Creating opportunities for young people to advance their education is one of the bedrocks upon which Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority was founded 103 years ago, declared Carolyn House Stewart, international president.

Inspired by this core mission, Alpha Kappa Alpha -- as a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council - is answering the call and joining forces with the United Negro College Fund to engage in a friendly competition with other NPHC member organizations. The goal is to raise monies so seniors at UNCF-member colleges will have the funds to complete their education and graduate.

The competition will take place during the broadcast of the UNCF-sponsored “An Evening of Stars® Tribute to Chaka Khan.” The program is titled “The UNCF Campaign for Emergency Student Aid” (CESA). The goal to raise $250,000 to support recession-impacted, graduating seniors who need to pay off balances for tuition, books and room and board before they can receive their diplomas. To achieve this mission, UNCF is asking organizations to galvanize their members, supporters and auxiliary around raising monies for the effort. Click here to view the UNCF CESA flyer.

In accepting the challenge, Stewart noted that while this is a competition among the fellow NPHC members, the ultimate winners are the students.

“Any venture that eases students' financial burdens so they complete their education without the stress of worrying about securing the funds needed to graduate, is a blessing,” assessed Stewart.

In reflecting on CESA's value, Stewart said the program is a classic example of a win/win/win.

“The organizations win, the UNCF wins and the students are the ultimate victors,” she stated.

Proclaiming that Alpha Kappa Alpha will win the contest, Stewart urged Alpha Kappa Alpha's 260,000 members in 955 chapters worldwide to contribute $10 by texting UNCF AKA to 50555. Individuals can text up to $30 per cell phone monthly billing cycle as part of the "Text to Donate" component of the fundraising effort. Again, the goal is to raise $250,000.

Click Here to view a video appeal from Carolyn House Stewart to aid in our campaign.

To learn more, visit www.aneveningofstars.org and click on the Campaign for Emergency Student Aid icon; or contact Christal Cherry, UNCF National Director, Alumni, Groups & Faith Partnerships at (404) 302-8623, for answers to questions about the UNCF- National Pan-Hellenic Council partnership.