The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region (AKA GLR) stands as a beacon of empowerment, service, and sisterhood within the historic sorority. With over 10,000 active members, the GLR represents a significant force for positive change in communities across the Great Lakes region.
Historical Roots and Foundation
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was founded in 1908 at Howard University by a group of forward-thinking young women who sought to unite collegiate women of color. The sorority’s mission statement, “To cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women, and to improve their social stature,” has guided the organization’s activities for over a century.
The Great Lakes Region was established in 1923, bringing together chapters from Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Since its inception, the GLR has played a pivotal role in addressing critical issues facing women and communities of color in the region.
Pillars of Service
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region focuses its efforts on four pillars:
- Educational Enhancement: The region provides scholarships, mentoring programs, and workshops to support students’ academic success and promote educational attainment.
- Health Awareness: The region conducts health screenings, educates communities about health disparities, and advocates for access to quality healthcare.
- Economic Empowerment: The region promotes financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and workforce development opportunities to help members achieve economic stability.
- Social Advocacy: The region addresses social justice issues, advocates for policy changes, and empowers members to be agents of positive change in their communities.
Initiatives and Impact
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region has implemented numerous initiatives to address the needs of communities it serves:
- Project Alpha: This initiative provides mentorship and support to young girls in underrepresented communities, helping them develop leadership skills and make informed decisions about their future.
- Ivy Aspire: This college access and success program helps first-generation and low-income students navigate the college application process and succeed in college.
- Leadership Development Institute: This program develops and enhances the leadership skills of members, preparing them to serve as effective change agents in their communities.
- Community Health Fairs: The region hosts free health fairs that provide screenings, vaccinations, and health information to underserved communities.
- Financial Literacy Workshops: The region conducts workshops to educate members and community members about financial management, credit building, and investment strategies.
Members and Leadership
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region boasts a diverse membership of accomplished women from various professions and backgrounds. These women are united by their commitment to service, sisterhood, and the advancement of women of color. The region is led by a strong and dedicated Executive Board that provides strategic guidance and support to chapters and members.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region collaborates with a wide range of organizations, including:
- Colleges and Universities: The region partners with colleges and universities to provide scholarships, mentoring programs, and other educational opportunities for students.
- Nonprofit Organizations: The region collaborates with nonprofit organizations to address social justice issues, provide health screenings, and empower underserved communities.
- Government Agencies: The region works with government agencies to advocate for policies that support the needs of women and communities of color.
- Businesses: The region collaborates with businesses to promote economic empowerment and provide job opportunities for members.
Impact and Recognition
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region has received numerous awards and recognitions for its outstanding service and impact on communities. In 2023, the region was recognized as the “Outstanding Great Lakes Region” by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The region has also been honored by the NAACP, the Urban League, and other organizations for its commitment to social justice and community empowerment.
Looking Towards the Future
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region is well-positioned to continue its legacy of service and empowerment. The region’s focus on education, health, economic empowerment, and social advocacy will continue to guide its initiatives and impact. With the continued dedication and leadership of its members, the GLR will remain a driving force for positive change in the Great Lakes region and beyond.
Scholarships and Grants
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region awards scholarships to deserving students pursuing post-secondary education. In 2022, the region awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to students from diverse backgrounds. The region also provides grants to support educational programs and initiatives that benefit women and communities of color.
Mentoring and Tutoring
The region’s mentoring and tutoring programs provide support to students from elementary school through college. Mentors help students develop academic skills, set goals, and navigate challenges. Tutors provide academic assistance in specific subjects, helping students improve their grades and confidence.
College Access and Success
The region’s college access and success programs help first-generation and low-income students prepare for and succeed in college. Programs include college application workshops, financial aid counseling, and college campus tours.
Health Screenings and Vaccinations
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region conducts free health screenings and vaccinations at community health fairs and other events. Screenings include blood pressure checks, cholesterol checks, blood glucose checks, and cancer screenings. Vaccinations include flu shots, pneumonia shots, and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Health Education and Advocacy
The region provides health education workshops and materials to educate communities about health disparities and promote healthy lifestyles. The region also advocates for policies that support access to quality healthcare for all.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
The region’s diabetes prevention and management programs provide education, support, and resources to help people with diabetes manage their condition and prevent complications. Programs include cooking classes, exercise programs, and support groups.
Financial Literacy Workshops
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region conducts financial literacy workshops to educate members and community members about financial management, credit building, and investment strategies. Workshops cover topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and avoiding predatory lending.
Entrepreneurship Development
The region’s entrepreneurship development programs provide training, resources, and support to help members start and grow their own businesses. Programs include business plan development, marketing strategies, and access to capital.
Workforce Development
The region’s workforce development programs help members develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workforce. Programs include resume writing workshops, job search strategies, and networking opportunities.
Voter Education and Registration
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Great Lakes Region conducts voter education and registration drives to increase voter turnout and empower members to participate in the political process. The region also advocates for policies that expand voting rights and protect the integrity of the voting process.
Public Policy Advocacy
The region advocates for policies that support the needs of women and communities of color. The region works with lawmakers to address issues such as education, healthcare, housing, and criminal justice reform.
Social Justice Initiatives
The region’s social justice initiatives address issues such as racial inequality, gender discrimination, and poverty. The region works to raise awareness about these issues, advocate for policy changes, and support organizations that are working to create a more just and equitable society.