June 28th was a rainy Saturday, but spirits were high at St. Stephen’s Community House. The Columbus section of the National Council of Negro Women, or the NCNW, congregated outside of the building awaiting the exciting day ahead. It was time for their annual diaper drive.
As members stood masked and socially distanced, it was apparent that the drive would look a lot different this year. In years past, there would be a celebration with food, music, and fellowship, to celebrate the successes of this day. Because of COVID-19, there would be no after-party. However, the women did not let the unfortunate circumstances distract them from the big day ahead.
The annual diaper drive brought in over 7,000 diapers that will be distributed to SSCH families in need. This is just one example of how the NCNW supports the Columbus community. Throughout the year the NCNW hosts many events, including a holiday drive, a Black History Month event, and an annual fundraiser dinner. The NCNW strives to empower the community and specifically, empower women.
The Columbus section of the NCNW was founded in 1983 and they have been serving the Columbus community in a multitude of ways ever since. They like to think of themselves as, “an organization within other organizations, that will go where they are needed.” You may wonder, what does this look like?
Many of the members of the NCNW are members of other organizations, and they work to support each other and create a community of togetherness. SSCH is one of the organizations that has been lucky enough to be woven into the fabric of the NCNW. Ms. Alisa Osei-Poku and Ms. Vanitia Turner are both staff members at St. Stephen’s Community House and members of the NCNW, with Ms. Turner proudly serving as the chair of the annual diaper drive.
SSCH and the NCNW have supported each other throughout the years and continued the tradition this year when they decided that all diapers collected during the diaper drive would be donated to SSCH.
At St. Stephen’s Community House, we live our faith through service and love of neighbor, and the National Council of Negro Women is a perfect example of faith in action. We are proud to be surrounded by strong women that empower and inspire, and the positive impact can be seen radiating through our community.