From preserving history to fighting for voting rights to mentoring young people, the women of Delta Sigma Theta sorority have long worked to better the lives of black Las Vegans.
The century-old organization’s roots in Nevada date back to 1966, when 11 young Las Vegas social workers and educators formed the local alumnae chapter.
They took part in the civil rights movement, promoted education, and worked to end segregation in Las Vegas.
“They united together on that common goal that common thread of wanting to just be a blessing and to help and uplift the community,” chapter president Tami Bass told KNPR's State of Nevada.
Today the group encourages its members to be active in the political process, including holding workshops for those interested in running for office.
“It never stops that is one thing that we do know," Bass said, "That it just keeps growing and growing and growing and we are committed to that growth and being more politically astute, more politically efficient, and more politically strategic.”
The sorority members don't just focus on politics they also have programs in schools to help young women and men achieve their academic goals.
Bass said when young woman pledges with Delta Sigma Theta they are making a lifetime commitment to the sorority and to their community.
“As long as a kid is not ready at grade level, there is work to be done," Bass said, "As long as women or men as well are being battered and abused through domestic violence, there is work to be done. As long there is disparity or inequity in hiring, in education, there is work to be done. So, that means there is work for Delta Sigma Theta”
And after two members died in recent years because of domestic abuse, the group has made combating it a priority, according to Bass.
“We have got to end that cycle and we mean to be a part of that resolution,” she said.
Tami Bass, Delta Sigma Theta chapter president