Omega Psi Phi

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., by three young undergraduate students and their faculty advisor. The three undergraduates were Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper, and Frank Coleman. They were advised by Professor Ernest E. Just. These four felt the need for an organization of men of like ideals to foster comradeship and to aid and uplift others. Banding together under the motto "Friendship is Essential to the Soul" and guided by the cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift, they formed the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Omega Psi Phi was the first African American Greek letter fraternity founded on a Historically Black College and University campus. The founders had to overcome much resistance but persevered and met their objective. The fraternity was incorporated in 1914 and has amassed over 150,000 members to help foster programs for the benefit of all people regardless of sex, religion, creed, or color. Dr. Jackson was initiated into Omega Psi Phi in the fall of 1948 and was active in its Theta Pi Chapter in Vallejo, CA, becoming its 2010 Omega Superior Service Award recipient.

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Omega Boys Club

The Omega Boys Club in Vallejo, California, has been a transformative force in youth development for over 50 years. Founded in 1966 by Philmore Graham, the club began when Graham encountered six young boys playing football on a cold November day and was inspired to create a safe and supportive environment for them. An active Omega Psi Phi Fraternity member, Graham felt a strong responsibility to guide youth from challenging backgrounds. He quickly devised a program that combined tutoring, life skills training, and enriching field trips, igniting enthusiasm among the boys and eventually building a broader membership.

Growth and Establishment
In 1971, Graham, alongside supporters John H. Jones and Jim Swindle, formalized the organization, incorporating it as a nonprofit. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for what the club would become: an essential institution in Vallejo's community. In 1976, the organization moved to a larger facility at 555 Corcoran Avenue—now called 1 Positive Place—where members can access comprehensive resources, including a gym, study hall, computer lab, and library. This expansion positioned the club to serve even more youth, creating a dynamic, multifaceted program.

Dr. Oscar J. Jackson's Impact
While not a co-founder, Dr. Jackson's involvement brought an elevated focus on health, discipline, and academic excellence to the club. His outreach and guidance have particularly impacted the club's educational programs, reinforcing pathways for members to pursue higher education. Dr. Jackson has also helped forge community partnerships and fundraising efforts, ensuring the longevity and expansion of key programs. His mentorship has been vital to countless youth seeking stability, aligning with the club's mission to uplift young people in every facet.

Adapting to Serve All Youth
In 1990, the club opened its doors to girls, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and equality in youth development. This change catalyzed a new era of growth and redefined the organization as the Continentals of Omega Boys Club, embodying its pledge to serve all young people within Vallejo. By 2015, the club re-established itself as an independent entity for both boys and girls, responding to the needs of the modern community.

Educational Programs and Legacy
Today, the Omega Boys Club remains profoundly dedicated to youth success. The Omega Scholars Program, which provides tutoring, scholarships, and college readiness assistance, exemplifies the club's focus on academic achievement. Under the influence of figures like Dr. Jackson, the club has emphasized a commitment to educational excellence and social responsibility, encouraging members to participate in local projects that benefit the broader Vallejo community.

A Modern Revival: New Gymnasium Partnership
In 2024, the club embarked on a significant new chapter. It partnered with Griffin Technology Academy (GTA) and Mare Island Technology Academy to construct a modern gymnasium at its Mare Island campus. This partnership represents a renewed commitment to providing top-tier physical and academic facilities for Vallejo's youth. The project, set to replace the former condemned gym, has been seven years in the making, marking a long-anticipated upgrade.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held recently, included remarks from school leaders, students, and community representatives, celebrating the construction of a $7.9 million facility. The new gym will serve as a versatile space for physical education and community events, with additional classrooms to expand academic opportunities. Nick Driver, Superintendent of Griffin Technology Academy, expressed pride in the project, calling it "a proud moment for the entire community." Dr. Jackson's presence at the event underscored his ongoing support for the Omega Boys and Girls Club's mission, now being realized through this rekindled partnership.

Looking to the Future
The project has garnered significant community support, with funding from the state Office of Public School Construction and a construction contract awarded to a local contractor. The gym's construction is anticipated to conclude within the next year, ushering in a new phase of enhanced services for Vallejo's youth. The facility will stand as a testament to the Omega Boys and Girls Club's enduring legacy and the critical role that leaders like Dr. Jackson play in shaping the lives of Vallejo's next generation.

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