Philadelphia

Founding Members

In May, 1959, the New York Chapter officially installed a chapter in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania into the PIVOTS organization. As the women in both groups relocated and developed other associations, new chapters evolved in various cities. After some time and installations of chapters in Atlanta, GA, Baltimore, MD, Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Detroit, MI, Macon, GA, Pittsburgh, PA, Washington, DC, and New York, NY, PIVOTS was reorganized and took on the name of CARATS, Incorporated.

In 1975, a new creed of Sisterhood was created: “We are CARATS, Charming individuals who are Actively involved in our organization and communities. We are Responsible women, Appreciative of our heritage, and Truthful and Sincere in our endeavors.” The official motto of the organization became “Embracing Dimensional Friendships.

Three original members of the PIVOTS, Peggy Epps, Irma Brooks and Percenia Johnson met and talked about the group becoming affiliated with the CARATS, Inc., how much they enjoyed traveling bi-annually to other cities with the group when they were a part of the PIVOTS, and how they missed seeing their old friends. After that meeting, the group met with other former members of the PIVOTS and contacted the CARATS to start the process to have CLUB STARACS become a Chapter of CARATS, Inc.

On April 12, 1980; The Philadelphia Chapter of the CARATS, Inc. was installed into the National organization.

The Charter Members of the Philadelphia Chapter of CARATS, Inc. are Irma Brooks, Alice Cannon, Laura Cousins, Peggy Epps, Gwendolyn Gates Hewett, Mae Hadfield, Percenia Johnson, Delores Lewis Elam, Wilhelmina Simpkins, and Helen (Mikki) Webb. Peggy Epps served as the Chapters first President.

2021-2023 Chapter Officers:

  • President:  Claudia Averette-Williams
  • Vice President:  Johanna W. Daye
  • Recording Secretary:  Laurie Braxton
  • Corresponding Secretary:  Denise Davis
  • Financial Secretary:  Tanya Evans
  • Treasurer: Deadra Cannon
  • Past Immediate President  – Brenda Willingham

Martha (Marty) C. Young served as National President from 1986-88.

April 12, 1980 the Philadelphia chapter was born. We are celebrating our 40th anniversary this year and we’d like to recognize our founding leaders. Carat Peggy Epps was President and Carat Percinia Johnson was Vice President. They began what was then and is now a chapter of dynamic and determined women who are dedicated to our beloved Carat organization.