Members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Hinesville Alumnae Chapter reported a successful 2007-08 fiscal year.
Ten members attended the 49th national convention July 24-30 in Orlando, Fla. More than 900 chapters from around the world were represented. The 12,228 attendees at the convention established the agenda to continue the mission of empowering communities through committed service.
For more than 20 years, the Hinesville chapter's humanitarian projects and projects they have collaborated with other organizations have empowered many and touched the lives of many in Liberty, Long and Wayne counties.
Members volunteered to help with the morning and afternoon shifts at the "Salute the Troops Air Show" and the Liberty Fest.
Delta DEARS, members 62 and older, and other Deltas participated in the annual "Walk to Dorchester." To help with the restoration of the historic Dorchester Academy, the sorority also makes an annual $1,000 contribution.
Deltas continue to support artists in their efforts to compose, write, direct, choreograph or come up with contributions in their fields. Deltas and the Georgia Council for the Arts presented a free "Red Pizzazz and All That Jazz" concert featuring the Anton Harris Quartet at the Dorchester Academy in Midway.
The chapter awarded the Annie B. Givens Scholarships to Liberty County High School seniors Shaquita Jones and Joycelyn Price; Bradwell Institute senior Dominique Everett, Wayne County High School senior Shante Sledge; and Long County High senior Laconya Cobb. The selections were based on test scores, letters of recommendations, applicant essays and financial needs.
Biannually, the local Deltas have a fundraiser, the Jabberwock, a potpourri of local talent and skits organized around a theme that gives many an opportunity to appear on stage. Local talent was showcased in Jabberwock 2008. Depicting the theme "The total woman: mind, body and spirit," the contestants and other local participants mesmerized the audience with dances, songs and recitations.
The sorority's new financial program aims to assist with decreasing wealth disparity. Delta's free financial seminar was held at Dorchester Academy. Attendees received information on topics like first-time home builders, budgeting and investing.
In an effort to stop child abuse and domestic violence, Deltas support programs that address these problems. The sorority bought flags for a "Field of Hope." This event displayed the flags on the grounds of the old Liberty Regional Medical Center. Each flag represented a confirmed incident of child abuse in Liberty County. Deltas also participated in the "Walk Against Domestic Violence" in downtown Hinesville.
Annually, Deltas assist with the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration. They prepare and serve food in a hospitality room. They also serve as escorts. Each year the sorority has an entry in the MLK parade.
This year the Jabberwock contestants paraded for the Deltas. In addition to service, a monetary donation is given each year to the King celebration.
This fall, Deltas will expand their commitment to public service. Young ladies, 14-18, are encouraged to enroll in Delta's newest component, Delta Academy 11: Delta GEMS (growing and empowering myself successfully. Applications for the GEMS will be available at school counselors' offices in Liberty, Wayne, and Long counties.
The next fiscal year for the Deltas begins Sept. 27. For more information call 884-2024.