President Comforts Members and All Iowans Ravaged by Floods
Degree of devastation to determine Sorority's course of action
In an impassioned outreach to members affected by the floods in Iowa, President Barbara A. McKinzie offered much-needed comfort to the three chapters in the state impacted by the devastation. They include Iota Zeta Omega, Eta Tau and Tau Psi Omega in Iowa City.
Through an account from Andrea Smith of Iota Zeta Omega, McKinzie reported that:
- The Birdland neighborhood of Des Moines is under water as a result of a levee breach and those who work in the downtown area have been evacuated, including Andrea and her husband. However, the river has crested and downtown was spared much damage.
- Cedar Rapids is totally under water and residents are running out of drinking water. The river has crested, but it will be several days before the water recedes.
- The University of Iowa campus in Iowa City is partially flooded. Several members of Tau Psi Omega Chapter live in Cedar Rapids. Efforts to reach them have been unsuccessful because power lines and cell phones are down.
McKinzie said she will direct regional director Vickie Miles-LaGrange to monitor the situation and to funnel information on this disaster to the Corporate Office so Alpha Kappa Alpha can provide updates and determine the flood-relief strategy to pursue.
Meanwhile, McKinzie urged members in Iowa to make a special effort to reach those members of the chapter affected by the flood and to provide comfort. She asked all members to uplift them in prayer during this difficult time.
McKinzie assured those devastated by the tragedy that Alpha Kappa Alpha will be there for them. She said that this helping hand underscores the Sorority's resolve to help in a time of crisis. It is also an extension of the Sorority's core mission: "to provide service to all mankind."