In 2019, the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorproated Centennial Commission, and International Z-HOPE™ Team met bi-weekly to brainstorm how Zeta would leave a lasting footprint in Washington, D.C., during its Centennial Celebration in June of 2020.
Various regions, states, chapters, auxiliaries, and individuals would donate to help Zeta meet the goal. During the donation process, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and the sorority had to pivot. They selected the Z-Pack It Up Z-HOPE™ Program to deliver 10,000 backpacks to the School District of Washington, D.C. Although plans to celebrate and make in-person donations were altered, Zeta was determined to ensure that the School District of Washington, D.C., had a lasting impact.
The International Z-HOPE™ Team worked with the D.C. Public Education Fund, D.C. Equity Fund, and the School District of Washington, D.C., to determine the district’s greatest need since the onset of the pandemic. After months of meetings and collaboration, Zeta agreed to fund Outdoor Learning Pods at the schools in Washington, D.C., with the most underserved Black and Brown children. In all, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorproated donated $89,000 to ensure these Outdoor Learning Pods were completed and ready for the 2021-2022 school year, demonstrating that Zeta remains the number one service organization in the United States.