History
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was founded on January 13, 1913 by 22 African American women at Howard University. Out of the vision of these pioneering young women, Delta Sigma Theta has grown into the largest African American women’s organization in the world, with chapters throughout the United States and abroad.
Beloved Founders Of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
National Website: deltasigmatheta.org
Chapter History
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Southfield Alumnae Chapter (SAC) was chartered in Southfield, Michigan on November 17, 1984 and became the first African American Greek organization and one of the first African American women’s organizations to be established in the city of Southfield. The 738th chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., SAC is comprised of professional African American women who are committed to public service both collectively and individually.
The chartering members of SAC organized in order to respond to the needs of the growing Black community in the transitional community of Southfield. Now, in its 25th year of existence, SAC boasts more than 250 members and is a viable agent for action and community involvement. Through the implementation of the national Five-Point Program Thrust, SAC has established specific programs to meet local community needs and has become one of the leading forces for change in the African American community.
FIVE POINT PROGRAM THRUST
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
∆ Financial Fortitude: “Smart Women Finish Rich” Series
Financial Fortitude is an economic development program helping the community and sorors alike define their personal financial skills and goals, while serving as a blueprint to address all aspects of personal finances.
∆ H.O.M.E. Initiative Program
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
∆ Tutorial Program
SAC points with pride to its tutorial program which has served students in grades K – 12 since 1985. The tutorial program is the chapter’s longest running community service project, providing positive role models and services to young people. The professions of our tutors include medical doctors, engineers, teachers, counselors, community leaders to name a few.
∆ Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy
The Dr. Betty Shabazz Academy provides an opportunity for girls, ages 11-14 years, to participate in multi-faceted programs which address the educational challenges girls face. These are particularly in the fields of math, science, and non traditional careers which cannot be addressed by single interventions or approaches. The program is geared to prepare these youth to be leaders in the 21st Century. This is a national program of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Southfield Alumnae Program is funded through the Torch of Wisdom Foundation, Inc.
∆ Delteens
The Delteens organization is a youth enrichment group developed to encourage high schools girls (grades 10-12) to become the leaders of tomorrow, by exhibiting strong moral character, integrity, scholarship and commitment to the community. The women of SAC serve as mentors to the Delteens helping implement numerous service programs and cultural projects throughout the year.
INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS & INVOLVEMENT
∆ International Programs
International programs held by SAC support National initiatives currently in place to harness the sorority’s vast potential to strategically impact the plight of people living in Africa. Generating monetary contributions and donations (i.e. toiletries, shoes, food items, etc.), SAC continually provides assistance to programs in Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa and South Africa, such as Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital.
∆ International Day of Service
International Day of Service is a day of participation and collaboration with other chapters and community organizations where one day projects serve as conduits for education and awareness. The focus for the next two years is water. Without clean and safe water, millions of people will remain in poverty. Inadequate sanitation and water are among the biggest causes of child mortality.
PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH
∆ Health Education
Health Awareness clinics emphasizing issues pertinent to women and minorities are sponsored by SAC working to preserve the physical, mental and spiritual health of our respective communities. Seminars, workshops and programs center around raising awareness on chronic illnesses in African American families such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Programs include The Power to End Stroke, Race for the Cure, Relay for Life, Lose to Win and Health & Spa Night.
POLITICAL AWARENESS & INVOLVEMENT
∆ Martin Luther King, Jr. – Peace Walk
SAC proudly participates in the planning of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Walk in Southfield, MI, celebrating the life and work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Peace Walk represents the revival of the historic Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade originally organized in Washington, D.C.
∆ Voting and the Census
SAC supports voter registration drives and other educational activities to ensure that the Southfield area community is registered and understands the importance of showing up to vote in every local, state and national election.
The chapter will be involved in “Being counted in the 2010 Census” activities to ensure that our community understand the importance of being counted through educational outreach about the process.
∆ Social Action & Political Awareness
SAC sponsors social action and political bipartisan educational forums featuring political candidates, pertinent proposals and discussion of community issues. SAC members participate yearly in legislative days at both the State and National capitols.
