Two national women’s organizations chartered local chapters in luncheon ceremonies last weekend.

Above, 40 women were installed into the Richmond Metropolitan Area Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc. The 33-year-old organization’s mission is to develop leaders and empower African-American women.

Dr. Delta R. Bowers was elected president of the new chapter and Sheryl Sweat-Gregory, first vice president. National President Michele McNeil-Emery of Maryland and Beverly Johnson of Tennessee, national third vice president, spoke at the ceremony March 28 held at a Downtown hotel. Actor Daphne Maxwell Reid served as mistress of ceremony.

The Richmond NCBW chapter plans to advocate for women of color who live in poverty, suffer with mental illness or are victims of domestic violence. The organization was founded in New York City in 1970.

Sixteen women, right, were installed into the Carrousels of Richmond, becoming the 24th chapter in the national social organization’s 59-year history.

Cynthia Mayo was elected president of the chapter, and Rosemary Jones, vice president. Speakers at the ceremony held March 28 at a Henrico County hotel included Glenna L. Watson of Columbus, Ohio, a founder of the organization in 1956, and national President Mae R. Carr, who performed the installation. As part of the organization’s community service commitment, the Carrousels also donate to charities across the country.