Delta GEMS

Growing & Empowering Myself Successfully

gems

A natural outgrowth and expansion for the continuation of Delta Academy, the Delta GEMS program was created to catch the dreams of African American at-risk, adolescent girls aged 14-18. Delta GEMS provides the framework to actualize those dreams through the performance of specific tasks that develop a “can do” attitude.

The goals for Delta GEMS are:

  • To promote high levels of academic success
  • To assist young women in proper goal setting
  • To develop compassionate, caring community-minded young women with a “can do” attitude
  • To emphasize decision making and planning for the high school years and beyond

The Southfield Alumnae Chapter’s GEMS program begins its year in September with a retreat including icebreakers, team building, and goal setting activities. Sessions are held two to three times per month depending upon the planned activities. Workshops include but are not limited to Public Speaking, Career Fairs focusing on STEM careers, Financial Awareness, and Teen Domestic Violence. The young women participate in a wide array of community service projects e.g., packing food baskets for the needy, caroling at an Assisted Living Home, Vista Maria and the chapter’s annual health fair. Throughout the year, time is allotted for sisterhood outings. The yearly program ends in May with the GEMS closing banquet.

Criteria for Participation

Acceptance into the Delta GEMS program is held once a year. The following criteria will be used to determine eligibility:

  • Entering or attending high school in the fall (grades 9-11)
  • Must have a grade point average of 2.0 or better
  • Submit a completed application with a picture
  • Submit one (1) letter of recommendation from one of the following:
    • Teacher or Guidance Counselor
    • Employer
    • Minister
    • A Sponsor /Advisor of any affiliation/organization
    • A member of a Black Greek Letter Organization (BGLO) sorority or fraternity
  • Submit an official copy of final report card with Final GPA for the school year
  • Participate in the interview process
  • Submit with Parental Signature the “Agreement to Participate”
  • Submit with Parental Signature the “Code of Conduct”
  • Reside in the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Southfield Alumnae Chapter’s service area

There is an informational meeting held in April of each year, after which applications are accepted.  For additional information, please contact DeltaGems@deltasac.org.