The concept of "community" has always been important for African-Americans. From the time of slavery to the Civil Rights Movement, the idea that the community would sustain itself as a cohesive unit for the purpose of survival was paramount. In years since the end of the Civil Rights Movement, the ideology of the community has seemingly become obsolete. Because of this, many people have suffered.

The holidays especially, for many of us, are a time of celebration. Although many people have been afforded the opportunity to celebrate by having the bare essentials (food, clothing, shelter) and more, there are others that are not as lucky. Iota Phi Theta, in the spirit of community, believes that every person should have these bare essentials during the holidays and throughout the year. To assist in efforts to provide the opportunity to obtain these necessities, Iota has created the Community Reclamation Initiative.