91st Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Mid-Western Regional Conference Hosted Virtually Through Host City, Des Moines, Iowa By Rhonda Harris On March 19-21, 2021 hundreds of women from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Magnificent Mid-Western Regions eight states took part in their 91st Mid-Western Regional Conference. Although due to the pandemic the members could not convene in person, they were able to hold the conference virtually out of the host city of Des Moines. With the theme of “Northbound Express: Celebrating Our Spirit Of Excellence” they were able to carry out their business through plenary sessions, workshops, community service activities, and sisterly interactive celebrations, that would prepare attendees to take back the knowledge they gained, to continue their work of serving and building stronger communities. The highly successful and inspiring events were under the leadership of Regional Director, Twyla Woods-Buford, and coordinated by a host committee, chaired by local resident, Mary Chapman, which demonstrated excellence and outstanding teamwork. AKA members attended from Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Wyoming, and Nebraska. At every regional conference the members are able to leave the city where it is hosted a little better off by providing generous donations through their community service projects. A total of 470 pairs of new and gently worn shoes to support the international service project Soles4Souls and 154 pairs of eye glasses that were distributed to the area Lions Club were collected. In addition members of the community took part and helped families in need during this pandemic, by making monetary donations to the COVID-19 Relief Full Cart online virtual food bank project. A total of $1,827 was donated. Lastly a goal was set to raise $10,000 for AKA National Educational Advancement Foundation. Through the efforts of an online auction and additional individual donation, the goal was surpassed. The Public Program “Working Stronger Together As A Community” streamed on Friday night via Facebook and You Tube was appropriately steeped in meaningful tradition and a powerful and moving celebration. From the virtual color guard and singing of the Black National Anthem, to the captivating performance of the The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2021 43
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