The Carolinian Newspaper

Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter Marks 12th Year Supporting WRAL Coats for the Children Day of Giving
2025-11-12 - 2025-12-31 | NC
Raleigh, NC — The Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., together with the Beta Lambda Sigma Charitable Foundation, proudly announces its 12th consecutive year participating in the annual WRAL Coats for the Children Day of Giving, benefitting The Salvation Army. As temperatures drop and winter approaches, the chapter remains steadfast in its commitment to helping keep children across the Triangle warm.
“For many families, a winter coat is more than a necessity – it’s security, comfort, and relief,” said Celeste Brown, President of the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter. “We are honored to continue this annual tradition of service and to support children who need us most.”
Thousands of children in the region lack proper winter gear, and community support is essential. All proceeds collected by the Beta Lambda Sigma Charitable Foundation go directly to WRAL Coats for the Children.

How to Support:
Tax-deductible donations may be made at https://www.raleighsgrho.org/blscf.
Select “Donate” and designate your gift to “Coats for the Children.”
Tune In:
Join WRAL or visit WRAL.com on December 19 at 6:00 AM as the ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. kick off this year’s telethon in support of the campaign.
For more information about Beta Lambda Sigma’s community efforts, visit www.raleighsgrho.org.

ABOUT
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated (ΣΓΡ) was organized on November 12, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seven young educators. This organization was founded on and continues to be steadfastly committed to the tenets of excellence in Scholarship, Sisterhood and Service. Sigma Gamma Rho has welcomed more than 100,000 collegiate and professional women from every profession. The sorority has more than 500 chapters around the world. Sigma Gamma Rho has a proud legacy of providing positive and proactive community leadership and support as indicated by the sorority’s international slogan, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” For more information, please visit sgrho1922.org.

Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter was chartered on December 10, 1949, by teachers dedicated to educating youth in their community in Raleigh, North Carolina. The chapter consists of retired and active members in education, healthcare, business, mental health, media, marketing, city government, and more. Beta Lambda Sigma Raleigh Alumnae Chapter supports the national programs of the sorority, including Operation BigBookBag, Swim 1922, Project Cradle Care, and Youth Symposium. For more information about the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter, please visit https://www.raleighsgrho.org/.

Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Launches 2026 Greater Impact Scholarship
2026-01-29 08:00 - 2026-03-29 17:00 (America/New_York) | NC
Raleigh, NC — The Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in partnership with the BLS Charitable Foundation, is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 Greater Impact Scholarship, an initiative designed to support and empower young women pursuing higher education. The Greater Impact Scholarship is open to young ladies graduating from high school in Wake County who plan to enroll in a four-year college/university or a community college beginning Fall 2026. This scholarship reflects the chapter and foundation’s collective commitment to educational advancement, leadership development, and service within the community.
Eligible students are encouraged to apply beginning January 29, 2026, at 12:00 a.m. Applications must be submitted no later than March 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Interested applicants can apply by scanning the QR code on promotional materials or by visiting https://bit.ly/BLSGreater26.
Through the Greater Impact Scholarship, the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter and BLS Charitable Foundation continue their missions of fostering academic excellence and creating meaningful opportunities for future leaders. They look forward to supporting the educational journeys of deserving students across Wake County.
For additional information or questions regarding the scholarship, please visit the chapter website, follow the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and BLS Charitable
Foundation on social media, or contact scholarship@raleighsgrho.org.
ABOUT
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated (ΣΓΡ) was organized on November 12, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seven young educators. This organization was founded on and continues to be steadfastly committed to the tenets of excellence in Scholarship, Sisterhood and Service. Sigma Gamma Rho has welcomed more than 100,000 collegiate and professional women from every
profession. The sorority has more than 500 chapters around the world. Sigma Gamma Rho has a proud legacy of providing positive and proactive community leadership and support as indicated by
the sorority’s international slogan, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” For more information, please visit sgrho1922.org.
Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter was chartered on December 10, 1949, by teachers dedicated to educating youth in their community in Raleigh, North Carolina. The chapter consists of retired and active members in education, healthcare, business, mental health, media, marketing, city government, and more. Beta Lambda Sigma Raleigh Alumnae Chapter supports the national programs of the sorority, including Operation BigBookBag, Swim 1922, Project Cradle Care, and Youth Symposium. For more information about the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter, please visit https://www.raleighsgrho.org/.
BLS Charitable Foundation (BLSCF) serves as the charitable arm of the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Established in 2020, BLSCF is a 501(c)(3) organization and is the primary funder of Beta Lambda Sigma’s service programs which focus on youth empowerment, health and wellness, and educational enrichment. BLSCF also provides scholarships to deserving and exemplary college-bound high school seniors and continuing college students in North Carolina.

Claim Your Power-Own Your Political Voice
2026-02-19 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-26 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-03-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Watts Chapel, 3703 Tryon Road, Raleigh, 27606, United States
We invite you to register for Claim Your Power: Own Your Political Voice, an upcoming event hosted and sponsored by Watts Chapel Political Awareness Ministry. This event equips people of faith and conscience to turn what matters to them into influence—and belief into impact.
When you register, please also complete the accompanying survey. This is more than a form; it is a declaration that your voice matters. Together, we ensure that our collective voices—not political convenience or powerful insiders—shape what comes next.
This is a moment that calls for courage, clarity, and commitment.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter to Host “Know. Protect. Defend.” Program for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
2026-04-04 14:00 - 16:30 | 5857 Barwell Park Dr., Raleigh, NC 27610, 5857 Barwell Park Dr., Raleigh, NC, 27610, United States
Raleigh, NC — April 4, 2026 — The GREATER women of the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. will host Know. Protect. Defend., a community program focused on
raising awareness of sexual assault on Saturday, April 4, 2026, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
This impactful event is designed to educate, equip, and encourage meaningful conversations that help participants identify sexual assault and learn strategies to protect themselves. The program will
feature a panel discussion with representatives from the Special Victims Unit of the Raleigh Police Department, WakeMed, and InterAct, offering expert insight into prevention, advocacy, and available community resources.
Following the panel discussion, attendees will participate in a self-defense class led by LaShonda Hopkins, providing practical techniques to help women strengthen their personal safety and
confidence.
The event is open to women ages 18 and older.
Event Details
Event: Know. Protect. Defend. – Self-Defense Program
Hosted by: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter
Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
Location: 5857 Barwell Park Dr., Raleigh, NC 27610
Tickets: $15 (space is limited)
Register here:
https://www.raleighsgrho.org/event-details/know-protect-defend-self-defense-class
“As women dedicated to service and empowerment, the GREATER women of the Beta Lambda Sigma chapter remain committed to creating spaces that educate and uplift our community,” said Celeste Brown, Basileus. “Know. Protect. Defend. will provide participants with knowledge, resources, and practical tools to help protect themselves and support survivors.”
Through initiatives like this, the Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter continues to advance Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s mission of community service, education, and advocacy throughout the Raleigh area.
ABOUT
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated (ΣΓΡ) was organized on November 12, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seven young educators. This organization was founded on and continues to
be steadfastly committed to the tenets of excellence in Scholarship, Sisterhood and Service. Sigma Gamma Rho has welcomed more than 100,000 collegiate and professional women from every
profession. The sorority has more than 500 chapters around the world. Sigma Gamma Rho has a proud legacy of providing positive and proactive community leadership and support as indicated by
the sorority’s international slogan, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” For more information, please visit sgrho1922.org.

Wake County Public Libraries Hosts Juneteenth Engagement Event for New Southgate Community Library
2026-05-19 17:00 - 21:00 | John Chavis Memorial Park, 505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Raleigh, NC, 27601, United States
RALEIGH, N.C. — Wake County Public Libraries will host a second community engagement pop-up event as part of Juneteenth celebrations, inviting residents to contribute input on the development of the new Southgate Community Library.
The event will be held on June 19, 2026, from 5–9 p.m. at John Chavis Memorial Park (505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27601).
This engagement opportunity allows Southeast Raleigh residents to share their ideas for programs, services and design elements that will shape the future library. Community input remains a central component of the planning process, ensuring the new facility serves as a valuable and responsive resource.
A digital survey is also available for those unable to attend in person, accessible via QR code on promotional materials.
For more information, please refer to the official announcement from Wake County Public Libraries.

Wake County Public Libraries Hosts Community Pop-Up for New Southgate Community Library at Montague Plaza
2026-05-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Montague Plaza, 2718 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, NC, 27610, United States
RALEIGH, N.C. — Wake County Public Libraries, in partnership with its design team, invites Southeast Raleigh residents to participate in a community engagement pop-up event to help shape the future of the new Southgate Community Library.
The event will take place on May 24, 2026, from 1–4 p.m. at Montague Plaza (2718 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, NC 27610).
Community members are encouraged to share their ideas, priorities and vision for the new library, including desired programs, services and building features. Feedback gathered will play a key role in guiding the design and development of a space that reflects the needs of the Southeast Raleigh community.
Residents who are unable to attend in person may also provide input by completing a digital survey available via QR code on promotional materials.
For more information, please refer to the official announcement from Wake County Public Libraries.

Reclaiming Our Legacy | Town Hall
2026-06-01 08:00 - 17:00 | John Chavis Memorial Park, 505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Raleigh, NC, 27601, United States
A Blueprint for Liberation and Black Economic Empowerment, a powerful town hall meeting bringing togeth

KCSSU presents Reclaiming Our Legacy: A Blueprint for Liberation and Black Economic Empowerment, a powerful town hall meeting bringing together scholars, organizers, educators, media leaders, and community voices for an afternoon of dialogue, strategy, and collective empowerment.
This community-centered event will explore critical conversations around reparations advocacy, economic empowerment, international policy, and building sustainable systems that strengthen Black communities locally and globally.
Attendees will hear from dynamic speakers and panelists discussing topics including Ghana’s Resolution to the United Nations, economic self-determination, cultural unity, financial literacy, and community organizing.
Featured speakers and moderators include William Darity Jr., Dwayne Bobbitt, Dr. Kimberly Muktarian, Brother Minister Allen X, Brother Ausar Amen, and Brother Escents Devine.

Wake County Hosts Landfill Study Session in Wake Forest
2026-06-02 17:00 - 19:00 | NC
WAKE FOREST, N.C. — Wake County is inviting residents to attend a community information session on June 2 as part of the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study, a long-term planning effort focused on identifying future waste disposal solutions for one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing counties.
The drop-in session will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest. Community members may arrive at any time during the event to learn more about the study, ask questions, and provide feedback.
The South Wake Landfill currently serves more than 1.2 million Wake County residents and is projected to reach capacity between 2040 and 2045. County officials launched the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study to evaluate long-term waste management options before the facility reaches the end of its operational life. Potential options under consideration include developing a new landfill, transporting waste to regional facilities, constructing a waste-to-energy facility, or exploring emerging disposal technologies.
County leaders say community input will play a critical role in shaping future decisions. Through a series of public meetings and online engagement opportunities, residents are encouraged to share their priorities regarding environmental impacts, public health, sustainability, cost, and long-term community needs.
The June information session is one of several meetings being held across Wake County throughout the month.
Residents can learn more about the study and provide feedback online through Wake County’s Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study initiative.

Fuquay-Varina Residents Invited to Landfill Study Meeting
2026-06-04 17:00 - 19:00 | NC
FUQUAY-VARINA, N.C. — Wake County will host a public information session on June 4 as part of the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study, giving residents an opportunity to learn more about future waste disposal planning and share their input.
The session will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Southern Regional Center, 130 N. Judd Parkway NE, Fuquay-Varina.
Wake County is conducting the study to determine how the county will manage waste after the South Wake Landfill reaches capacity in the coming decades. Officials are evaluating multiple disposal options and seeking community feedback to help guide future recommendations.
Residents can stop by anytime during the event to speak with county representatives, review information, and provide comments on the future of solid waste management in Wake County.
Additional information is available through Wake County’s Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study initiative: www.wake.gov/BeyondtheSWLF

Collective Impact Conference to Bring Anti-Human Trafficking Advocates Together at Campbell University
2026-06-16 09:30 - 17:00 | Campbell University, 143 Main Street, Buies Creek, NC, 27506, United States
BUIES CREEK, N.C. — Community leaders, service providers, educators, advocates, and concerned citizens will gather June 16 for the Collective Impact Conference, a one-day event focused on strengthening North Carolina’s response to human trafficking through collaboration, education and strategic action.
Hosted by the North Carolina Coalition Against Human Trafficking (NCCAHT), the conference will take place at Campbell University’s Oscar N. Harris Student Union Ballroom A, located at 143 Main Street in Buies Creek.
The conference theme, “When We Unite, Our Impact Multiplies,” highlights the importance of partnerships among organizations, government agencies, service providers and community members working to prevent trafficking and support survivors.
The event will feature keynote speaker Kirkia Yarbough Smith, a nationally recognized consultant and survivor-centered systems change advocate. Smith has more than 20 years of experience dedicated to strengthening services and creating systemic solutions for vulnerable populations.
Attendees will have opportunities to hear statewide updates, participate in strategy-focused discussions and connect with organizations providing resources and support throughout North Carolina.
Conference sessions include:

Registration and networking
Welcome remarks
Statewide reports
Collective Impact Framework presentation
Lunch and exhibitor expo
Strategy session
Service provider panel
Advocacy and strategy panel
Closing remarks

Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., with programming continuing through 5:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
Tickets start at $20 and include lunch.
The North Carolina Coalition Against Human Trafficking works to strengthen statewide efforts to prevent human trafficking, support survivors and promote collaboration among organizations dedicated to addressing exploitation and abuse.
For more information or to register, visit www.nccaht.org/conference.
About NCCAHT
The North Carolina Coalition Against Human Trafficking is a statewide organization committed to fostering collaboration, education and advocacy efforts that combat human trafficking and support survivors throughout North Carolina.

Zebulon Session Seeks Input on Wake County Waste Planning
2026-06-18 17:00 - 19:00 | NC
ZEBULON, N.C. — Residents of eastern Wake County are invited to attend a public information session on June 18 regarding the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study.
The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon.
The study is examining long-term options for handling the county’s waste once the South Wake Landfill reaches capacity. County officials are engaging residents throughout Wake County to gather input on environmental, economic, and community considerations that should help shape future decisions.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the planning process, ask questions, and provide feedback during the drop-in session.
Wake County encourages residents to participate and help inform decisions that could affect waste management services for decades to come.

Cary Hosts Public Landfill Study Information Session
2026-06-23 17:00 - 19:00 | NC
CARY, N.C. — Wake County will continue its countywide public engagement effort with a Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study information session on June 23.
The drop-in event will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Academy Pavilion at Downtown Cary Park, 327 S. Academy Street, Cary.
The study seeks to identify sustainable, long-term waste disposal solutions for Wake County as population growth continues and the South Wake Landfill approaches its projected capacity. Residents are encouraged to review study information, discuss priorities with county staff, and share feedback about future waste management strategies.
Community input gathered during these sessions will help inform recommendations presented to county leaders as the planning process moves forward.

Raleigh Meeting Continues Wake County Landfill Study Outreach
2026-06-25 17:00 - 19:00 | NC
RALEIGH, N.C. — Wake County residents are invited to attend the final June information session for the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study on June 25.
The session will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Walnut Creek Wetland Center (Neuse Room), 950 Peterson Street, Raleigh.
The Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study is a comprehensive effort to determine how Wake County will manage solid waste in the future as the current landfill nears the end of its operational lifespan. Officials are evaluating a range of disposal alternatives and are seeking feedback from residents across the county.
Residents attending the session can learn more about the study, ask questions, and provide comments that will help shape future recommendations regarding waste disposal, environmental stewardship, and community priorities.
For more information, residents may visit the Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study webpage and participate in the online engagement process.

CVMSDC’s BOC26 Invites Small Businesses To Envision A Future Built On Innovation, Access and Collaboration
2026-08-02 12:00 - 2026-08-04 15:00 | The Westin Raleigh Durham Airport, 3931 Macaw Street, Raleigh, NC, 27617, United States
As the business landscape accelerates toward a future shaped by artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and rapidly shifting market demands, the CarolinasVirginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC) is calling on small businesses and corporate partners to prepare for what comes next.
That call to action will take center stage August 2–4, 2026, when CVMSDC hosts its 49th annual Business Opportunity Conference (BOC26), sponsored by Allstate, at The Westin Raleigh Durham Airport. The threeday gathering is designed not only as a conference, but as a catalyst—an immersive experience where small businesses, minority business owners, corporate partners, government agencies, and community partners converge to build relationships, exchange ideas, and chart a shared path forward.
The theme, Futurism, challenges attendees to look beyond the present moment and imagine the next era of supplier development, innovation, and economic opportunity. The event is positioned as a threeday experience designed to connect business owners with major corporate partners, government agencies, and industry leaders who are ready to do business, emphasizing that it is where “the right people, the right conversations, and the right opportunities all come together.”
This year’s agenda reflects that ambition. From a VIP Welcome Reception and Scholarship Swing Golf Tournament to handson workshops, a Freedom Park tour, the Business Connections Roundtable, and the annual CVMSDC Awards Reception, BOC26 blends education, inspiration, and meaningful engagement. Multiday activations such as The Launch Point will offer curated resources and realtime support for business owners seeking to strengthen their capabilities and competitiveness.
CVMSDC President & Chief Engagement Officer Dominique Simpson Milton underscores the urgency of preparing for the future now. “Futurism requires more than imagination—it requires alignment. As the business landscape and technology evolve with unprecedented speed, small businesses and corporate partners must move forward together with shared purpose,” Milton said. “When our goals are connected, supplier development becomes a powerful engine for resilience, sustainability, and longterm economic growth. BOC26 is where we prepare for what’s next—by building the relationships that will shape the future of business.”
CVMSDC Board Chair Jonathan Wilkins, supplier diversity program executive at Presidio, said, “Small businesses bring agility, creativity, and thought leadership—qualities that corporations need now more than ever in this rapidly evolving business landscape. When CVMSDC corporate partners and SBEs align their goals, together, we’ll unlock a powerful system of shared success and prosperity. BOC26 is not just about preparing for the future, it’s about shaping it together.”
For nearly five decades, CVMSDC has championed economic inclusion through its four pillars: advocacy, certification, connections, and development. BOC26 continues that legacy, serving as one of the Council’s most impactful platforms for strengthening supplier development and expanding opportunities for small businesses and certified Minority Business Enterprises across the region.

Sigma Gamma Rho to Host Operation BigBookBag Backpack Giveaway
2026-08-15 10:00 - 12:00 | SAFEchild, 2841 Kidd Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27610, United States
The Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. will host its annual Operation BigBookBag Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 15, from 10 a.m. to noon at SAFEchild, 2841 Kidd Road, Raleigh.
More than 300 backpacks filled with school supplies will be distributed to area students on a first-come, first-served basis, helping families prepare for the upcoming school year. The drive-through community event is held in partnership with the Beta Lambda Sigma Charitable Foundation, SAFEchild, the National Black MBA Association, and the University of Phoenix Raleigh Alumni Chapter.

Operation BigBookBag is one of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s National Essential Programs, providing educational resources and school supplies to children across the country while promoting academic success and student achievement.
The Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter, chartered in Raleigh in 1949, has served the community for more than 75 years through programs focused on education, youth development, health, and community service.
For more information, visit www.raleighsgrho.org.
