About Us

Originally chartered on January 7, 1994 as the Eta Omega Foundation, Inc. the foundation was established as a charitable and educational organization to promote high scholastic achievements, good self esteem and high ethical standards.

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In February 2005 the foundation filed amended and restated articles of incorporation to reflect the new name The Hortense B. Perry Foundation, Inc. The name was changed to honor a loyal member of the Eta Omega chapter, Hortense B. Perry, who, upon her death, willed a large endowment to the foundation for scholarships. The Foundation was bequeathed a second trust by Henrietta Winstead Johnson, a charter board member, retired state social worker and member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church, which is also restricted for scholarships. It is through the generosity of these two individuals, in addition to general fundraising, that enables the Foundation to provide between $30,000 to $60,000 in scholarships annually.

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In 2019, the Foundation purchased the building at 3107 S. Crums Lane, fulfilling a longtime goal of its members. A naming contest was held amongst the members, resulting in the name, Maude Brown Porter Center for Excellence. The name is in honor of deceased member and former assistant principal of Central High School. Mrs. Brown Porter also was the 7th International President of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

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On September 22, 2020 the foundation included the Maude Brown Porter Center for Excellence as a recognized name to continue the non-profit status for the Center. 

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In addition to funding and supporting scholarships, other signature programs include, but are not limited to:

• Book and Read-In Program – a book and reading program for elementary school students.

• Derby Scholarship Brunch - an annual fundraiser and celebration of the HBP scholarship recipients.

• LEAF (Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, and Future) – a program of encouragement and self-improvement to middle school girls.

• Salute to Women and Emergent Leaders - a program celebrating female entrepreneurs and impactful community leaders.