Chicago Heights Alumni Chapter Hosts 7th “Shopping With a Kappa,” Brings Holiday Joy To 125 Local Kids

Olympia Fields, IL — December 6, 2025 — The Chicago Heights Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., in partnership with the Walmart Superstore in Olympia Fields and the Chicago Heights Alumni Foundation, hosted its 7th Annual Shopping With a Kappa (SWAK) event, continuing a tradition of impactful holiday service throughout the South Suburbs.

This year, the chapter supported nearly 125 children, each receiving a $100 Walmart gift card to freely choose gifts—whether toys, clothes, books, or essentials—that mattered most to them. Parents and fraternity members accompanied the children as they navigated the aisles, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere filled with excitement and gratitude.

Brothers of the Chicago Heights Alumni Chapter volunteered their time to shop alongside each family, helping children make selections and ensuring every participant felt supported and celebrated. The collaboration with Walmart, combined with financial support from the Chicago Heights Alumni Foundation, allowed the chapter to expand its reach and deepen its impact.

“This event grows bigger every year, and its impact continues to inspire our chapter,” said Derwin Phillip, Chairman of the Shopping With a Kappa initiative. “Being able to bring joy to a child during the holidays is one of the greatest gifts we can give as a chapter.”

Chapter Polemarch Jermaine Morales also expressed pride in the collective effort. “Service is the foundation of Kappa Alpha Psi,” he noted. “Today showed how powerful it is when organizations, businesses, and community members unite for a shared purpose. The smiles on these children’s faces say it all.”

The event once again highlighted the fraternity’s dedication to community uplift, mentorship, and meaningful holiday outreach. The Chicago Heights Alumni Chapter looks forward to continuing and expanding this beloved tradition in 2026.