August Connected Voices

Organizations within the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), composed of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities, play a significant role in supporting young children and their families. 

Often referred to as the "Divine Nine", they represent over 2.5 million members with chapters in every major U.S. city and deep connections to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Black churches.  

Organizations included in the NPHC are: 

 • Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 

 • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 

 • Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. 

 • Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 

 • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 

 • Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 

 • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., 

 • Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 

 • Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.   

These organizations focus on educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and community service projects that aim to improve the well-being of children and their families.  

For instance, they offer tutoring and literacy programs that enhance children's academic skills, and they host workshops for parents that emphasize the importance of early childhood education and positive parenting techniques. 

Members of these organizations have been a part of every major movement for social change in modern U.S. history.  

Although each organization articulates its own programs and initiatives, they are bound by a shared commitment to community uplift, engagement and empowerment.  

NPHC organizations also strengthen parent-child relationships by fostering environments where families can bond through educational and recreational activities. 

Programs often include family-focused events that encourage parents to be actively involved in their children's learning and development.  

By providing resources and support, these organizations help parents understand how to better communicate with and nurture their children, ultimately leading to stronger, more supportive family dynamics. 

These organizations also continue to be the community leaders who promote family empowerment and social justice campaigns.   

SCHIMA's Professional Development Director, Amaris Gibson, is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 

In July, she had an opportunity to attend the sorority's 71st Annual Boule. Here's how she describes the experience:

"Having an opportunity to stand with near 19,000 women who shared the mission of our founders, to devote ourselves to service to all mankind, was palpable and exhilarating!     

"The opportunity to hear from Vice President of the United States and 2024 Presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, who is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was unforgettable.  

"Witnessing her account of our sorority's prestigious history and being charged with greater civic responsibility reenergized me with a renewed commitment to serving young children and their families of South Carolina."    

Livell Paul, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant for SCIMHA, was also in attendance. Here she shares her experience:    

"Attending Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.'s 60th Biennial Boule in Houston, Texas, was an incredible experience, made even more memorable by the opportunity to see Vice President Kamala Harris in person.  

"Her discussion on women's maternal health and well-being resonated deeply, especially when considering the parallels to infant mental health.   

"As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho, I was inspired by her dedication to improving the lives of women and children, recognizing the profound impact that maternal health has on the future of our youngest generations."   

A big thank you to Amaris and Livell for sharing their knowledge and experience with the Divine Nine. To learn more about the history and impact of the Divine Nine, click here.