When Helen Alston, Beta Pi-Florida, found out she was going to be a grandma for the first time, she knew her KD sisters would be excited for her. She did not expect that her sisters from the Greater Atlanta Day Alumnae Chapter would throw her a “grandmother party” — much like a baby shower — with festive décor and food to celebrate the grandmother-to-be!  

Grateful for their support, Helen knew these sisters, many of whom were already seasoned grandmas, would be there answer any of her grandma questions. 

“From when we were raised, times are different,” Helen says. “I know who to go to for help.” 

Helen’s advice for anyone entering their “grandma era” is to: 

• Ask friends for help when needed — they might have great ideas for activities or know the perfect place for the kids to play when it’s raining.  

• Try (your best) to follow the parents’ schedule and wishes — though grandmas are known for sometimes having a special treat up their sleeves, of course. 

• Come ready with energy! Kids seem to have a limitless supply so grandmas have to do their best to keep up. 

Helen stays busy helping her son and daughter-in-law with their girls, and she continues to make time for Kappa Delta, serving on the chapter advisory board at Kennesaw State and as the secretary from the Greater Atlanta Day Alumnae Chapter. 

“I think it’s like anything — you make time for what you want to do, and as alumnae, it’s so much fun,” Helen says. 

No matter your age or your collegiate chapter, Helen says you’re accepted in an alumnae chapter because you’re a Kappa Delta. She loves getting to meet women from all over the country and of all ages through her volunteer roles with KD. 

“I’ve always been young at heart, but I think KD keeps you young because we have fun.” Helen says.

The sisters Helen has met from being involved in her alumnae chapter have become some of her dearest friends and an important part of her support network. From helping to clear leaves from her yard to attending a favorite show at the theater together, Helen is grateful for the friendships she wouldn’t have if not for staying involved in Kappa Delta. 

“It’s sisterhood continuing,” Helen says. 

For any KD sisters thinking about getting involved — at any age — Helen says just give it a try.  

“Maybe you’ll meet some new friends, and maybe you’ll just have a blast,” Helen says.