HISTORY
Chartering Legacy
In alignment with the visionary philosophy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, six dedicated women—Clara Vesta Caldwell, Ida Taylor Jones, Bertha Mosely Lewis, Eva Overton Lewis, Geraldyne Hodges Major, and Helen Kathleen Perry—gathered on November 5, 1922, at 5200 South Wabash in Chicago, Illinois, under the leadership of Supreme Basileus Loraine Richardson Green. United in purpose and sisterhood, they established Theta Omega Chapter, the eighth graduate chapter of our beloved sisterhood. This moment marked the beginning of an illustrious legacy—one that continues to uplift, lead, and serve.
Our History Through the Decades
1920s
Laying the Foundation
In its formative years, Theta Omega Chapter focused on survival, exploration, and service. Signature accomplishments included awarding scholarships to exceptional high school graduates, hosting Soror Marian Anderson’s first Chicago recital at Orchestra Hall in 1929, launching local artist showcases, and initiating a Vocational Guidance Project that later grew into a national model.
1930s
Expanding Community Impact
The chapter deepened its commitment to youth and community programs. The vocational guidance program evolved into a week-long initiative. Fundraising events like the Christmas Day Breakfast Dance began in 1930, allowing Theta Omega to increase scholarships and support vital national projects such as the Mississippi Health Project and the Nonpartisan Council.
1940s
Strengthening Civic Engagement
Theta Omega significantly increased its visibility and community contributions, awarding over $4,200 in scholarships. Members guided high school seniors on career paths and organized essay contests to promote civic education, especially around the work of the Nonpartisan Council.
1950s
Health & Youth Services
This era saw a major expansion in health and social outreach. The chapter launched a Mental Health Program for adolescents, provided physical exams for young students, and addressed issues like sickle cell anemia and support for unwed mothers.
1960s
Social Justice & Advocacy
The 1960s marked a shift toward social justice and community advocacy. The chapter hosted seminars on the Black Revolution that covered education, arts, and politics, while also spreading awareness about sickle cell anemia. Services for unwed mothers were offered, and the chapter became the first Black organization to donate blood to the hemophilia fund.
Theta Omega Through the Years
A Legacy of Excellence
Our History Through The Decades (continued)
1970s
The Golden Years of Service
The 1970s ushered in a new era of energy and leadership. The chapter implemented a two-year sickle cell education initiative across Chicago schools, colleges, and churches, while also launching job fairs, cultural programming, and tutoring projects. Members co-sponsored major art exhibits at Chicago Public Library branches and trained as special voter registrars and poll watchers, cementing the chapter’s role in civic engagement.
1980s
Building Institutional Legacy
The 1980s marked the establishment of the AKArama Foundation, Inc. in 1981, providing the chapter with a nonprofit structure for greater impact. Signature programs included the Decade 80s Leaders Program for youth, the Adopt-A-School partnership with CPS, and the Teens Perspective Project, which addressed challenges faced by local high school students. The chapter also expanded its involvement in the arts and civic programs, deepening its cultural influence.
1990s
Expanding Educational Outreach
By the 1990s, the chapter’s programming reached new heights. The first scholarship luncheon was held in 1989 to honor recipients and their families. Members organized food and book drives, supported UNCF fundraisers, and initiated F.A.M.E. (Families as Mentoring Entities) in 1994, an after-school program that served more than 600 families over a decade. These efforts reflected a growing investment in both academic success and family empowerment.
2000s
A New Century of Service
The new millennium began with recognition as one of nine Ivy Reading Academy sites in 2003, advancing literacy in elementary schools. In 2007, the chapter celebrated the opening of its multimillion-dollar AKArama Community Service Center, a hub for health fairs, financial literacy programs, voter education, and cultural events that continue to serve the Woodlawn community and beyond.
2010s
Global & Local Impact
Throughout the 2010s, the chapter built on its strong foundation by expanding its health, education, and social justice initiatives. Programs included the Emerging Young Leaders initiative, global projects to fight hunger and poverty, and local services such as the Internet Café for seniors, free legal aid consultations, and a community lecture series in partnership with the University of Chicago.
2020s
Continuing the Legacy
In the current decade, Theta Omega remains committed to enhancing the quality of life through service and sisterhood. With programs in scholarships, health awareness, college readiness, economic empowerment, and global service, the chapter continues to be a transformative force in Chicago and a leader in the broader community.