Eta Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Marks Founders' Day With Expanded Community Meal Service
BLACKSBURG, Va. — The Eta Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. marked Founders' Day this year by continuing a tradition more than a decade in the making: packaging and delivering Thanksgiving meal boxes to families across the New River Valley. What began as a small service effort has grown into a signature project rooted in the fraternity’s commitment to “lifting as we climb.”
Each year, chapter members assemble and distribute meal boxes for families in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Radford, with plans to expand into Roanoke next year. Chapter leadership said the project reflects a core belief in being decent human beings and giving back to the communities that support Virginia Tech students. Members emphasized that attending the university, being part of their fraternity, and having food and housing are privileges they do not take for granted. Sharing their success, even in a small way, is one way they aim to honor those privileges.
The chapter’s efforts are made possible through several community partnerships. Daniel from the YMCA at Virginia Tech helps coordinate the list of families requesting meal boxes and, in some years, provides space for food storage and packing. Kroger supplies rapid bulk food deliveries, while Uriah and Michale from Ace Hardware donate the boxes used for packaging. Chapter members said that while the meal boxes are simple, their meaning runs deep because the project embodies the fraternity’s values and its commitment to service and friendship.
This year, the chapter more than doubled last year’s impact. In 2023, the meal project supported 30 families. In 2024, that number rose to 80 families throughout the New River Valley. Members credited this growth to increased internal fundraising and donations from supporters.
“Thank you to everyone who donated and supported our efforts,” Chance McCary said. “Your contributions directly helped us serve our community in a meaningful way.”
The project also received national recognition when Watch The Yard, a leading platform highlighting Divine Nine and NPHC organizations, featured a video of Eta Lambda’s service day on its Instagram page.
As the chapter looks ahead, members plan to continue expanding the project and increasing the number of families served each year. Students and members of the fraternity and sorority life community who are interested in participating in next year’s initiative are encouraged to contact the chapter for more information.
