Psi Alpha Alpha Fraternity, Third District, Omega Psi Phi Inc., celebrated a week of service, recognition, and fellowship during the 2023 Achievement Week, observed throughout November. This mandated program underscores the fraternity's commitment to community uplift, recognizing individuals at both local and international levels who have made significant contributions. The week comprised diverse events, each leaving an indelible mark on the communities served.
Adopt-A-Highway Initiative (November 4, 2023):
On a chilly November morning, the Psi Alpha Alpha brothers embarked on a mission of community care. Hosting the first Adopt-A-Highway event of the 2024 Omega Year, the fraternity dedicated 1.5 hours to cleaning up Richmond Hwy (Route 1) and collecting seven trash bags. This initiative showcased the fraternity's hands-on commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Walt Whitman Middle School's Monthly Family Market (November 8, 2023):
Psi Alpha Alpha's commitment to community service extended to the Walt Whitman Middle School's Monthly Family Market. Approximately 172 family members were supported in this month's initiative, where brothers played a pivotal role in the logistics—unpacking, sorting, and assisting families as they selected food items. This event exemplified the fraternity's dedication to alleviating food insecurity and supporting local communities.
Quality Fellowship and Leisure at the Green Turtle (November 9, 2023):
In the spirit of brotherhood, Psi Alpha Alpha brothers gathered at the Green Turtle for Quality Fellowship and Leisure on November 9, 2023. The evening of camaraderie and Thursday night football provided a relaxed setting for bonding, reinforcing the importance of fostering strong connections among fraternity members.
2023 Achievement Week Brunch (November 11, 2023):
The pinnacle of the week was the 2023 Achievement Week Brunch hosted at the Mount Vernon Country Club. Attended by 150 patrons, including brothers, family, friends, and community leaders, the event featured an inspiring speech by Lieutenant General Bro. Xavier Brunson. His words echoed the week's theme, "Omega Men Promoting A Harmonious Future Through Friendship and Service." Brother Cornelius Beidleman (Omega Man of the Year), Brother Matthew Williams (Superior Service Award), Brother Bradford Caldwell (Founders' Lifetime Achievement Award), and Brother Malcolm Murray (Brigadier General Charles Young Military Leadership). Queenie Cox was also recognized as our Citizen of the Year. Baselius, Brother Myron McDaniel also recognized Brother(s) Maurice Cogdell, Larry Pratt, Michael Frazier, Farrell Duncombe, II, and Terrance Cooper for their outstanding contributions to the chapter.
November 17, 2023, Events:
Psi Alpha Alpha continued its philanthropic efforts by donating $250 in food gift cards to three organizations: Gum Springs Community Center, New Hope Housing, and Fort Belvoir Chapel. Simultaneously, in collaboration with the Bernie L. Bates Foundation, Inc., the chapter commenced its ninth year of the "Reading for Success" program at Riverside Elementary School. The Kickoff involved the distribution of 110 Royal Purple and Old Gold Backpacks, each filled with 27 books on various subjects. This program encourages reading among third-grade students, fostering a love for learning.
Approximately 25 brothers attended the Fraternity's Rededication Ceremony at Howard University, underscoring the significance of reaffirming their commitment to the principles and values of Omega Psi Phi.
Thanksgiving Meals at New Hope Housing's Kennedy Shelter (November 20, 2023):
The week concluded with a poignant act of service as Psi Alpha Alpha brothers supported New Hope Housing's Kennedy Shelter. They prepared and served Thanksgiving meals to needy families, offering warmth and sustenance during the holiday season.
In conclusion, Psi Alpha Alpha's 2023 Achievement Week was a multifaceted celebration of service, recognition, and fellowship. Through diverse initiatives, the fraternity demonstrated its unwavering commitment to uplifting communities, embodying the principles of friendship and kindness at the heart of Omega Psi Phi. The impact of this week-long endeavor resonates far beyond the events themselves, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change in the communities served.
