The Gamma Tau Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority is involved in a variety of programs. The goal of these programs is to promote African American businesses and prepare individuals for economic independence, encourage African American youth in their academic pursuits, support teen and disadvantaged mothers, and celebrate African American culture. Below see a brief description of many of the programs in which Gamma Tau supports.
Black History Month
Black History Month programs are observed during the month of February. These programs bring awareness to individuals in African American history, as well as, the contributions African Americans have made to the American way of life.
Business Month
Business Month programs are observed during the month of April. These programs showcase local businesses, and focus on business training and economic independence.
Career Exploration
The Career Exploration Program engages in activities to broaden youths’ awareness of the breadth of employment opportunities, and the academic or technical requirements necessary to attain specific careers.
Dorothy Marie Ellison Scholarship
Scholarships are awarded annually to youth applicants locally, regionally and nationally. The local scholarship, the Dorothy Marie Ellison Scholarship gives awards to high school seniors as well as adults returning to complete their education.
Founder's day
Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. was founded in 1929. Founder’s Day celebrates the establishment of the Sorority and pays homage to our founder, Lola Mercedes Parker. The Sorority seeks to 1) unite in a sisterhood qualified business and professional women, 2) promote increased interest in business education among young women in high school and college through planned programs and scholarships, 3) encourage leadership development through educational opportunities, and 4) establish and promote civic and social service activities for youth and adults.
Iota Mothers Assistance Program
The Iota Mothers Assistance Program is an outreach service to meet the needs of teen and disadvantaged mothers. These services include activities such as tutoring, interviewing skills, financial planning, networking, employment opportunities, and scholarships.
National Education week
The American Education Week programs stress the educational aims of the Sorority. The programs honor educators and promote academic excellence.
Outstanding Business Woman of the Year- Gamma Tau Chapter
The Lola M. Parker Achievement Award, synonymous with the name of the Sorority’s founder, is the highest award given by the Sorority and is presented to a woman selected because of her total involvement in and commitment to community service.
Outstanding Soror of the Year- Gamma Tau Chapter
The Mahala S. Evans Award is given to a Sorority member who has contributed most to the Sorority during the previous two years by virtue of: 1) involvement in local, regional, and national programs and projects of the Sorority; and 2) involvement in community activities.
Scholarship auction and Luncheon
Gamma Tau Chapter supports the academic endeavors of youth and adults returning to school through the Dorothy Marie Ellison Scholarship. The Chapter raises money for this scholarship primarily by hosting a Luncheon and Auction. All proceeds from the auction go directly to the Scholarship fund.
Tutorial
The Sorority desires to motivate youth, especially in urban or disadvantaged areas, which are lacking some of the basic academic skills, and therefore struggle scholastically. The Chapters in the Sorority throughout the country conduct tutorial programs designed to assist these students to bring their academic skills to the level needed to be successful educationally and professionally.
Toys "U" Can't Return (TUCR)
Toys U Can’t Return is a program designed to help educate youth in local communities about the challenges of pregnancy at an early age. The local chapter sponsors workshops and activities designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle and increase self esteem.