In order to recognize North Jersey organizations making a difference in the area, Assemblywoman Britnee N. Timberlake hosted her monthly “Hour of Power” event as part of her ongoing community empowerment series on Thursday.
Assemblywoman Timberlake began hosting this series as a way for local community members to gather and address any issues affecting the area while seeking out potential solutions. The first event was held one year ago in February 2019.
The monthly events take place at Assemblywoman Timberlake’s District Office in East Orange and are open to the public. In addition to speaking with residents, the Assemblywoman also uses the time to celebrate the success of local individuals and groups who have had an impact on Legislative District 34.
For African-American History Month, Assemblywoman Timberlake is celebrating the history and service of three Greek letter fraternities and sororities that create opportunities and spaces for African-American students on college campuses. Each of these organizations are members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, also known as the “Divine Nine,” with a history of service and other social action on behalf of the community.
The honorees are three local chapters that serve District 34:
- Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. – The Montclair Eta Pi Chapter, led by President Barry Devone, focuses on social action programs including youth mentoring, food distribution and holiday giveaways.
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – The Montclair Alumnae Chapter, led by President Paquita Mason, awards thousands of dollars in educational scholarships to young women in Essex County every year.
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. – The Chi Sigma Alumni Chapter, led by President George Darby, focuses on community service, scholarship and brotherhood.
“These local chapters of Greek letter organizations continuously make a difference in countless lives by uplifting their fellow community members,” said Assemblywoman Timberlake (D-Essex, Passaic). “From helping hard-working students acquire higher education to mentoring young people and providing them with the support they need, their exemplary contributions to our communities deserve recognition. My goal will be to recognize each organization from the Divine Nine throughout my term. This is just the start.”