The Charmaine Chapman Society of the United Way of Greater St. Louis has launched its annual Divine 9 fundraising challenge, bringing together members of historically Black sororities and fraternities to support local families in need.
Named for the late Charmaine Chapman — the first Black woman to lead a major United Way chapter — the society was inspired by St. Louis American Publisher Donald M. Suggs and has grown to become one of the largest Black philanthropic groups in the nation, with more than 400 members.
According to the United Way, 43% of households in the St. Louis region struggle to afford basic needs such as housing, utilities, food, transportation and healthcare.
This year’s Divine 9 challenge, which runs through Nov. 21, encourages members of the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations to pledge at the Leadership level — an annual gift of $1,000 or more to support United Way’s regional programs and partner agencies.
The effort is being led by co-chairs Arica and Steven Harris, who said the campaign reflects the society’s longstanding commitment to community impact.
“Our passion for helping people shines brightest during fundraising initiatives like the Divine 9 Challenge,” the Harrises said in a joint statement. “We are looking forward to our fellow CCS members making this year’s challenge a special one by giving their very best to support the greater good of the community.”
United Way President and CEO Michelle D. Tucker called the Divine 9 effort “a fun, friendly way for our philanthropic leaders to inspire hope and change in our community through collective giving.”
The Charmaine Chapman Society is part of United Way’s larger network of leadership giving programs, which help fund dozens of local nonprofits and direct services across the bi-state region.