FOUNDATION NEWS
2026 MLK Day Celebrations
During the observance of MLK's Day of Service, Ivy Foundation members delivered a total of 125 hygiene purses to the Second Chance Last Opportunity in Sarasota, FL and the Manatee County Girls Club in Bradenton, FL.
On January 17th, the Ivy Foundation members proudly participated in the annual @manateecount Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade, celebrating unity, sisterhood, and service. 💚💗
With spirited cheers, smiles, festive music, and sweet treats, we helped uplift the community and brought joy to families and children lining the 2-mile parade route—honoring Dr. King’s legacy through togetherness and sisterly love in action. ✨ Thank you to all the chapter members and community partners who donated and came out to celebrate and commemorate the holiday weekend.
On January 16th in celebration of the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. , the Ivy Foundation members attended the MLK Banquet at IMG Academy and on January 19th, attended the MLK Breakfast at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex. Both events were held in Sarasota.
Members Celebrate 118 Years of Service during AKA Founders' Day Celebrations
On January 18th, The members of The Ivy Foundation concluded our Founders’ Day Celebration Week by gathering in worship and sisterly fellowship at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Palmetto. We extend heartfelt gratitude to Reverend Ron Shipp and his lovely wife, Sister Lena, for their gracious hospitality and spiritual guidance. Lambda Omicron Omega Chapter's President, Theresa Scott, delivered powerful and eloquent remarks highlighting Alpha Kappa Alpha’s 118-year legacy of service, emphasizing the enduring bonds of sisterhood that unite us, strengthen our purpose, and propel our commitment to uplifting the communities we serve—now and for generations to come. During his inspiring sermon, Rev. Shipp spoke to the importance of intentionality, encouraging us to reach back and lift others during times of uncertainty. He reminded us that Alpha Kappa Alpha women are called to serve, chosen to lead, and sent to shine—a message that resonated deeply with chapter members.
Thank you to all of the members who joined us for worship and the fellowship brunch. It was a meaningful and memorable way to close another remarkable Founders’ Day celebration while also honoring the legacy and life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A very special thank you and heartfelt shoutout to members Tafara Callaway-Ackerman, Lucia Callaway, Sonya Sanders, Mae Ethel Johnson, Jacky Jones, and Theresa Scott for thoughtfully organizing and hosting such a wonderful brunch experience.
On January 15th, the members of The Ivy Foundation came together in sisterhood and service by packing hygiene kits to uplift and empower your females in our community all while celebrating 118 years of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. providing service to all mankind. Service is our legacy, and sisterhood is our strength.
2025 "Soaring Into Wellness" Health Expo
Our Soaring into Wellness Health Expo was amazing! A huge thank-you to all the vendors who showed up for our community — offering free health screenings, mental health support, financial planning help, and so much more. We couldn't have done it without our incredible committee, volunteers, and supporters. You're helping our community soar into better health!
Pinkies, Ivies, Denim & Pearls Cabaret
On October 11th, the Ivy Foundation Incorporated, in partnership with the Lambda Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated hosted Pinkies, Ivies, Denim & Pearls, one of our signature events! This was more than just a party; it was a celebration of purpose and community! Over 150 guests helped us party with a purpose!
Father - Daughter Dance
The Ivy Foundation, Inc. , in partnership with Lambda Omicron Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, held its annual Father - Daughter Dance on June 28th at the Palmetto Boys & Girls Club.
We would like to thank everyone who support this unforgettable event! Because of your presence and generosity, we're able to do more than just host a magical evening. The funds raised will directly support our Scholarship Program, help provide nutritious meals to food-insecure children through our Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP™) Program, and strengthen a variety of community services and events throughout the year. Your involvement makes a difference - not just on the dance floor, but in the lives of those who need it the most!
Fish Fry Friday
The Ivy Foundation, in partnership with Lambda Omicron Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, hosted a fish fry fundraiser on Friday, May 30th. We are deeply grateful to everyone in the community who came out to support us! Your generosity and presence made the event a tremendous success! Every penny raised goes directly toward fulfilling the mission of the Ivy Foundation, Inc. - from providing scholarship awards to graduating seniors to feeding children through our Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP) program and supporting a variety of other impactful service and community events. Together, we're making a difference - and we couldn't do it without you! Thank you for standing with us!
2025 Ivy Foundation Scholarship Presentation to Recipients
Congratulations to our 2025 Ivy Foundation Scholarship Recipients. The recipients are: Avari Nicole Forbes (Southeast High School); DeMari McClendon (Palmetto High
School); Destyne Leverett (Bayshore High School); DiVianna Lee (Booker High School); Faith Williams (Southeast High School); Jolissa Allen (Sarasota High School); Mari Smith (Palmetto HIgh School; MaLeah Lowe (Manatee High School); Marisa Von Bender (Booker High School) and Zorianna Torres (Sarasota High School).
2025 Senior Luncheon - "Oh, The Places You Will Go"
The Ivy Foundation, in partnership with Lambda Omicron Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., hosted its annual Senior Luncheon on Sunday, March 16th.
Our 2025 scholarship applicants are: Avari Nicole Forbes (Southeast High School); DeMari McClendon (Palmetto High School); Destyne Leverett (Bayshore High School); DiVianna Lee (Booker High School); Faith Williams (Southeast High School); Jolissa Allen (Sarasota High School); Mari Smith (Palmetto HIgh School; MaLeah Lowe (Manatee High School); Marisa Von Bender (Booker High School) and Zorianna Torres (Sarasota High School).
Ivy Foundation Members Start the New Year With CHIPP
The members of The Ivy Foundation started the new year off right by providing "Power Packs" to the children of Manatee and Sarasota counties.
MLK Day of Service
The members of The Ivy Foundation honored the
life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by distributing CHIPP Power Packs to the Palm View K-8 School.
Ivy Foundation Members Deliver HOPE to Hope Family Service
LaTanya Edwards, President of The Ivy Foundation, Inc., alongside the Generation Next Committee and member Ivory Gordon, delivered 55 "Blessing Bags" to Hope Family Service. We are grateful to serve others and make a difference while uplifting our local community!
