The ruby anniversary of the local alumnae chapter of a traditionally crimson and cream sorority is being recognized with reunions and awards.

The Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. turned 40 in November, and members kicked off their celebration Nov. 21 when the chapter was given a city proclamation from the Board of Mayor and Aldermen honoring the 14 charter members of the local chapter for their community service to Vicksburg over the years.

“We’re very proud that the city honored us by giving us a proclamation for being a part of the city of Vicksburg and Warren County for 40 years. We’re so happy that the city has embraced us,” chapter president Loretta Brantley said.

In addition to honoring the charter members, the proclamation also noted the chapter’s charter ceremony, which took place Nov. 6, 1976, with help from the sorority’s regional director and the state coordinator.

The sorority is focused on community service and has a five-point platform of economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement. These five points lead the women to choose how they will serve in the community.

“We’re very proud of being part of an organization that does community service, not just locally but nationally and internationally. Certainly the organization is very instrumental with government affairs, health, industry; we cover the gamut,” said Lisa Johnson, assistant treasurer and chair of arts and letters. “It’s an honor to be a member as well as a privilege.”

The local chapter has offered multiple services to the Vicksburg community over the years, including blood drives, voter registrations, candidate forums, youth activities, fundraisers that benefit local scholarships and international causes, partnerships with Mountain of Faith Ministries and Haven House, plus so much more. Brantley said the organization has received help from city officials and community members in their endeavors.

“We would not be able to do the work that we do without the support of the city of Vicksburg and Warren County, without the support of the citizens,” Brantley said. “We’re going to continue to do the work that we’re doing, our community service work, to help to improve our community.”

The members of the local chapter will honor all 14 charter members this weekend in a private sisterhood luncheon.

“We’re going to be celebrating with them,” Brantley said. “We’ll even be celebrating our Delta Dears, those are some of our members that are over a certain age.”

Previous members who still live locally and those who have moved away have been invited to the ceremony. Three charter members are still active today and two have passed away.