The DEED Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on empowering youth, women, and families through educational and economic development. DEED was established in 1998 by members of the Kansas City, Missouri Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (DST-KCMO) to raise funds for youth scholarships and the acquisition of a "Delta House" for community service.  In 2015, the Foundation purchased a historic property now known as the Delta Athenaeum to affirm its commitment to this founding purpose.

DEED has a successful history of partnering with DST-KCMO and other groups to promote youth development and economic growth and stability in the urban core. Through ownership of the Delta Athenaeum, the Foundation provides a mid-town venue for community events and office or meeting space for non-profit agencies. DEED also co-sponsors the annual Cotillion, a youth development and leadership program that has awarded over 1,000 high school seniors at least $1,200,000 in college scholarships over the past four decades.