The PEARL Foundation, Inc.

Link to the Application: Board of Directors Bio Form 

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta
Omega Chapter will offer several academic scholarships to advance the education of African
American females who are graduating seniors any Cobb County or Marietta City public or
private high school for the 2022-23 academic year.

Applicants for ALL scholarships must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an African American female who resides in Cobb County
• Must attend a Cobb County public or private high school or Marietta High School
• Must be in the graduating class of 2023
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a virtual panel interview in March 2023

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend the 2023 Skills Development Workshop
presented by Rho Zeta Omega Chapter scheduled for Saturday, January 28, 2023. This
Workshop will provide applicants with key information to effectively complete the
application and prepare for the interview portion of the process. Additionally, we will
provide experiential breakout sessions covering Interviewing Skills (both virtual and in-
person), Best Social Media Practices, Professional Attire, and Resume and Essay Writing.
Those who plan to attend the Skills Development Workshop must RSVP at
pzoscholarship@gmail.com with your name, school, and cell phone number no later
than Wednesday, January 25, 2023.
Please note that the Skills Development Workshop is not required but is strongly
encouraged! For additional information contact The Scholarship Committee at pzoscholarship@gmail.com.

Click on Link Below:

2022-2023 Scholarship Application

November 29, 2022 is Giving Tuesday. GAgives is the state of Georgia's biggest giving movement! Help The PEARL Foundation raise $5000! Please make a tax-deductible donation in support of our scholarship fund and our community service programs.

Click on the link: https://www.gagives.org/organization/The-Pearl-Foundation-1 or go to GAGives.org and search "The PEARL Foundation, Inc."

 #GivingTuesday2022 #ThePEARLFoundationGA

7th Annual
Dashing Through The Square 5K Run/Walk
and Kids 1K Rudolph Race
December 17, 2022

Join the PEARL Foundation Inc, as we dash through historic Marietta Square for a holiday 5K Walk / Run, and Kids 1K Rudolph Run. Dashing Through the Square is a Peachtree Qualifying Race featuring electronic chip timing to ensure accuracy for runners. This family friendly race will take you past beautiful, historic homes and the quaint shops that line Marietta Square. Not in Marietta, GA but you want to participate? Join our Virtual 5K! Proceeds from this event will support youth enrichment programs and other community initiatives benefiting Cobb County.

The race is sponsored by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Register for the Race Here >>>> 7th Annual Dashing through the Square 5K

• Must be an African-American female who resides in Cobb County
• Must attend a Cobb County public or private high school or Marietta High School
• Must be in the graduating class of 2022
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a panel interview in March 2022.

6th Annual
Dashing Through The Square 5K Run/Walk
and Kids 1K Rudolph Race
December 18, 2021

Join the PEARL Foundation Inc, as we dash through historic Marietta Square for a holiday 5K Walk / Run, and Kids 1K Rudolph Run. Dashing Through the Square is a Peachtree Qualifying Race featuring electronic chip timing to ensure accuracy for runners. This family friendly race will take you past beautiful, historic homes and the quaint shops that line Marietta Square. Not in Marietta, GA but you want to participate? Join our Virtual 5K! Proceeds from this event will support youth enrichment programs and other community initiatives benefiting Cobb County.

The race is sponsored by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Race Registration Link:  6th Annual Dashing Through the Square 5K Run/Walk; Kids 1K

If you are interested in becoming a Sponsor for this year's event, please click below for Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship Opportunities: 6th Annual Dashing Through the Square 5K Sponsorship Form

The PEARL Foundation Inc. in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. Rho Zeta Omega Chapter is now accepting applications for the 2021-2022 #CAP Program. 
 
#CAP, the abbreviation for College Application Process, is Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Signature program for 2018-2022. This program is designed to assist high school students with navigating the college application process through a step-by-step approach (STEPP) that will empower students with the knowledge needed to achieve a bright, prosperous future. STEPP stands for:
 
SEARCH: Seeking and finding the right-fit college, scholarships and funding

TEST: Preparing, scheduling and taking required tests such as ACT, SAT, PSAT, etc.

EVALUATE: Evaluate the schools and scholarships to develop an individual short list

PAPERWORK: Assist with development, completion and submission of applications, essays, financial aid forms, letters of recommendation and other required materials

POSITIVE OUTLOOK: Keep a positive attitude to be optimistic about future opportunities

To participate in the #CAP program, successful applicants must meet the following requirements:

* High school Junior or Senior during the 2021-2022 school year
* Reside within Cobb County
* Attend a high school located within the county of Cobb
* Possess a strong desire to attend a college after high school
* Able to attend #CAP meetings once a month (usually the 4th Sunday of the month)
* Ready and willing to put in the WORK to achieve the goal

Complete and submit the #CAP application no later than June 1, 2021

Scan the QR Code below for more information and to apply: 

2020 - 2021 Scholarship Application 

The PEARL Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for Georgians by providing education initiatives that promote self-reliance, self-empowerment and self-determination. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, the first African American Greek letter sorority, was founded on a mission comprised of five basic tenets that have remained unchanged since the sorority’s inception more than a century ago. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s mission is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind". The international sorority has grown to over 1,000 undergraduate and alumnae chapters focusing on academic excellence and community service. The PEARL Foundation Inc. collaborates with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega chapter to sponsor programs serving the Cobb County/Marietta, Georgia community.

In keeping with one of our basic tenets which is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, The PEARL Foundation, Inc., and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter will offer several academic scholarships to advance the education of African American females who are graduating seniors of Cobb County or Marietta City high schools for the upcoming academic year.

There are TWO scholarship categories. There will be MULTIPLE AWARDS given for The PEARL Foundation scholarship category and ONE scholarship given for the The Mae Carter Danzy Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Scholarship category. If you plan to apply to an HBCU, we encourage you to write an essay for BOTH scholarships. An applicant is only eligible to receive one scholarship award, to be determined by the Scholarship Committee.

1) The PEARL Foundation Scholarship

There will be multiple awards in this category. These scholarships will be awarded to applicants who will attend ANY four-year college or university. Please submit a PEARL essay regardless of what college or university you consider attending.

2) The Mae Carter Danzy Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who will attend a Historically Black College or University. Mrs. Danzy was the person who led the vision of chartering Rho Zeta Omega in Cobb County and served as the chapter’s first president. She was a proud graduate of Spelman College (1970) and Clark Atlanta University (1972). Please submit an HBCU essay if attending an HBCU is a consideration.

Applicants for both scholarships must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an African American female who resides in Cobb County
• Must attend a Cobb County public or private high school or Marietta High School
• Must be in the graduating class of 2021
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a virtual panel interview in March 2021.

 For additional information contact The Scholarship Committee at pzoscholarship@gmail.com.

5^th Annual
Dashing Through The Square Virtual 5K Run/Walk
and 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race
December 5 - 19, 2020

After last year’s festive fun, this year’s 5th Annual Dashing through the Square 5K and 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race will be back, however, it will be virtual due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. This family friendly event is just in time for the holidays, so join us! Proceeds from this event will support youth enrichment programs and other community initiatives benefiting Marietta, GA and Cobb County, Georgia. This race is sponsored by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Rho Zeta Omega Chapter.

What is a Virtual Race?

1. A virtual race is designed to be 'raced' from ANY LOCATION at ANY TIME!
2. You can run, jog or walk through streets, parks or trails in your neighborhood/community or even on your treadmill. Map out your 5K route or 1K route (for kids) and that will be your course.

How Does it Work?

1. Register as an individual or team
2. You can set a fundraising goal to help support the programs conducted by The PEARL Foundation (optional).
3. Plan your 5K route or 1K route (for kids)
4. Download and print off your race bib
5. Run or Walk the DTTS 5K or 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race between December 5, 2020- December 19, 2020. Just be sure to complete your race by December 19, 2020 at 11:59 PM EST.
6. Racing against friends? Want to contend for a medal? Track your race by downloading the Runkeeper App or utilize your favorite wearable tracker. Upload your results here
7. READY, SET, RACE!
8. Share your race: Post photos of you racing and tag us utilizing the hashtags on social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) #PZODASH2020 #PEARLDASH2020 #RhoZetaOmega

All 5K race participants will receive a high-quality runner's t-shirt ,a commemorative medal and key chain. Special medals will be presented to 1st & 2nd place male and female finishers in the following age groups: 13 and under, 14-30, 31-50, 51 & above. Medals will awarded based on all times uploaded (RunKeeper/wearable tracker) by December 19, 2020 at 11:59 PM EST. Award medals will be MAILED to all winners.

Register here -> 5th Annual Dashing Through The Square Virtual 5K Run/Walk and 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race December 5 - 19, 2020

Each race registration includes an RaceRoster.com processing fee.

If you are interested in being a Sponsor for the 5^th Annual Dashing Through The Square Virtual 5K Run/Walk and 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race
December 5 - 19, 2020 please click on the following link:

Becoming a Sponsor :  5^th Annual
Dashing Through The Square Virtual 5K Run/Walk and 1K Kids Virtual Rudolph Race
December 5 - 19, 2020 Sponsorship Information

The PEARL Foundation, Inc., in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter  awarded $37,500  in scholarships to 11 high school seniors from Cobb County at its 31st   Annual Scholarship Recognition on June 6, 2020.

The scholarship recipients, the schools from which they graduated, and the colleges they will be attending are as follows:

• Ann-Marie Abunyewa, Wheeler High School, Yale University
• Kennedy Camp, South Cobb High School, University of Georgia
• Chloe Campbell, Campbell High School, Oglethorpe University 
• Olivia Green, Walton High School, University of Florida
• Erin Grier, North Cobb High School, Spelman College
• Jessica Hairston, South Cobb High School, Vanderbilt University
• Gabrielle Jones, Hillgrove High School, Kennesaw State University
• Audrey McNeal, Harrison High School, Barnard College
• Midori Jenkins, Campbell High School, University of Georgia
• Rorah Ndungu, Kennesaw Mountain High School, Georgia State University
• Camille Trotman, Campbell High School, Georgia Institute of Technology

Nearly 100 people participated in a virtual celebration for the graduates, including Cobb School Board Chair Brad Wheeler and board members Charisse Davis, Dr. Jaha Howard, and Randy Scamihorn. South Cobb High School Principal TJ Perry and counselor Deadra Freeman also joined the virtual celebration.

“It always a pleasure and honor to be here. You have done an outstanding job academically,” Wheeler said. “My wish is for you to be successful.” Dr. Howard encouraged the recipients to pay it forward and to “look forward to the day when you can contribute to someone’s education.”

Scamihorn echoed this sentiment: “I hope you can take the baton that all of us have carried. Don’t give up. There will be peaks and valleys in your life. Hopefully, you can improve where we are and make the world a better place.”

Principal Perry added, “When they talk to young people, they say you are the future. You are the present. You matter now. You have a voice. You are important and we look forward to all the great things you’re going to do this from this point forward.”

This year’s speaker was Anya Bazzell, MD, MPH, MS. She shared her story of academic success – earning multiple advanced degrees – as well as challenges, such as failing medical licensing exams after multiple attempts.

She was dismissed from medical school but successfully appealed the decision. Dr. Bazzell also utilized a test-taking strategist and passed her exams.

“We don’t talk enough about failure,” she said. “I had excelled and done everything in my power to prepare for success. I am sharing my story with you today because I wish that, at the age of 17, someone would have sat me down and said, you are not exempt from the struggle.”

Dr. Bazzell encouraged the recipients to have a plan but to be flexible and to have a strong support system. Also, she advised them that if they struggle with test taking, to manage it now.

“I’m proud of each and every one of you,” she said. “Never give up on what God has called you to do.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first African American Greek-letter sorority, was founded on a mission comprised of five basic tenets which has remained unchanged since its inception in 1908. The international sorority has grown to over 1,000 undergraduate and alumnae chapters focusing on academic excellence and community service. 

For the past 32 years, Rho Zeta Omega members have served the Cobb County community. The chapter works in tandem with The PEARL Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as the philanthropic arm of the chapter.

Scholarships are awarded annually to African American females in the senior class.  Applicants must reside in and attend a Cobb County high school, have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership, and completed several hours of community service. The chapter awarded its first scholarship in 1989. To date, Rho Zeta Omega has awarded over $387,000 in scholarships to Cobb County high school seniors.  

Angela Sumbry, Rho Zeta Omega president, said, “We are excited about the future and the changes you will bring to our world.” Rhonda Robinson, vice president, added that the awarding of these scholarships “has been a beacon of love for more than 30 years in Cobb County

The PEARL Foundation Inc. in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. Rho Zeta Omega Chapter is now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 #CAP Program. 
 
#CAP, the abbreviation for College Application Process, is Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Signature program for 2018-2022. This program is designed to assist high school students with navigating the college application process through a step-by-step approach (STEPP) that will empower students with the knowledge needed to achieve a bright, prosperous future. STEPP stands for:
 
SEARCH: Seeking and finding the right-fit college, scholarships and funding

TEST: Preparing, scheduling and taking required tests such as ACT, SAT, PSAT, etc.

EVALUATE: Evaluate the schools and scholarships to develop an individual short list

PAPERWORK: Assist with development, completion and submission of applications, essays, financial aid forms, letters of recommendation and other required materials

POSITIVE OUTLOOK: Keep a positive attitude to be optimistic about future opportunities

To participate in the #CAP program, successful applicants must meet the following requirements:

* High school Junior or Senior during the 2020-2021 school year
* Reside within Cobb County
* Attend a high school located within the county of Cobb
* Possess a strong desire to attend a college after high school
* Able to attend #CAP meetings once a month (usually the 4th Sunday of the month)
* Ready and willing to put in the WORK to achieve the goal

Complete and submit the #CAP application no later than June 15, 2020  

Interested applicants may submit the #CAP application in one of the following ways by typing in  bit.ly/akacap20 in the applicant’s web browser.

If there are any questions, please email PZOCAP@gmail.com.

Thanks to everyone that participated in the 4th Annual Dashing Through the Square 5K/Kids 1K/Virtual Race on December 21, 2019. 

The overall race results for all timed runners/walkers can be located at the following link:

Dashing through the Square 5K -December 21, 2019: Overall Race Results

Look for information soon on the 2020 Dashing Through the Square 5K.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first African-American Greek-letter sorority, was founded on a mission comprised of five basic tenets which have remained unchanged since our inception in 1908. The international sorority has grown to over 760 undergraduate and alumnae chapters focusing on academic excellence and community service. Locally, the Rho Zeta Omega chapter serves the Cobb County/Marietta, Georgia community. 

In keeping with one of our basic tenets which is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, the Rho Zeta Omega chapter along with its philanthropic arm, The PEARL Foundation, Inc., will offer several academic scholarships to advance the education of African American females who are graduating seniors of Cobb County or Marietta City high schools for the upcoming academic year. 

There are TWO scholarship categories and multiple awards will be given, BUT an applicant is only eligible to receive one scholarship award, to be determined by the Scholarship Committee. Interested students may apply for scholarships in one or both of the following categories.

1)  The PEARL Foundation Scholarship

There will be multiple awards in this category. These scholarships will be awarded to applicants who will attend ANY four-year college or university.

2)  The Mae Carter Danzy Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who will attend a Historically Black College or University.  Mrs. Danzy was the person who led the vision of chartering Rho Zeta Omega in Cobb County and served as the chapter’s first president.  She was a proud graduate of Spelman College (1970) and Clark Atlanta University (1972).

Applicants for both scholarships must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an African-American female who resides in Cobb County
• Must attend a Cobb County public or private high school or Marietta High School 
• Must be in the graduating class of 2020
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a panel interview in March 2020.

Applications must contain:

• Completed online application
• Resume
• Headshot 
• High school transcript (uploaded by the school to pzoscholarship@gmail.com)
• ACT (composite score) and/or SAT (total score)
• Two letters of recommendation (completed by school official, church/community leader)
• Signed Acceptance Statement
• Signed Certifications page
• A 500-word essay on the topic (s) in the scholarship application. The essay must be double-spaced, using 12-point Times New Roman Font.  If you are applying for both scholarships, you must submit two separate essays.  An applicant is only eligible to receive one scholarship award, to be determined by the Scholarship Committee.

A completed application and supporting materials must be uploaded by 11:59 pm, Wednesday, February 26, 2020.  NO EXCEPTIONS!

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a Skills Development Workshop presented by Rho Zeta Omega Chapter scheduled for Saturday, February 1, 2020.  Those who plan to attend must RSVP at pzoscholarship@gmail.com with your name and cell phone number no later than Saturday, January 25, 2020.  More information on the workshop along with the time and location will be announced.

Click below to obtain a copy of the 2019-2020 PEARL Scholarship Application Packet

2019-2020 PEARL Scholarship Application Packet

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. is celebrating its 10th Anniversary!!

Join the Foundation in the celebration by donating in Multiples of 10 on October 10, 2019.

Donations to The PEARL Foundation are tax-deductible!

Click here to Donate!

September 28, 2019

A Midday Rhapsody of Art & Soul

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter will host the signature fundraising event in support of the scholarship fund and other Cobb County community programs.

Plan to join us at the Mason Fine Art Gallery as we salute the Harlem Renaissance through music, fashion and art.  

Purchase your ticket today by clicking the following link:

A Midday Rhapsody of Art & Soul- September 28, 2019 Ticket Link

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter will host the third annual health fair on September 21, 2019.  The health fair will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Fair Oaks Recreation Center located at 1465 W. Booth Road Ext. SW, Marietta, Ga.  30008.

Bring your friends and family for a variety of service offerings such as vitality checks, health screenings, information on Alzheimer’s disease, stroke and heart disease, mental illness and women’s health and wellness.  Bring your expired medicines for safe disposal. 

The health fair is open to all communities, however, attendees are encouraged to RSVP via email at pzohealthfair@gmail.com.  We look forward to you joining us for this community event.

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter awarded $30,000 in scholarships to eight Cobb County high school seniors at its annual scholarship reception.  The reception was held on Saturday, May 4, 2019, at Zion Baptist Church, Marietta, Ga. 

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

• Paris Berrian, Campbell High School
• Leslie Cohen, Hillgrove High School
• Skyler Hillery, South Cobb High School
• Jameia Mitchell, Pebblebrook High School
• Ayana O’Brien, Marietta High School
• Kween Simmons, Marietta High School
• Sydney Stuart, Allatoona High School
• Amira Walker, North Cobb High School

Recipients are selected based on academic achievements, community service, and leadership positions held in their school and community.  They must also complete an interview with members of the scholarship committee.                                                                                                                                            

Special guests included Brad Wheeler, Cobb County School Board – Post 7, Vice Chairman, Robin Dowdy, Assistant Principal, Pebblebrook High School and Leza Aldridge, Counselor, North Cobb High School.  Anya Bazzell, Doctor of Medicine Candidate, Morehouse School of Medicine, served as the keynote speaker.  As a fourth-year medical student and former PEARL scholarship recipient, she delivered inspiring words to the graduating seniors.  She stated, “the failures and disappointments in my life make the winds of success so much sweeter.”                                                         

The chapter awarded its first scholarship in 1989. To date, Rho Zeta Omega has awarded nearly $350,000 in scholarships to Cobb County high school seniors.   This year marks the inauguration of the Mae Carter Danzy HBCU Scholarship.  This scholarship is awarded to a student who will attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to complete her post-secondary studies.  Mrs. Danzy, who died in 2018, was a Rho Zeta Omega charter member and served as its first president.  She was also a graduate of Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University.  Miss Skyler Hillery received this award and will attend Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, FL.                                                                              

Gloria Nichols, The PEARL Foundation president, said, “The PEARL Foundation celebrated its 10^th anniversary this year, thanks to the generosity and support of its sponsors and community partners who have sustained the foundation to remain a viable charitable organization in our community.”

Angela Sumbry, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter president commented, “we are extremely proud of the 2019 scholarship recipients who will be matriculating to prestigious colleges and universities across the country and we wish them success in all of their future endeavors.”

The public is invited to “Got Wealth? Let’s Get Your House in Order!” on April 27, 2019
from 11AM to 1PM at the East Cobb Government Center. This free workshop is hosted by the
Rho Zeta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in conjunction with The PEARL
Foundation, Inc.
The program will be divided into two parts. First, Ashley Karim-Kincey will share her expertise
as a Realtor and provide guidance on how to purchase a home. Second, investors Drew and
Ashley Dixon will share information on purchasing real estate as a way to accumulate wealth.
This program is a tenet of “Building Your Economic Legacy,” one of the sorority’s international
program targets for 2018-2022. AKA chapters across the globe are developing community
programs designed to emphasize financial planning, asset accumulation, and wealth building.
“Got Wealth?” is the second program in this series. More than 20 participants attended a
credit repair and monitoring workshop on March 30. Financial operations analyst Undriss
Miller, MBA, provided an interactive learning experience and educated everyone on best
practices for personal finance.
Angela Sumbry, Rho Zeta Omega chapter president, said, "Our chapter is proud to offer these
free workshops for the community. We encourage everyone to attend this informative event.
You can ask questions and get the resources you need to improve your financial wellness.”
This event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be available; registration is
highly encouraged. East Cobb Government Center is located at 4400 Lower Roswell
Road, Marietta, GA 30068. For more information and to register, visit
Eventbrite.com at Let's Get Your House in Order

Join us on December 21, 2019 for the Fourth Annual “Dashing through the Square 5K Race”

through Historic Marietta, Georgia

You can register here:        Dashing through the Square 5K Race

Can’t make it to Marietta, Ga?  No worries, we’ve got you covered!  This year’s event includes a 5K, a Virtual 5K and the 1K Rudolph Run.  The race is a Peachtree Qualifying Race and features electronic chip timing to ensure accuracy for all runners. 

Proceeds from this event will support the scholarship fund and other community initiatives benefitting Cobb County.  We have awarded over $350,000 in scholarships to high school seniors in Cobb County. 

The race is sponsored by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. and the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Check out photos from the 2018 DTTS 5K:  DTTS 2018 Photos

The members of The PEARL Foundation, Inc. are pleased to have served Cobb County for the past 10 years!  The foundation has funded $400,000 in community service activities and volunteered with several organizations such as MUST Ministries and the Hollydale Food Pantry. In conjunction with the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the foundation has awarded over $300,000 in scholarships to Cobb County students matriculating to colleges and universities throughout the United States.  At a recent anniversary celebration, members came together to reflect on many of the highlights of the foundation:

2012 recipient of the Creating Community Award from the Cobb County Board of Commissioners and the Cobb Community Relations Council in recognition of community service in Cobb County.

2012 recipient of a proclamation from the City of Powder Springs, Georgia in recognition of the Emerging Young Leaders mentoring program at Tapp Middle School. 

2016 recipient of the MCS Angels Award from Marietta City Schools for the Kids Club after school program at Park Street and Lockheed Elementary Schools.

2016 Cobb Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Partner in Education and induction into the Partner in Education Hall of Fame.

Partnered with Home Depot to build an outdoor playground and sensory garden at Park Street Elementary.  Also partnered with Home Depot to revitalize playgrounds at the MDE School, Lockheed Elementary, and Sedalia Park Elementary.

The members of The PEARL Foundation, Inc. are committed to the next 10 years of providing scholarships and community initiatives to the residents of Cobb County.

Thank you to all race participants and race sponsors for making the 2018 Dashing Through the Square 5K on December 15, 2018 a big success.

Please click the on the link below to see some pictures from the race.

2018 Dashing Through the Square 5K Photos

Save the Date for the 2019 Dashing Through The Square 5K! It will be held on

Saturday, December 21, 2019. We hope to see you there!

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first African-American Greek-letter sorority, was founded on a mission comprised of five basic tenets which has remained unchanged since our inception in 1908. The international sorority has grown to over 760 undergraduate and alumnae chapters focusing on academic excellence and community service. Locally, the Rho Zeta Omega chapter serves the Cobb County/Marietta community.

In keeping with one of our basic tenets which is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, the Rho Zeta Omega chapter along with its philanthropic arm, The PEARL Foundation, Inc., will offer several academic scholarships to advance the education of African American females who are graduating seniors of Cobb County or Marietta City high schools for the upcoming academic year.

There are TWO scholarship categories and multiple awards will be given, BUT an applicant is only eligible to receive one scholarship award, to be determined by the Scholarship Committee.

Interested students may apply for scholarships in one or both of the following categories.

1) The PEARL Foundation Scholarship

There will be multiple awards in this category. These scholarships will be awarded to applicants who will attend ANY four-year college or university.

2) The Mae Carter Danzy Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Scholarship

This inaugural scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who will attend a Historically Black College or University.  Mrs. Danzy was the person who led the vision of chartering Rho Zeta Omega in Cobb County and served as the chapter’s first president.  She was a proud graduate of Spelman College (1970) and Clark Atlanta University (1972).

Applicants for both scholarships must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an African-American female who resides in Cobb County
• Must attend a Cobb County high school or Marietta High School
• Must be in the graduating class of 2019
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a panel interview in March 2019.

Applications must contain:

• Completed online application
• Resume
• Headshot
• High school transcript (uploaded by the school to pzoscholarship@gmail.com)
• ACT (composite score) or SAT (total score)
• Two letters of recommendation (completed by school official, church/community leader)
• Signed Acceptance Statement
• Signed Certifications page
• A 500-word essay on the topic (s) listed below.  The essay must be double-spaced, using

12-point Times New Roman Font.  If you are applying for both scholarships, you must submit two separate essays.

An applicant is only eligible to receive one scholarship award, to be determined by the Scholarship Committee.

One complete application package that includes ALL supporting materials must be uploaded,

no later than 11:59pm, Monday, February 18, 2019.    NO EXCEPTIONS!

References and an official high school transcript must be uploaded to pzoscholarship@gmail.com

no later than 11:59pm, Monday, February 18, 2019.    NO EXCEPTIONS!

 An application that is missing items will be considered incomplete and will not be considered for an award.    NO EXCEPTIONS!

To obtain the application packet, please click on the link below:

2019 Scholarship Application and Information

The PEARL Foundation and LaSonya, the owner of LL Dance and Fitness LLC invite all to  join us on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 10:30 AM EST for a  great dance fitness sweaty time to support PEARL program initiatives and to get in an awesome workout.  

Register by clicking:  ZUMBA CLASS, December 1, 2018

Proceeds from this event support the PEARL Foundation Inc. Programs

The PEARL Foundation Inc. in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. Rho Zeta Omega Chapter is now accepting applications for the 2018 #CAP Program. 
 
#CAP, the abbreviation for College Application Process, is Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Signature program for 2018-2022. This program is designed to assist high school students with navigating the college application process through a step-by-step approach (STEPP) that will empower students with the knowledge needed to achieve a bright, prosperous future. STEPP stands for:
 
SEARCH: Seeking and finding the right-fit college, scholarships and funding

TEST: Preparing, scheduling and taking required tests such as ACT, SAT, PSAT, etc.

EVALUATE: Evaluate the schools and scholarships to develop an individual short list

PAPERWORK: Assist with development, completion and submission of applications, essays, financial aid forms, letters of recommendation and other required materials

POSITIVE OUTLOOK: Keep a positive attitude to be optimistic about future opportunities

In order to participate in #CAP, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

*High school junior or senior in Cobb County during the 2018-2019 school year 

*Interested in attending college after high school 

*Complete and submit the #CAP application no later than October 31, 2018  

Interested applicants may submit the #CAP application in one of the following ways: 

Email to PZOCAP@gmail.com 

U.S. Postal mail to: 

Rho Zeta Omega Chapter

Alpha  Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

Attn: #CAP

P.O. Box 675499

Marietta, GA  30006-0015 

Complete the electronic application:

Due October 31, 2018

#CAP Cover Letter

#CAP Application

Accepted applicants will be notified via email and U.S. mail with an invitation to the #CAP kick-off scheduled for Sunday, November 11, 2018.

If there are any questions or require further information, please contact the #CAP Chairmen, Kim Boyd and Victoria Jenkins at PZOCAP@gmail.com.

Join us on December 15, 2018 for the third annual “Dashing through the Square 5K Race" through historic Marietta, GA!

You can register here: 

Dashing Through the Square 5K Registration

Can't make it to Marietta, GA? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Virtual runners have two (2)  registration options to choose from:

 This year's event includes a 5K, a Virtual 5K and the 1K Rudolph Run.  The race is a Peachtree Qualifying Race and features electronic chip timing to ensure accuracy for all runners.

Proceeds from this event will support the scholarship fund and other community initiatives benefiting Cobb County.  We have awarded over $300,000 in scholarships to high school seniors in Cobb County.

This race is sponsored by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Zeta Omega Chapter.

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in conjuntion with the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. will host a Health Fair on Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the South Cobb Recreation Center located at 875 Riverside Parkway, Austell, Ga. 30168. Bring your friends and family  for a variety of service offerings such as vision and eye pressure screening, skin cancer screening, and information on strokes, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.  Bring your old or out of date medicines for safe disposal.  All attendees are encouraged to RSVP via email at pzohealthfair@gmail.com. We hope to see you there!!

In observance of minority mental health month. The Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The PEARL Foundation and The National Alliance on Mental Illness would like to invite you to a community panel discussion on mental health challenges currently affecting the black community.

The panel discussion will occur on July 28, 2018, 11:30AM at Turner Chapel AME, located at 492 North Marietta Parkway, Marietta, GA 30060.

Please share the event flyer with your network along with the Evenbrite link below for RSVP.

Please contact Joanne Louis, Vice President and Program Chairman, with any questions at pzoprograms [@] gmail.com.

To register (sign-up for your free tickets), visit the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/o/alpha-kappa-alpha-sorority-inc-rho-zeta-omega-chapter-16778038863

A Midday Rhapsody of Art & Soul returns as one of the Fall premier events! On September 22, 2018, The PEARL Foundation, Inc., and Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., will host its annual, A Midday Rhapsody of Art & Soul, fundraising event to raise funds in support of our scholarship fund and other Cobb County community programs.

The Mason Fine Art Gallery will provide an exquisite backdrop as we salute the arts community through music, poetry, fashion and art. Local and international artists will be featured as we gather to raise money to support the citizens in need within the Cobb County community.

The VIP Experience is the most exclusive way to enjoy this marvelous event. Relax in the comfort of reserved seating in our VIP Lounge. Every VIP Experience ticketholder will go home with a fabulous gift!

Tickets Are on Sale Now! 

Click On the Link Below:

A Midday Rhapsody of Art & Soul - September 22, 2018

You are invited to recycle your paper products with us on Saturday, June 9, 2018 from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. at Campbell Middle School, 3925 South Atlanta Road, Smyrna, Georgia 30080.

Please bring PAPER ONLY - no metal, plastic or newspaper.

The PEARL Foundation, Inc. and the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. awarded $30,000 in scholarships to seven Cobb County students.  Scholarship recipients include:

Oluwademilade Adeoye – Campbell High School

Vivian Baker – Campbell High School

Donni-Margree Crenshaw – South Cobb High School

Kendahl Heckstall – South Cobb High School

Sureya Rapley – Campbell High School

Anatasia Reece – Campbell High School

Lauren Stenson – Hillgrove High School

PEARL Foundation Inc. 2018 Scholarship Recipients

Recipients were selected based on academic achievements, community service, and leadership positions held in their school and community.  They also had to complete an interview with members of the scholarship committee.

The young ladies were honored at the annual scholarship reception which was held on May 5, 2018 at Zion Baptist Church in Marietta, Georgia.  Mr. Brad Wheeler, Chairman, Cobb County School Board attended the reception.  Dr. Latoya Griffin, founder of Secret Miracles Unlimited Foundation, Inc. was the keynote speaker.

Members of The PEARL Foundation, Inc. extend a special acknowledgement to our Diamond Level corporate sponsors, the J.C. Penney Corporation, Home Depot and T-Mobile.  

Please join us for the Teen Domestic Violence Forum on February 24, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  The forum will be held at Lindley Middle School, 50 Veterans Memorial Highway SE, Mableton, Ga. 30126.

Our distinguished panelists include:

Ms. Tomieka Daniel – Managing Attorney for Georgia Legal Services

Ms. Tina Fleming – Senior Investigator for the Office of the Dekalb County District Attorney

Ms. Sharla Jackson – Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Prosecutor

Ms. Alexis Roberts – Motivational Speaker and Victim Advocate

The forum will include an open discussion on the harrowing reality of teen domestic violence.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., founded in 1908 as the first African-American Greek-letter sorority, promotes high scholastic and ethical standards. Since 1987, the North Suburban Atlanta Chapter,Rho Zeta Omega, has actively supported the community through various service projects. One of our annual projects includes awarding college scholarships to talented area students. Rho Zeta Omega, in conjunction with The PEARL Foundation Inc., will award 2018 scholarships based on the following criteria:

• Must be an African-American female who resides in Cobb County.
• Must attend a Cobb County High School or Marietta High School
• Must be in the graduating class of 2018
• Must be a United States citizen
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Must have demonstrated leadership in the school and community
• Must have participated in community service projects
• Qualified applicants must participate in a panel interview on Sunday, March 4, 2018.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a Skills Development Workshop presented by Rho Zeta Omega Chapter scheduled for Sunday, February 25, 2018.  Those who plan to attend must RSVP at pzoscholarship@gmail.com no later than February 20, 2018. 

All applications and supporting materials must be uploaded by midnight on Monday, February 19, 2018, NO EXCEPTIONS! 

To be considered for a scholarship, the following items must be included with the completed application:

Completed online application (Click here to download)

• Resume
• Headshot picture
• High school transcript (submitted by the school to pzoscholarship@gmail.com).
• ACT (composite score) or SAT (total score)
• Two letters of recommendation (completed by school official, church/community leader) - (submitted to pzoscholarship@gmail.com).
• Signed  Acceptance Statement
• Signed Certifications page
• A 500-word essay on one of two topics