Electa Chapter No. 3 held its Annual Scholarship and Women of Faith Awards gala on June 18 in the Vista Ballroom and Catalina Terrace of Los Verdes Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes.
The event was well-attended by members of Los Angeles Eastern Star and Mason chapters, South Los Angeles churches, Pan African Scholars, The Jeffrey Foundation, Top Ladies of Distinction-Hub City, Top Teens of America-Hub City, Restoration Diversion Services, Egyptian Court, Vicinity Ministers’ Wives, National Council of Negro Women and Girls Club of Los Angeles.
Worthy Matron Janis Blount and Worthy Patron Michael Hawkins of Electa Chapter No. 3, spearheaded a community fundraising plan, which culminated with awarding academic scholarships to six college-bound youth.
The keynote speaker was actor, author, and youth motivational speaker Sheldon Bailey. Bailey, a single father, delivered powerful and inspiring words emphasizing academic achievement and strengthening young African American men.
Also, Electa’s Scholarship Committee selected two extraordinary “Women of Faith” to honor for their professional presence and lifelong commitment to strengthening communities of concern through higher education and neighborhood activism.
The honorees were Dr. Evelyn Metoyer-Williams, who received the “Esteemed Educator Award.” Dr. Metoyer-Williams is a retired educator with more than 40 years as a teacher and administrator on Early Childhood Education. She has implemented multicultural curricula, staff development programs, the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, the California State Compliance Review and the National Association of Education for Young Children’s Accreditation program evaluations. She is president of the Pan African Scholars and a children’s and families advocate.
Minister Sinetta Farley, the “Community Service Award” recipient, is the founder and president of Restoration Diversion Services (RDS), an organization that assists human trafficking victims. RDS established the first drop-in center in Compton and services high sex trafficking neighborhoods in Compton and Long Beach. RDS provides sex trafficking victim services, resources, and referral assistance primarily to young women of color. Minister Farley has been recognized by Compton Mayor Aja Brown, elected officials and task forces throughout Los Angeles County for her efforts to transform lives.
“While the Scholarship Planning Committee of Electa Chapter No. 3 is well aware how challenging it can be to choose which worthy cause out of so many deserve the most attention at any given moment, we are particularly honored to be associated with faith institutions, wellness agencies, social, and fraternal organizations that supported the Electa Chapter No. 3 Scholarship Awards Gala in such a special way,” said a spokesperson.