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Welcome to Zenobia’s Promise Foundation!
As the Chair of Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, I have the privilege of leading our more than 250 members as we work toward our vision of being a gateway for the enrichment of the lives of our citizens. This vision is consistent with the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Sorority Incorporated®: To be of service to all mankind.
Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, which received it’s 501(c)(3) designation in March 2020, is the philanthropic arm of the Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Upsilon Omega is a chapter with a rich and distinguished history of service that spans more than 95 years. The Foundation is named in honor of Zenobia Gilpin Henderson, who served as the first president of the Upsilon Omega Chapter from 1925 to 1927.
The mission of Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is to pursue educational and charitable projects that will enrich the lives of citizens in the Richmond metropolitan area as well as the Commonwealth of Virginia. This mission is accomplished through a variety of programs, but most notably through five signature projects: Scholarships, Future Young Leaders, The Debutante Project, Shoe Bank, and Luncheon in Honor of Mothers. We look forward to having an even greater impact in the community with additional projects.
I am extremely grateful for the vision and leadership of those sorors who served on the Task Force and Initial Board. They worked tirelessly to complete the groundwork upon which the current Board will continue to build. Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is committed to providing invigorating and impactful service for years to come.
Josefa Bethea-Wall , Chair
Zenobia’s Promise Foundation
EMPOWERING YOUNG
WOMEN
for over a century
Providing youth scholarships and events.
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EVENTS
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OUTREACH
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SCHOLARSHIPS
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Welcome!
Welcome to Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on empowering communities through meaningful partnerships and transformative initiatives. In proud collaboration with the Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, we are committed to driving positive change in education, economic development, health and wellness, and global outreach.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, Zenobia’s Promise Foundation provides scholarships to students pursuing higher education and implements programs that uplift individuals and families. Whether advancing financial literacy, supporting health equity, or promoting cultural enrichment through the arts, our impact reaches both local neighborhoods and global communities.
We invite you to join us—whether as a program participant, volunteer, or donor. Together, we can fulfill the promise of lasting impact and empowered futures.
Latest News
Bridging Purpose and Promise: Uplifting Communities Through Philanthropy, Sisterhood, and Service
An overview of Zenobia’s Promise programs, community initiatives, and its collaborative efforts with other foundations and local partners.
From Legacy to Leadership: The Story Behind Zenobia’s Promise and Its Vision for a Brighter Tomorrow
An origin story highlighting Zenobia’s inspiration, the foundation’s roots, and the leaders shaping its future.
Carrying the Torch: How Zenobia’s Promise Foundation is Empowering Generations Through Service and Scholarship
A feature on the foundation’s mission, community impact, and its ongoing commitment to educational and economic uplift.