Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Divine Nine Greek Organizations Causes, Community Service & Non-Profits Supported

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), commonly referred to as the "Divine Nine," comprises nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations that have played a pivotal role in advocating for social change, educational advancement, and community service within African American communities.

Historically Black Fraternity & Sorority Social Engagement

Each organization boasts a rich history of philanthropic initiatives and the establishment or support of various non-profit endeavors aimed at uplifting and empowering individuals across the nation. This guide delves into the causes championed by each of the Divine Nine organizations and highlights the non-profits they have created or supported.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Founded: December 4, 1906, at Cornell University
Mission: Leadership, academic excellence, and service.

Causes and Initiatives:

• "Go-to-High School, Go-to-College" Program – Provides young men with academic guidance and promotes the importance of education.

• "A Voteless People is a Hopeless People" – Focuses on voter education and registration to increase political participation.

Non-Profit Support:

Alpha Phi Alpha collaborates with organizations aligned with community upliftment and educational advancement.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Founded: January 15, 1908, at Howard University
Mission: Service to all mankind, focusing on education, health, and economic empowerment.

Causes and Initiatives:

• "Emerging Young Leaders" Initiative – Develops leadership skills in girls grades 6-8.

• Health and Wellness Programs – Addresses hypertension, diabetes, and mental health awareness.

Non-Profit Support:

• For Members Only Credit Union – The first sorority-operated banking entity promoting financial literacy.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Founded: January 5, 1911, at Indiana University Bloomington
Mission: Achievement in every field of human endeavor, with a strong focus on mentorship.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Guide Right Program – Includes Kappa League, focusing on academic achievement and leadership development.

Non-Profit Support:

Supports various mentorship and community service-focused non-profits.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Founded: November 17, 1911, at Howard University
Mission: Manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Fatherhood Initiative – Promotes responsible fatherhood and family support.

• Scholarship Programs – Provides financial assistance for underserved students.

Non-Profit Support:

Omega Psi Phi has invested in community centers for youth programs and mentorship initiatives.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Founded: January 13, 1913, at Howard University
Mission: Public service with a focus on the Black community.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Economic Development – Financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment programs.

• International Awareness – Advocating for global human rights and health disparities.

• Political Awareness – Civic engagement and voter education initiatives.

Non-Profit Support:

Delta Sigma Theta is the first Black Greek-letter organization to be named a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) at the United Nations.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Founded: January 9, 1914, at Howard University
Mission: Brotherhood, scholarship, and service.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Bigger and Better Business – Supports Black-owned businesses and economic development.

• Social Action – Focuses on voter education, social justice, and civic engagement.

Non-Profit Support:

Phi Beta Sigma has a constitutional bond with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., collaborating on various service projects.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Founded: January 16, 1920, at Howard University
Mission: Scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Z-HOPE (Zetas Helping Other People Excel) – A community outreach initiative focusing on health, education, and economic empowerment.

• Stork’s Nest – A collaboration with the March of Dimes to promote prenatal care and reduce infant mortality rates.

Non-Profit Support:

Zeta Phi Beta established the Zeta National Educational Foundation, Inc., providing scholarships and grants to students and communities in need.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Founded: November 12, 1922, at Butler University
Mission: Enhancing the quality of life through community service and education.

Causes and Initiatives:

• Project Reassurance – A program supporting maternal and child health education.

• Operation BigBookBag – Provides educational supplies to underprivileged students.

Non-Profit Support:

Sigma Gamma Rho partners with USA Swimming to promote water safety and swimming proficiency in minority communities.

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Founded: September 19, 1963, at Morgan State University
Mission: Building a tradition, not resting upon one, with a focus on community involvement.

Causes and Initiatives:

• I-S.H.I.E.L.D. Program – Supports military veterans and their families.

• The National Iota Foundation – Provides scholarships and community support initiatives.

Non-Profit Support:

Iota Phi Theta has established national partnerships with various community organizations, supporting initiatives related to social justice, economic empowerment, and youth mentorship.

Conclusion: How the NPHC Helps the Community

The Divine Nine organizations have played an integral role in shaping communities through their commitment to service, education, economic development, and social justice. Each fraternity and sorority does more than just wear Greek Paraphernalia, they continue to uphold their legacy by creating and supporting non-profit initiatives that have a lasting impact on society. Whether through mentorship, financial literacy programs, health initiatives, or scholarship opportunities, these organizations remain dedicated to uplifting African American communities and beyond.