United Way and the Divine Nine: Partnering for Community Impact
The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), also known as the Divine Nine, has long been dedicated to uplifting communities, and their support of Laundry Love is a powerful example of this commitment. The NPHC is a collective of nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, each with a rich legacy of service and advocacy.
Laundry Love, a program in partnership with United Way of North Central New Mexico, provides free laundry services to individuals and families facing financial hardship. For many, the cost of doing laundry can become a barrier, forcing them to choose between clean clothes and other basic needs. By offering detergent, quarters, and access to washing machines and dryers, Laundry Love helps restore dignity and ease to those in need.
This collaboration began when Bev McMillan, UWNCNM’s Family Advocacy Center Manager, connected with Ron Shinault of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at a local event in 2023. They connected over their shared passion for community work. When they met again in mid-2024, Bev shared how Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. had adopted Laundry Love as part of its “Strengthening Our Families” initiative. Inspired by this, Ron encouraged his chapter to get involved, which sparked a chain reaction of support across other Divine Nine organizations.
Since then, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. have also participated in Laundry Love, contributing their time and donating supplies. Their combined efforts have revitalized the program, with some even expanding its reach. For example, members of Omega Psi Phi observed the need for children’s winter coats and are now exploring ways to provide them at future events.
This partnership demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when different groups unite with a common purpose. The Divine Nine’s dedication to service and advocacy exemplifies the power of collaboration, and UWNCNM looks forward to continuing this important work together.
As the Laundry Love program continues to grow and touch lives, it exemplifies how we embody our vision: United We Thrive, creating lasting change for our community.
For more details on how you can donate or volunteer, please contact Bev McMillan
