CHARLOTTE — As thousands celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., a local fraternity chapter is sharing its unique bond with the civil rights leader
King was a reverend, father, leader and husband. He also was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
The fraternity was founded in 1906 at Cornell University and now has chapters across the country, including one in the Queen City.
[ ALSO READ: Charlotte-area events that celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy ]
Jerel Harvey, president of Charlotte’s graduate chapter Beta Nu Lambda, feels a special connection to the man who has inspired millions.
“I feel that I am just living his dream living out the legacy and the vision the body and the principle that he did,” Harvey said. “I chose alpha primarily because of the service component and its dedication to leadership. And so you will find alpha ,men in great leadership capacities in every area, politics in business and sports.”
The Beta Nu Lambda chapter has served the charlotte community for over 80 years. The group’s members put in almost 400 service hours each with events such as blood drives. They also help more than 100 families and give away over $92,000 in scholarships each year.
>> In the video at the top of the page, Channel 9′s Deneige Broom talks with the Charlotte chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity about their connection to Martin Luther King Jr.
(WATCH BELOW: Volunteers host events in Charlotte area to honor Martin Luther King Jr.)
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