By Kristen Hernandez
Pompano Beach – Guests got lei’d by alumni of Kappa Alpha Psi as they were welcomed to the League’s Mansion Luau Party at Sample-McDougald house last month. Locals came dressed in their finest Hawaiian-themed threads to celebrate the gift of education with the Kappa Foundation of Pompano Beach at a location steeped in historical significance.
It was the fraternity’s second annual reunion-like party to showcase the accomplishments of students. Residents witnessed aspiring Blanch Ely high schoolers receive life-changing scholarships.
“We need more events like this,” Willie Brown said, one of the original members of the Pompano Beach Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. “Our community has a void in its heart. We’ve been locked in with Covid and people needed to come out, exhale and breathe. We wanted to reach the heart of Pompano.”
Volunteers transformed the mansion’s manicured lawn into a Hawaiian retreat with a Pompano vibe. A clear blue sky hung over the mansion, gifting attendees with a gorgeous, inspiring day.
Brown, a self-proclaimed product of the first mentorship, stressed the importance of more brothers taking on the mentor roll. “Our mentorship teaches black men about legacy, perspective, and certain skills some kids can’t learn at home because they have no father. We give those kids support. Teach him how to tie a tie. Show them how to carry themselves as a black man in this society.”
Brothers who graduate typically return to Pompano and become mentors themselves. “My kids tell me, ‘If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here’,” Johnson said. “I tell them, no, if it wasn’t for you, you wouldn’t be here. They have to have it inside them.”
Each year, the Kappa Foundation grants scholarships, and provides tours of select universities. Brown’s message to kids is always the same. “Keep hope alive and believe in yourself.” Brown mentioned how during the early years of the mentorship, college participation rate was about 40 percent. Now, high school Kappa members’ college participation rate has soared to 100 percent and has held steady.
The luau at the historic Sample-McDougald mansion demonstrated that parties can be non-violent and have a purpose. “This was an encouraging, good day,” Brown said, smiling and swirling a fresh drink. “We spread education, and the bonus was happiness.”
To see their calendar of events, visit the Sample-McDougald house website.
The Kappa Foundation website offers a wealth of information, including a donate page and info about scholarship recipients. Visit https://kfpompano.org or call 786-262-7497.
