Omega Phi Beta

Omega Phi Beta (ΩΦΒ) is a sorority founded on March 15, 1989 at the State University of New York in Albany, New York by seventeen women of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. It is a member organization of National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO).

The sorority has undergraduate and alumnae chapters and colonies predominantly based on the East Coast. The organization has expanded into the Midwest, California, and South East in the recent years. The organization’s goal, as its motto ("Serving and Educating Through Our Diversity") implies, is to create an outlet for all women through its emphasis on multiculturalism. The organization also concerns community service and sisterhood. OPBSI is Latina-oriented, not Latina-based, further emphasizing its dedication to diversity.

Philanthropy

Omega Phi Beta concerns overcoming the injustices and oppression of women in society. It celebrates the success of past women, recognizes the accomplishments of women today, and promotes to uplift future generations. Recognizing that violence against women hinders progression, it has broadened the scope of its National Philanthropy to include all forms of violence affecting women, including but not limited to: domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual mutilation, stalking and human trafficking.^[1]

Through its broadened National Philanthropy, Raising Awareness of Violence Against Women, Omega Phi Beta will continue to dedicate themselves to community while making a commitment to women's rights. It believes that its partnership with Amnesty International (established June 2005) will assist this.^[2]

It has helped to raise over ten thousand dollars towards AIDS research and Domestic Violence Awareness initiatives,^[3] created youth mentoring groups such as S.O.U.L. (Steppin’ Off to Unite Latinas) and the Madrinas Program, created various scholarships such as the Reach For the Gold book scholarship, and was the first Latina sorority to participate in and win Step Correct, a traditionally NPHC competition (January 1, 2007).^[4]

Omega Phi Beta Foundation

Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) has been organized to operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. OPBF is a national, philanthropic organization concerning the providing of leadership, academic and community development opportunities, through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations concerned with advancing women’s rights.^[5] OPBF's mission is to implement and support initiatives for women and girls that strive to build a safe and equitable world for all via leadership and educational programs for communities nationwide. The organization was created in response to the ongoing need for role models and leaders in the community.

Awards & Recognitions

• RISC 2012 - 1st Place in Stepping, 1st Place in Strolling^[6]

References

• Omega Phi Beta homepage

External links

• http://www.omegaphibeta.org