From left: Rosalind Anderson, AKA Chapter-NAMI Tyler liaison; Mildred Witte, President, NAMI Tyler; Dr. Carolyn Harvey, Vice President/Programs, NAMI Tyler

Special to the Tyler Morning Telegraph

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, a Greek-lettered organization established in 1908 by African-American college women, continues to make a difference in the Tyler community with its exemplary programs.

As part of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s International Program Theme, Launching New Dimensions of Service, Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter promotes health awareness in three areas: Alzheimer’s disease, stroke and heart disease, and mental illness.

Mental health is being highlighted as members bring attention to mental illness among diverse populations. Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter has aligned locally with the Tyler Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), said Greta Moore-Dixon, chapter Ivy Leaf reporter/public relations.

Dr. Carolyn Harvey, vice president of NAMI Tyler, said concerned citizens wanting their voices heard about the stigma associated with mental illness founded NAMI Tyler in 1985.

NAMI is dedicated to building better lives for millions of Americans affected by mental illness. According to NAMI, mental illness impacts the lives of at least one in four adults and one in 10 children across the United States regardless of race, age, religion, or economic status.

“NAMI Tyler is grateful to Alpha Kappa Alpha for collaborating on this vital issue,” said Mildred Witte, president of NAMI Tyler. “They are a powerhouse of community leadership that ensures a successful effort.”

Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter has supported NAMI Tyler by participating in several mental health awareness activities. NAMI representatives along with sorority members, made contact with about 120 members of the community at Tyler’s Juneteenth celebration at Woldert Park, according to Rosalind Anderson, liaison between the chapter and NAMI Tyler. Information on mental health and local contacts for those seeking more information was distributed.

NAMI Tyler earlier this month also presented Sharing Hope, a one-hour overview of stigma issues and the need for better mental health awareness in the community. NAMI Tyler members are available for Sharing Hope presentations throughout the community in churches, community centers and civic arenas upon request.

Dr. Amber Cook, is the chairman of Target II: health promotion. Other Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority programs of service include Target I: educational enrichment; Target III: family strengthening; Target IV: environmental ownership; and Target V: global impact.

Rubye W. Kendrick is the president of Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter/Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.