Welcome to Zenobia’s Promise Foundation!

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Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is a Virginia-based nonprofit corporation and the philanthropic arm of the Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. For more than a century, Upsilon Omega has served the city of Richmond and its surrounding communities with a steadfast commitment to service and impact. The Foundation carries forward this legacy, honoring the vision and leadership of Zenobia Gilpin Henderson, who served as the chapter’s first president from 1925 to 1927.

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The mission of Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is to pursue educational and charitable initiatives that enrich the lives of citizens throughout the Richmond metropolitan area and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Through a diverse portfolio of programs, the Foundation addresses the needs of individuals across all ages and backgrounds, ensuring meaningful and lasting community impact.

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Central to its work is a strong emphasis on education and youth development. The Foundation promotes high academic achievement through scholarship opportunities while cultivating leadership skills through mentoring programs for middle school students. It also supports high school students as they navigate the transition to higher education, careers, or other post-secondary pursuits, helping to bridge critical gaps during this formative stage.

In addition, Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is dedicated to improving community health and well-being by raising funds for vital causes, including sickle cell research and breast cancer awareness and support. Looking ahead, the Foundation remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships, and deepening its engagement to better serve and uplift the community.

 

Kwanza S. Downs, Chairman

​​​​​​​​​​​Zenobia’s Promise Foundation