Mrs. Alberta T. Davis is the driving force behind the AT Davis Foundation. Ms. Alberta or "Mom," as she has been affectionatley called is the daughter of Albert and Gertilee Thomas. She has lived the majority of her life in Philadelphia and impacted hundreds of youth through her community development efforts. Ms. Alberta is the mother of six children (Dorinda M. Thomas, Dr. Dwayne B. Thomas, Ph.D., Mrs. Desire L. Thomas-Williams, Mr. Charles E. Thomas [deceased], Mr. John E. Thomas, and Mr. Anthony C. Bullock) born and raised in Philadelphia. After raising her six children, Ms. Alberta took in and helped to raise seven (7) foster children.
As a longtime single parent, Ms. Alberta was extremely active in the lives of her children and the youth that they came in contact with. Her leadership in the lives of children led to leadership roles in the communities where she settled. Ms. Alberta was one of the first women in the community to work with the Mayor's Block Captain program in Philadelphia, serving in this role for numerous years. As Block Captain she organized some of the very first community "Block Parties" in the 1970's. Often with little resources and yet plenty of determination, she garnerd sponsorship and support from neighbors, local churches, and areas businesses.
Ms. Alberta also served as a Den and Scout Mother, Youth Group Leader, Church leader, and Community Activist. If there were problems in and around her neighborhood, then she knew about them, and where to get answers to solve the problems. Many of the area youth and adults would stop by to see Ms. Alberta for advice on troubles, major decisions, career goals and direction, family issues and/or crises, and numerous other life issues. Today she is still "Mom" to many of the youth that she has aided. With discipline and love she helped and helps to mold the lives of every young person that she meets.
Dedication to Education and Community Service have always been at the forefront of her existence. She attended Catholic High School in Philadelphia and after raising her six children and at the age of 52 went on to receive her Associates of Science degree in Paralegal Studies from the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP). She has been a staunch supporter of education as a vehicle for advancement in the lives of young people and as a center for the advancement of the community.
