The Pearl Foundation, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 under the laws of the State of Maryland in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Iota Lambda Omega Chapter.

The primary purpose of the Pearl Foundation is to raise funds to advance educational and charitable giving goals. Recognizing the need for funding options and the increased cost of higher education, the foundation generates funds from foundation members, other contributors, grants, and various initiatives.

The Pearl Foundation has awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors with high scholastic standing and a demonstrated passion for serving their community. In 2022, the foundation awarded $62,000 in scholarships to 23 Howard County seniors interested in pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities. Award recipients are enrolled institutions such as:

Duke University

Howard University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

New York University

Stevenson University

Temple University

University of Maryland

Educational pursuits include pre-medicine, biology, bioengineering, mechanical engineering, psychology, and performing arts. We are pleased to continue the legacy of supporting students throughout their post-secondary pursuits.

The Pearl Foundation supports other educational opportunities in Howard County, Maryland. In partnership with Iota Lambda Omega Chapter, the foundation has donated funds to support the Monarch Mills community through the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement program. The foundation also partners with the Howard County Public School System to fund the annual Youth Leadership Summit, which provides education and college preparation guidance. The foundation pledged $15,000 to the Howard Community College Health Sciences Building and the Silas Craft Memorial Scholarship. Annually, the foundation donates funds to local and global organizations that support cultural awareness and offer services to underserved individuals and families. Contributions to charitable organizations include:

A-OK Mentoring\

Bridges to Housing Stability

Grassroots DAY Resource Center

Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

United Negro College Fund

The foundation accepts in-kind services, contributions, and sponsorships from corporations and other organizations to help promote its goals.