News Summary
The Kappa Delta Chapter at Francis Marion University hosted the Shamrock Carnival in Florence to fundraise for the Durant Children’s Center. This beloved annual event offered family-friendly activities while raising nearly $7,000 over the past two years to support children in need. The Kappa Delta Sorority emphasizes integrity and leadership, creating opportunities for growth while advocating for child welfare. Together with the community, they celebrate achievements and promote awareness about important causes.
Fun and Fundraising: Shamrock Carnival A Hit in Florence
This past Saturday, Florence, South Carolina, buzzed with excitement as the Kappa Delta Chapter at Francis Marion University (FMU) organized its much-anticipated annual event, the Shamrock Carnival. This lively fundraiser is not just a chance for fun but also serves a beautiful purpose—supporting the Durant Children’s Center.
Celebrating a Worthy Cause
The Durant Children’s Center, established in 1994, holds a special place in the community as the second children’s advocacy center in South Carolina. Known affectionately as “The House Where the Healing Begins,” the center provides essential assessment and treatment for children suspected to be victims of abuse and neglect. The passionate members of Kappa Delta believe that every child deserves a bright future in a safe and stable environment, which is why they dedicate their time and energy to this noble cause.
Making a Difference Together
Each ticket sold at the Shamrock Carnival helps to raise funds that directly benefit the Durant Children’s Center through the efforts of Prevent Child Abuse America. It’s a win-win situation for all involved! A remarkable 80% of the funds collected from the event will directly support the Durant Children’s Center. Meanwhile, the remaining 20% contributes to the national organization, furthering their mission across the country. Over the past two years, Kappa Delta has already raised nearly $7,000 to assist these vital services.
A Day Full of Family Fun
Families flocked to the carnival in droves to enjoy a full day of entertainment. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, games, and joy as children experienced all the fun activities designed just for them. The Kappa Delta members worked diligently to ensure the carnival was not only enjoyable but educational, promoting awareness about the importance of child welfare.
The Spirit of Sisterhood
Beyond the fundraising efforts, the Kappa Delta Sorority upholds a mission that emphasizes integrity, confidence, and leadership. The members inspire each other to embody these values, creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. The sorority’s commitment to making a difference, particularly for vulnerable children, resonates deeply with their core values.
A Celebration of Education
In addition to the Shamrock Carnival, the Gamma Psi Chapter of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. (NSPDK) recently celebrated its founding anniversary with a ceremony in Jackson. This educational sorority, created by eight visionary women, promotes a lasting sisterhood among educators and emphasizes the importance of the teaching profession.
Participants at the event honored deserving members in their community, presenting awards to individuals who’ve exemplified dedication and excellence in education. Dr. Versie Hamlet recognized Ladonna Braswell as the Educator of the Year, applauding her 16 years of service, including her current role as principal at North Parkway. Meanwhile, the Student of the Year award went to Mackenzie Parham, a remarkable senior at Bolivar Central High School. Mackenzie showcases her academic prowess with a GPA of 3.9 and a notable ACT score of 25. She’s not only a high achiever but also stands out as the homecoming queen and a dedicated participant in numerous extracurricular activities. With dreams of becoming an attorney, Mackenzie plans to attend the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, NC, majoring in pre-law.
Looking Ahead
The Shamrock Carnival and the NSPDK anniversary event demonstrate a community coming together to support important causes while also celebrating achievements. The Kappa Delta Chapter and the Gamma Psi Chapter highlight the joyful spirit of Florence, reminding folks that coming together for a good cause can be both rewarding and fun. It’s about creating a brighter future for the next generation, one event at a time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Kappa Delta Sorority Raises Funds
- Legacy: Joanna Rogers Obituary
- KVRR: Students and Friends Mourn Loss
- Obits: Charlotte Murdock Obituary
- Jackson Sun: Gamma Psi Chapter Celebration
- Wikipedia: Child Advocacy
- Google Search: Child Advocacy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Advocacy
- Google News: Child Advocacy

Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.