International Program Update
2011 -2012
Brenda H. Smith, International Program Coordinator
2011-2011 International Program Update
Table of Contents
Cover
National Program Overview (International Program Coordinator)
Project Reassurance At-A-Glance
National Health Awareness Messages
2011 (September thru December)
2012 (January thru June) (2)
Project CRADLE Care
Project CRADLE Care Introductory Flyer
Introducing 1st Annual Prenatal Ed Fair: Agenda, Proclamation
Project CRADLE Care Survey
Sample Outreach Letter (word)
Project CRADLE Care Chapter Report (word)
Mwanamugimu Essay Theme & Research Topic
2012 Youth Symposium Packet
Introducing 15th Annual Youth Symposium
Agenda , Proclamation, Checklist, Report Form and Resource List
National Projects and Community Service Tracking Form, Purpose Scope & Instructions
Brenda H. Smith, International Program Coordinator
Greetings Sorors:
A new sorority year has begun and I know you are excited, fired-up and ready to uplift your
communities once again with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s international programs and
initiatives. To assist you with program planning, your regional coordinators and national program
chairpersons want to make certain that your chapter is on target, have a clear vision of the sorority’s
goals and the tools for a productive and successful year.
This year the sorority continues to enhance our Signature program, Project Reassurance, by
restructuring, improving what we have historically done, strengthening partnerships and forming new
ones. Our Theme, H3- It’s All About Me—Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations
encompasses all that we do locally, nationally and globally. We will be introducing a New Project
Reassurance; Healthy Generations Program called Project CRADLE Care at all Area meetings. Please
review the program materials enclosed to ask questions at your Area Meeting. The March of Dimes
continues to be our long term and renewed partner. So, find innovative ways to raise that $1922.00. The
National Health Awareness Messages will continue and the Project Reassurance Handbook has been
totally revised and is available on the national website. The 2012 Youth Symposium will add a new
partnership, Girl Scouts of the USA, to provide a team approach encouraging youth of color to explore
STEM related careers. I encourage alumnae chapters to include your undergraduate chapters in your
Youth Symposium planning. Our young Sorors have a wealth of knowledge, innovative ideas and
resources to tap into on the college campuses. The “Take 25” is another free resource provided by the
National Center of Missing and Exploited children available to help develop Big BookBag and other
community activities. Please engage our friends, the Philo affiliates in this program and others. Our
HIV/AIDS grant/partnership is doing well but it will require stepping it up a notch or two. You will hear
more about our HIV/AIDS grant requirements and our outreach with Project Africa and Haiti.
It is critical that in all activities you remember to, document, document, document. The end of the year
report reflects what your chapter has accomplished and the implementation of our national programs in
your community. It also affords Sigma Gamma Rho the opportunity to expand its outreach through
partnerships and grants. So, please be sure to capture everything you are doing. We are providing the
tools you need to make reporting as simple as possible. But if your chapter reports nothing, then you
need to reevaluate why. An African Proverb states: “A roaring lion kills no game”, Meaning: You cannot
gain anything by sitting around talking about it. You must get up and work for it. Every program does
not have to be carried out on a grand scale to be successful. Therefore, make the effort, do what you
can and be proud of it! This year on both the regional and national levels we will be recognizing and
celebrating chapters both large and small on national program accomplishments.
Thank you for your inquiries, your comments and constructive criticism. I want you to know we hear you
and we recognize all the wonderful things you are doing. Continue to let Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s
mission be demonstrated through what we do to enhance the quality of life within the community.
Make this year a year of community collaboration and local partnerships to boost your Chapter
programs.
PROJECT REASSURANCE AT –A- GLANCE AUGUST
Operation Big Book Bag / Take 25 – Planning Begins Wee Savers – Planning Begins
SEPTEMBER
TOM JOYNER’S TAKE A LOVED ONE TO THE DOCTOR DAY
Mwanimugimu – Essay Planning Begins
Fruits and Veggies – More Matters Month
OCTOBER
HATTIE MCDANIEL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH - BREAST CANCER UNITY PINK RIBBON DAY (OCTOBER 26, 2011)
National Drive Safely Work Week - Distracted Driving Prevention
Tom Joyner Virtual College Fair
NOVEMBER AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH
Prematurity Awareness Day Observance (November 18, 2011)
Mwanimugimu – Contest Starts
DECEMBER
WORLD AIDS DAY
JANUARY
PROJECT CRADLE CARE (JANUARY 21, 2012) - National Birth Defect Prevention Month
FEBRUARY
National Black HIV/AIDS Day Observance (February 7, 2012) National Donor Day (February 14)
MARCH YOUTH SYMPOSIUM (MARCH 10, 2012)
APRIL
MARCH FOR BABIES
National Autism Awareness Month
MAY
National Missing Children’s Day Observance (May 25, 2012) - Take 25 NATIONAL TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION MONTH
Mental Health Awareness Month
JUNE
National Men’s Health Week
Go to www.Sgrho1922.org for more detailed information
September 2011September 2011 Healthy Living: CDC Partnership Looking for a brighter future? Try eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables. The potential benefits associated with eating more fruits and vegetables stack up quickly: Reducing your risk of certain chronic diseases is only the beginning.
Fruits & Veggies-More Matters Month Go to www.fruitandveggiesmorematters.org Download healthy tips and recipes Add fruit and veggies to your monthly meeting menu Take small steps to add more fruits and veggies to your family meals Materials available at the CDC, contact Toni Eaton: [email protected]
Healthy Living: Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day Partnership Have you had your annual examination? Let your health be number one, then Pass-it-on.
September 30, 2011 Access Blackamericaweb.com Click “Make The Pledge” to take a loved one to the doctor
(Child, parent, sibling, friend) Complete requested information Select Sorority/Fraternity: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority and Submit Form
Live broadcast events in major cities near you!!! Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your health, the health of your children and
aging love ones. Commit to bringing a loved one to the doctor Tune-in every last Wednesday of the month for health topics on the Tom Joyner show
(May 1 –Sept. 30, 2011) Take 7 minutes in your monthly meeting to discuss ways to improve your health
The National Health Awareness Messages is a Project Reassurance health initiative designed to educate our sisterhood and
affiliates on health issues and observances, highlight international partnerships, and accentuate Sigma Gamma Rho’s H3
National Programs. Chapters are encouraged to use the monthly messages to heighten their knowledge and enhance
community service events. Select activities you feel your chapter can do. It is recommended that chapters dedicate at least
7 minutes during monthly meetings to discuss the health topics. Cheers…to a life time of healthy choices, healthy living,
and healthy generations! Be sure to review the PR AT-A-Glance for highlighted activities.
October 2011October 2011 Healthy Choices: Hattie McDaniel Breast Cancer Awareness Month Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in American women. According to the National Cancer Institute, women at the age of 40 and older should have a mammogram annually. Self-breast exams must be a routine. Are you adhering to the screening requirements for your age group?
Suggested Activities Unity Pink Ribbon Day (Oct. 26, 2011), Sorors, Philos and Rhoers wear pink ribbons and Sigma/Affiliate pin All chapters take 7 minutes in October’s meeting to discuss awareness, self-examination, and annual check-ups Partner with your local Cancer Society Distribute breast cancer awareness information Include information on male breast cancer awareness National Mammography Day (Oct 21, 2011) Download cancer awareness tips from SGRHO1922.org website
Healthy Choices: National Drive Safely Work Week There are three main types of distraction: Visual — taking your eyes off of the road; Manual — taking your hands off the wheel; Cognitive — taking your mind off what you’re doing. While all distractions can endanger drivers’ safety, texting is the most alarming because it involves all three types of distraction (U.S. Department of Transportation).
Healthy Choices: National Drive Safely Work Week - continued October 3 -7, 2011 Go to www.trafficsafety.org to download materials for DSWW 2010 & 2011 (2011 DSWW materials
available for download Aug. 2011) Refrain from texting and using hand-held devices while driving Place flyers in the workplace to support the week Download and distribute Sigma Gamma Rho’s Focused Driving Pledge Partner with local highway safety organizations Educate others on the dangers of distracted driving
Healthy Choices:Tom Joyner Virtual College Fair (Partnership) This event is a “one stop shop” experience for those who are interested in higher education and scholarships. Prepare teens for higher education early. Take them on a Virtual College tour.
Sigma Gamma Rho will be featured as a Tom Joyner Virtual College Fair “Partner of the Week” Target audience: Rhoer affiliates, undergrads, graduate sorors interested in higher education advancement
Access http://virtualcollegefair.blackamericaweb.com and have participants register for the appropriate category (i.e. student,
parent, counselor, etc.)
You may want to:
Coordinate your efforts with local middle/high schools, libraries, and partner colleges to attend the Virtual College Fair
Set up a laptop and have Rhoers list three colleges. Allow them to visit those colleges in the VCF.
November 2011November 2011
Healthy Generations: Prematurity Awareness Day (MOD Partnership) Every year, 20 million babies are born too soon, too small, and very sick. Half a million of them are in the United States. November is Prematurity Month. November 17, 2011 is Prematurity Awareness Day.
Suggested Activities Wear Purple Day– Every Monday in November (Project CRADLE Care
observance ) Have prenatal physician/nurse give a talk on Prematurity awareness Begin formation of 2012 March For Babies Teams Plans for Project CRADLE Care, Annual Prenatal Education Fair is well on its way (Jan. 21, 2012)
Healthy Choices: American Diabetes Month You can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes through a healthy lifestyle. Change your diet, increase your level of physical activity, maintain a healthy weight...with these positive steps, you can stay healthier longer and reduce your risk of diabetes (American Diabetes Association).
Suggested Activities Partner with your local Diabetes Association to get resources and materials
Host glucose testing and blood pressure checks in your community (contact local hospital
diabetic clinic/laboratory)
Take 7 minutes in your monthly meeting to have a sisterhood share
December 2011December 2011
Healthy Living: World AIDS Day December 1st (CDC Partnership) What is your HIV status? Get tested, increase your knowledge about HIV/AIDS, and help to dispel the myths. A3 for Life- Ask, Accept, Act.
Suggested Activities Partner with local AIDS Service Organizations or Health Departments Host HIV/AIDS awareness meetings, distribute information, provide local test
site Contact CDC for Sigma Gamma Rho/CDC co-branded materials Encourage chapter members, family and friends to get tested Record and document your chapter’s activities and forward to director Contact [email protected] for more information about training. Visit www.actagainstaids.org for partnership information and more resources.
Go to www.Sgrho1922.org for more detailed information
January 2012January 2012 Healthy Generations: National Birth Defect Prevention Month The causes of nearly two-thirds of all birth defects are unknown. To design effective prevention strategies, we must first have a better understanding of what risk factors are associated with birth defects.
National Birth Defect Prevention Month (March of Dimes Partnership) Log on to www.nbdpn.org/bdpm2012 to download the Preventing Birth Defects brochure, Ten things you need to know about
birth defects and Birth Defect Prevention Month posters. 2012 materials available soon. Save the date for your local ‚March for ‘Babies‛ Visit www.MarchforBabies.org and register your team under the name of Sigma Gamma
Rho Sorority Actively begin collecting pledges from family, friends, church members and co-workers.
These pledges will help your chapter to reach its $1922.00 goal. Use the tool provided on the MOD website using social media
Take care of last minute details for your Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair scheduled for Jan.21, 2012
Purchase yellow and blue diaper pins and attach one fact about birth defects and distribute at public gatherings. Include your Project Reassurance logo on information
Take seven minutes in your January sorority meeting and talk about Birth Defect Prevention
Healthy Generations: Project CRADLE Care Project CRADLE Care, A Project Reassurance Healthy Generations Program seeks to improve pregnancy outcomes in the community among women of childbearing age through assisting with prenatal education; Increase awareness and understanding among women of childbearing age regarding infant care and child development; and Collaborate with hospitals, managed care organizations, community-based prenatal care providers, churches, and other organizations.
1stAnnual Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair January 21, 2012 Download Project CRADLE Care Packet from the SGRHO1922.org Sorors Only Page
Partner with your local March of Dimes Chapter
Collaborate with your local hospitals and community-base prenatal care providers.
Use the sample outreach letter in your packet
Use the suggestive agenda or use your own but be sure to utilize your community
specialist for your panel
Secure sponsors for refreshments and request fair participants to provide give-a-
ways. List your fair participants and sponsors on your promotional material
Invite your local teen pregnancy agencies Pre and Post surveys are critical to the success of Project CRADLE Care Complete your Chapter Report form located in your packet and forward to your
regional program coordinator
The National Health Awareness Messages is a Project Reassurance health initiative designed to educate our sisterhood and
affiliates on health issues and observances, highlight international partnerships, and accentuate Sigma Gamma Rho’s H3
National Programs. Chapters are encouraged to use the monthly messages to heighten their knowledge and enhance
community service events. Select activities you feel your chapter can do. It is recommended that chapters dedicate at least
7 minutes during monthly meetings to discuss the health topics. Cheers…to a life time of healthy choices, healthy living,
and healthy generations! Be sure to review the PR AT-A-Glance for highlighted activities.
March 2012March 2012
Health Choices: STEMSTEM This year as a primary focus, under Healthy Choices, chapters should take the opportunity to encourage students to excel in or look at careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Nationally, we continue our partnership with the STEM program to promote math and the sciences, particularly among children of color. Additionally, we are teaming with the Girl Scouts of the USA and the National Science Foundation to utilize their program: ‚Imagine Engineering‛ a workshop, handbook series and website based tools. Meanwhile, Obesity continues to impacts children emotionally, psychologically, socially as well as physically. To further address this pressing issue, Healthy Living is the secondary theme of the 2012 Youth Symposium with a focus on Childhood Obesity.
Youth Symposium March 10, 2012 Download your Youth Symposium packets and flyer from the Sorors Only
section of the National Website, www.Sgrho1922.org Plan in advance and utilize the checklist provided to keep you on track Send Save the Date notifications from January to February Partner with local universities and National Society of Black/Hispanic Engineers/
Chemists to participate in the career fair Make ‚IMAGINE ENGINEERING‚ workshop part of your Youth Symposium. Go
to www.girlscouts.org/engineering and get complete workshop details Think outside of the box, make your event exciting and fun for youth and involve your undergraduate chapters Plan a college or career fair in addition to the STEM Panel Go to www.letsmove.gov/about.php for program information on First Lady Michelle Obama’s ‚Let’s Move‛ campaign Partner with community organizations and youth groups Work with our international partnerships to obtain interactive resources and materials Contact your state and local agencies on Childhood Obesity and the STEM program
February 2012February 2012
Healthy Living: National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (CDC Partnership) National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, February 7th of every year, is a national HIV
testing and treatment community mobilization initiative targeted at Blacks in the United
States. By race/ethnicity, African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV in the
United States (US).In 2006, the rate of new HIV infection for black women was nearly 15
times as high as that of white women and nearly 4 times that of Hispanic/Latina women.
National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (February 7) 2012 theme: ‚It takes a village to fight HIV/AIDS‛ Partner with your local AIDS Service Organizations or Health Departments on one of four specific focal points: education, testing, involvement and treatment. Distribute Sigma Gamma Rho/CDC co-branded awareness information at the workplace, college campuses and community gatherings Host activities with other African American organizations Be the example - Get tested and encourage others to get tested and know their status. To find a local testing site call 1-800-CDC-INFO, visit: www.hivtest.org,or text your zip code to Know IT (566948) Record the results of your HIV/AIDS activities to [email protected] reporting to the CDC
Healthy Choices: Bone Marrow Donor Program ‚Valentine’s Day is the gift of love and donation is the gift of life‛. National Donor Day is focused on five points of life: organs, tissues, marrow, platelets, and blood. As of February 1, 2010, there were 105,525 people waiting for an organ for transplant.
National Donor Day (February 14) Become an organ and/or tissue donor. There is a great need for minority marrow donors Register with your state donor registry Partner/volunteer with local Red Cross and/or National Marrow Donor Programs Host a blood or marrow donor registry drive on your college campuses Go to: www.organdonor.gov/student/activities for student interactive activities Take seven minutes in your monthly meeting to focus on raising awareness and encouraging
blood, marrow, organ and tissue donations For more suggestions go to: www.marrow.org , www.organdonor.gov or www.mottep.org
Go to www.Sgrho1922.org for more detailed information
April 2012April 2012 Healthy Generations: National Autism Awareness Month Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.
Suggested Activities Visit the CDC website about autism www.cdc.gov/autism. Partner or volunteer with your local Autism Society for resources and to help to inform the community
on signs and symptoms for early detection of autism. For more information and support go to www.autism-society.org
Take seven minutes in your monthly meeting and discuss Autism
Healthy Generations: March of Dimes (Partnership) When you walk in‛ March for Babies‛, you give hope to the more than half a million babies born too soon each year. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies,and it funds research to find answers to the problems that threaten our babies.
2012 March for Babies Visit www.MarchforBabies.organd register your team under the name of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Individual walkers register under your Sigma Gamma Rho team to get sponsor forms Continue to collect your pledges from your friends, family and co-workers. How close are you to your chapter’s goal? In addition to sponsorships and pledges, be creative in ways to raise funds such as movie night, bake sales or parties, etc. Design a Sigma Teamt-shirt (Sorors, Philos,Rhoers) or wear your favorite Sigma t-shirt at the walk Be creative and make a Sigma Gamma Rho support sign to walk with or post at the walk Take pictures to post on your webpage, Facebook or scrapbook and submit to ‚The Aurora‛ Get permission to collect donations (Rhoer Club) at your local department store or community gatherings. Purchase support buttons to give for the donations you receive Don’t forget to make copies of your final donation report to submit to your Syntaktes
The National Health Awareness Messages is a Project Reassurance health initiative designed to educate our sisterhood and
affiliates on health issues and observances, highlight international partnerships, and accentuate Sigma Gamma Rho’s H3
National Programs. Chapters are encouraged to use the monthly messages to heighten their knowledge and enhance
community service events. Select activities you feel your chapter can do. It is recommended that chapters dedicate at least
7 minutes during monthly meetings to discuss the health topics. Cheers…to a life time of healthy choices, healthy living,
and healthy generations! Be sure to review the PR AT-A-Glance for highlighted activities.
May 2012May 2012
Healthy Choices: National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy Teen pregnancy is not only a scary and life-changing event; it is also a nationwide problem. Our focus is three-fold; family and personal values, education, and communication.
National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month Distribute informational flyers stressing the importance of teaching family and personal values Download the National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month (NTPPM) Planning Guidebook(Pdf)
and materials from: www.advocatesforyouth.org Sponsor a parent’s night on how to talk about sex with children from elementary to high school on the appropriate level. Download teen friendly brochure and activities from http://www.thenationalcampaign.org for workshops Partner with your community health department and local organizations Sponsor positive self-esteem workshops for your Rhoer Affiliates
June 2012June 2012
Healthy Living: National Men’s Health "Recognizing and preventing men's health problems is not just a man's issue. Because of its impact on wives, mothers, daughters, and sisters, men's health is truly a family issue." Congressman Bill Richardson. Men's Health Week is celebrated each year as the week leading up to and including Father's Day. The purpose of Men's Health Week is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.
National Men’s Health Week (June 11-17) Go to www.menshealthmonth.org/week/ Partner with your local health agencies and the local barber shops Sponsor free health screenings Distribute health hints/tips to the men in your community. Make sure you end with ‚ Sigma Women care about your health‛ Sponsor a 1 mile couple walk. Every female has to find a male to walk with, young or old, (husband, son, brother, friend, father or co-worker). Prepare healthy snacks for the end of the walk. Have FUN!!
May 2012May 2012——continuedcontinued
Healthy Living: Mental Health Month Cope with stress. Improve your overall health, mood, productivity and relationships. Did you know that research suggests that people who feel connected are happier and healthier–and may even live longer?
Suggested Activities Go to www.livewell.org for invaluable information and ‚the ten tools‛ To help change moods, choose a target group within your chapter and
sponsor a ‚Thank you, Smile week‛. Have the group to be conscious of saying thank you and giving a smile to others often. At the end of the week, report on how it affected your mood. Share the info at your meeting
Host a workshop on stress management with speakers and/or panelists Plan a Girls Night Out or Spa Day to teach stress management techniques Encourage physical activities which statistics show to reduce stress
Healthy Generations Each year approximately 800,000 children are reported missing to law enforcement.
Approximately one in five of these children are African American. While the vast majority
of these children are recovered quickly, there are many who never return home. In 1983,
President Ronald Reagan declared May 25th as National Missing Children’s Day.
To commemorate this day, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
(NCMEC) launched Take 25, a national campaign encouraging parents, guardians,
communities, and others to take 25 minutes to talk to children about safety.
National Missing Children’s Day- May 25, 2012 (Partnership) To get started visit www.Take25.org and click on Add an Event. This will take you to a
form which asks some basic questions about your Take 25 event. Once your event has been entered you will receive a confirmation email
Within your confirmation email you will receive a link which prompts you to enter your event ID, log in and order your FREE resources
You can utilize ‚Take 25‛ resources in your chapters Operation BigBookBag event Distribute safety materials in local elementary schools, libraries, and/or hospitals Host safety presentations in local schools - visit www.NetSmartz.org/presentations for free
downloadable presentations Partner with local organizations or law enforcement to host a child ID event Work with your local elected official to issue a proclamation in support of National Missing Children’s Day Everything you need for a successful event is provided for you. Contact Chantay Carter, Special Program
Coordinator: [email protected] , 1.877.446. 2632 ext. 6448 or 703-837-6448
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
What is it?The Project Reassurance Healthy GenerationsSM–Project CRADLE Care is a prenatal education and incentive program that seeks to improve pregnancy outcomes in the community by increasing the number of women of childbearing age who get prenatal education and adequate prenatal care, and increase the number of women of childbearing age who have a better
understanding of infant care and child development.
Why is this important?According to the March of Dimes, one in eight babies is born too soon in America. Since the early ‘90s, the rate of premature birth has increased by 20 percent. Premature birth is the number one cause of death during the first month of life. Teenage pregnancy and parenthood are also a growing problem in America. About 13 percent of all birth defects affect babies born to very young ladies. Adolescent childbearing presents health risks to both mother and baby and had serious long-term consequences for teenagers, their
babies and society.
How can you make a difference?Annual Project CRADLE Care-Prenatal Education Fair • Annually, every 3rd Saturday in JanuaryAnnual March for Babies • Walk participation and fund-raising of $1,922 per chapterAnnual Prematurity Awareness Month/Day Observance • November 17thBirth Defect Awareness Month observance • JanuaryDonations • On-going fund-raising campaignWear Purple Day • Every Monday in November
About the Renewed PartnershipTo address the current needs of the community we serve, the partnership with the March of Dimes was renewed in 2010 under the Project Reassurance, Healthy Generations program and now operates as “Project CRADLE Care.”
Project CRADLE Care seeks to:• Improve pregnancy outcomes in the community among women of childbearing age through assisting with prenatal education and care.• Increase awareness and understanding among women of childbearing age regarding infant care and child development.• Collaborate with hospitals, managed care organizations, community- based prenatal care providers, churches, and other organizations.
About the Annual Kickoff Prenatal Education FairEvery 3rd Saturday in January, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. chapters will host a kickoff Prenatal Education Fair in conjunction with “National Birth Defects Awareness Month.” Suggested agenda and event plans can be found in this packet. This event requires community collaboration and partnerships.
Addressing Essential TopicsThis program is designed to address essential topics such as:• Post-natal concerns (e.g. emotional changes after pregnancy, mental wellness, physical wellness)• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)• Baby care 101 (e.g. early child development)• Common problems that complicate pregnancy (e.g. gestational diabetes, pre-term labor)• Preparing your body for a healthy baby (e.g. taking prenatal vitamins, regular check-ups, smoking cessation, HIV pre-treatment)• Your baby and HIV (e.g. HIV/AIDS education, awareness, prevention, and treatment)• Your baby’s health (e.g. immunizations, well-baby visits)
Reporting and Tracking EventsIt is very important to report and track all chapter events in order to measure the effectiveness of our service and to support our partnership with the March of Dimes. All events are important.
Therefore, reporting is essential for success.•Visit www.sgrho1922.org (Members Only Section) to retrieve the program resource packet, which contains programing and evaluation documents.•Report semi-annually to your Regional Program Coordinator (December and May).
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc .
International Corporate Headquarters
International Grand Basileus Joann Loveless / Executive Director Rachel Morris
To: All Graduate Chapters
From: International Grand Basileus Joann Loveless
Date: August 22, 2011
Subject: 1st Annual Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair
On January 21, 2012, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. alumnae chapters will simultaneously host the 1st Annual Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair with the theme of “H3: It’s all About Me – Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations.” Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is excited to announce that the March of Dimes is an official partner in promoting the health of our generations. One in 8 babies is born too soon in America. Since the early 90s, the rate of premature birth has increased by 20 percent. Premature birth is the number one cause of death during the first month of life, and about 13 percent of all birth defects affect babies born to very young mothers. Project Reassurance Healthy GenerationsSM: “Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair” is a prenatal education and resource program that seeks to improve pregnancy outcomes in high-risk communities by increasing the number of women of childbearing age who receive adequate prenatal education and prenatal care and who better understand proper infant care and child development. This annual event will take place every third Saturday in January in conjunction with National Birth Defects Awareness Month. It will provide a wealth of information, resources, and tools for women of childbearing age to help to ensure a healthy baby. This will be a community-based collaboration which will include hospitals, managed care organizations, community-based prenatal care providers, and special guest speakers. Our national agenda for the 2012 education fair provides for a forum through which our sorority and the community can work together to aid in increasing awareness and providing education and resources on prenatal care and healthy babies, which is a focal point of Project Reassurance. The education fair will provide information that will help the women in our communities make positive choices and healthy decisions as it relates to the care of their unborn child.
Founded 1922
The program is multifaceted and designed to include the following:
Annual Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair – Annually every 3rd Saturday in January
Annual March for Babies – Walk participation and fundraising of $1,922 per chapter
Annual Prematurity Awareness Month/Day observance – November 17th
Birth Defects Awareness Month observance– January
Donations – ongoing fundraising campaign
Wear Purple Day – Every Monday in November This program is designed to address essential topics such as:
Post-natal concerns (i.e. emotional changes after pregnancy, mental wellness, physical wellness)
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Baby care 101 (e.g. early child development)
Common problems that complicate pregnancy (e.g. gestational diabetes, preterm labor)
Preparing your body for a healthy baby (e.g. taking prenatal vitamins, regular check-ups, smoking cessation, HIV pre-treatment)
Your baby and HIV (e.g. HIV/AIDS education, awareness, prevention and treatment)
Your baby’s health (e.g. immunizations, well-baby visits) It is very important to report and track all chapter events in order to measure the effectiveness of our service and to support our partnership with the March of Dimes. All events are important. Therefore, reporting is essential for success.
Visit www.sgrho1922.org/ProjectReassurance to retrieve the program resource manual, which contains programming and evaluation documents.
Report semi-annually to your Regional Program Coordinator (December, May).
Regional Coordinators will compile and report to MOD chairperson.
International MOD will compile and report to International Grand Basileus and March of Dimes Liaison.
A sample form can be found in this packet.
Please contact the March of Dimes Liaison, International Program Coordinator, or your respective regional programs coordinator with questions or requests for resources that will assist your chapter in the planning and implementation process.
Coordinator’s Name Position Contact Information
Soror Brenda H. Smith International Programs Coordinator [email protected] or [email protected]
Soror Alexandria Crumble-Walker, PharmD. Central Region Coordinator [email protected]
Soror Sandre Mitchell Northeast Region Coordinator [email protected]
Soror Keisha Simmons Southeast Region Coordinator [email protected]
Soror Janice Gaiter Southwest Region Coordinator [email protected]
Soror Ashley Hopkins Western Region Coordinator [email protected]
Soror Alice Cryer-Sumler, Ph.D. March of Dimes Liaison [email protected]
PROCLAMATION
“SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC. HEALTHY GENERATIONS DAY”
JANUARY 21, 2012
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., is a 90,000-member nonprofit collegiate sorority dedicated to the
encouragement and promotion of high scholastic attainment, community service, and improvement in the quality of
life through its chapters, members, and affiliates located throughout the United States, Korea, Bermuda, Bahamas,
Germany and the Caribbean; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., through its mission seeks to address programs, projects, and
concerns that impact society educationally, socially, politically, and economically; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is sponsoring its First Annual Project CRADLE Care Prenatal
Education Fair as a component of the Project Reassurance Healthy Generations Program simultaneously in local
communities across the nation on Saturday, January 21, 2012; and
WHEREAS: the local members of ____________________________ Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.,
will hold their Fair on January 21, 2012 at _____________________________________________________(location); and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., through this year’s nationwide agenda, will seek to improve
pregnancy outcomes in the community by increasing the number of women of childbearing age who get prenatal
education and adequate prenatal care, and increase the number of women of childbearing age who have a better
understanding of infant care and child development; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., has called upon the participation of community topic experts,
organizations, and agencies to share facts regarding some of the consequences that may be faced by women of
childbearing age; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., is requesting all area junior/senior high schools,
sororities/fraternities, social/civic organizations, and women services agencies to support the intent of this fair by
promoting their attendance and participation:
NOW, THEREFORE, I _______________________________________, Mayor of the City of _______________, do hereby
proclaim SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 2012, to be SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY HEALTHY GENERATIONS
DAY in the City of ______________________________.
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that our residents join with me in congratulating and recognizing the members of
_________________________________________ Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., for their efforts to
educate and empower our youth and our women and aids in ensuring healthy babies, particularly those born to very
young mothers. As such, we wish for the chapter and the sorority much success in all of their future endeavors.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I HAVE SET AND CAUSED TO BE AFFIXED THE OFFICIAL SEAL OF THE CITY OF
_________________________, STATE OF ________________. DONE THIS _______ DAY OF ____________, 2012, A.D.
_________________________, MAYOR
NATIONWIDE AGENDA
A PRENATAL EDUCATION FAIR FOR WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE
H3: IT’S ALL ABOUT ME
HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIVING, HEALTHY GENERATIONS
Being Simultaneously Held Nationwide by Graduate Chapters of
SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 2012
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Registration/Pre-Survey
Pledge of Allegiance
Prayer for Our Future Generations
Welcome / Purpose
Reading of Proclamation
Acknowledgment of Attendees and Sponsors
10:15 AM – 12:15 PM Prenatal Education Fair
Lunch (brown bag)
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Panel Discussion
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM H3 Pledge, Certificates, Drawings, Surveys
Recommended Panelist Recommended Fair Participants
OB/GYN March of Dimes Women’s Hospital Services
Neonatologist Local Child Safety Council Children’s Services Agencies
Pediatrician Local Health Unit Baby Formula Companies
Pharmacist Nutritional Services Photographers
Psychologist Prenatal Massuese Baby Product Companies
Nurse
Midwife
This fair emanates from
PROJECT REASSURANCE HEALTHY GENERATIONS - An International Service Project Sponsored by
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in conjunction with the March of Dimes
SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.
2012 PRENATAL EDUCATION FAIR - MARKETING GUIDELINES
The Grand Epistoleus will distribute public service announcements (PSAs) and press releases about the
Annual Prenatal Education Fair in the coming months. To ensure that the event is presented and branded in
a consistent manner, a general or “donut” press release will be sent to local chapters. The local and regional
Epistolei are encouraged to use the national template, and simply add their local contact and event
information.
Press releases and PSAs will be available 6-8 weeks prior to the event and other collateral materials will be
forthcoming as well. To stay abreast of all material and updates regarding national programs, Epistolei
should register at www.sgrhoepistoleus.org for further information.
General Planning Checklist
This document outlines the high-level actions to be taken. Form committees to outline the more detailed
steps.
_____ Confirm Education Fair location
_____ Secure sponsors (financial and/or in-kind services) for refreshments, publicity, etc.
_____ Contact local radio/TV stations to create partnerships
_____ Confirm the Education Fair speakers and other participants
_____ Promote the Education Fair and cultural performances using all marketing mediums
available
_____ Order co-branded material from National Partners; March of Dimes, CDC, etc….
_____ Contact and send flyers to schools, women shelters, and all community service
organizations that work with youth and women
______ Send PSAs and announcements to local newspapers, television and radio stations
_____ Arrange for refreshments (through sponsorship or in-kind services) for the Education Fair,
awards for contest participants and gifts for program participants
_____ Complete as appropriate and send Proclamation to your local mayor’s office. Use personal
contact where available and be sure to follow up.
____ Arrange for professional photography for the Education Fair
_____ Conduct Annual Prenatal Education Fair
_____ Survey attendees as they arrive and at the conclusion of the program. The survey forms are
available on the Sorority’s website or by contacting the international headquarters office
_____ Send letters of thanks to all sponsors and partners
_____ Create and submit press release and photos to local newspapers and The AURORA.
Please be sure to include the names of all sponsors/partners
_____ Complete and submit the Event Report Form to our international headquarters office
_____ Send copies of all publicity (newspaper articles, The AURORA) to your sponsors/partners
Resources
1. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
1-877-696-6775 www.hhs.gov 2. State & City - Department of Health (depends of individual states & cities) 3. March of Dimes National Office- General inquiries (914) 997-4488 www.marchofdimes.com 4. March of Dimes – local chapters www.marchofdimes.com (find specific state and local chapter) 5. The American Academy of Pediatrics – National Headquarters
(847) 434-4000 www.aap.org 6. Mother and Baby Mobile Health Unit (depends on state) Search – Mobile Health Units 7. Local healthcare providers for mothers and babies (hospitals and community clinics) (Search – local healthcare providers) 8. HIV testing for mothers & newborns in the United States – Kaiser Family (202) 347-5270 www.statehealthfacts.org
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
(800) 232-4636
www. [email protected]
10. The National Women’s Health Information Center, U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services – Office of Women’s Health
(800) 994-9662
www/womenshealth.gov/faq/prenatal-care.cfm
Page 1 of 7
Project CRADLE Care Prenatal Education Fair
Evaluation Process
Pre Event
Sorors review survey instructions
Prenatal Education Fair Registration
Have a pre-printed registration form (Name, address, e-mail)
Issue to attendees an agenda and Project CRADLE Care Brochure
Conduct pre-event surveys
Post Event
Conduct post-event surveys
Compile data on collection form
Page 2 of 7
Greetings Sorors,
As an evaluation tool to measure the success of Project CRADLE Care, a component of Project Reassurance, Healthy Generations, chapters are asked to conduct surveys to ensure that the program will meet its objectives of:
1. Helping participants understand how to improve pregnancy outcomes through access to early and regular prenatal care and education
2. Providing increased awareness and understanding regarding infant care and child development 3. Ensuring that participants understand that good choices will result in healthy generations 4. Helping participants identify resources available to them
As this is an opportunity to share the spirit of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., we have also included a question on the post-survey to learn what the participants have learned about Sigma Gamma Rho.
Basic Information about the Surveys: The participants will take the pre-program survey prior the program. The participants will take the post-program survey after the session and will have the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned from the program by listing examples on their post-program surveys. Sorors will gather the information from all surveys and record the results onto the Prenatal Education Survey. Sorors should set aside 10 minutes both at the beginning and end of the program for survey completion. As the participants might be anxious to be released from the program, please encourage the participants to complete the surveys.
Ensuring a Smooth Surveying Process: 1. Prior to the event, it is strongly suggested that the content of the session and the purpose of the surveys are
conveyed to participants and guests. You may also read the sorority’s mission statement and short history of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority and the March of Dimes partnership.
2. Before the surveys have been distributed, it is strongly suggested that basic instructions are given to the group as a whole. Here are some suggested talking points:
To measure the success of our program, we will be conducting a “before” and “after” survey. Each survey should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete.
The results of this survey will be used to measure how successful our program was in meeting our objectives. This will also provide feedback to our chapter and our sorority on how we can enhance our program.
We assure total confidentiality of your responses. These are anonymous surveys, so please do not write your names on the surveys.
If there are any parents/guardians in the room, you may determine whether or not your child may complete the surveys. Again, we assure you that these are only tools to determine how successful we completed our project and how successful we were in meeting our objectives.
3. After the surveys have been completed, you should compile/collect them in such a way to ensure anonymity. It is also a good idea to collect as many pre-surveys as post-surveys and to encourage everyone to complete both surveys. We have provided a guide for data collection to help you through the process of evaluation.
Best wishes for a successful Project CRADLE Care - Prenatal Education Program! If you have any questions, you can feel free to contact your regional program coordinator or me for questions and/or additional information. Sisterly, Soror Brenda Smith, International Programs Chair
H3: It’s All About Me – Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations
Page 3 of 7
Pre Survey
Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. welcomes your feedback and your answers will be kept confidential. Thank you for your participation.
General Information
Please check your age range.
11-17 18-24 25-31 32+
Tell Us What You Know How much do you know about preparing your body for a healthy baby?
I know a LOT about
preparing my body
for a healthy baby
I know SOMETHING about preparing my
body for a healthy baby I am not sure
I know VERY LITTLE about preparing my
body for a healthy baby
I don’t KNOW ANYTHING about
preparing my body
for a healthy baby
How well can you make Healthy Choices for yourself and an unborn baby?
I can DEFINITELY make healthy choices for
myself and my unborn baby
I can SOMEWHAT make healthy choices for
myself and my unborn baby
I am not sure
I can HARDLY EVER make healthy choices for either myself or an
unborn baby
I can NEVER make healthy choices for either myself or an
unborn baby
How much do you know about places where to find information about prenatal and postnatal resources?
I know a LOT about places where I can find
information
I know SOMETHING about places where I
can find information
I am not sure I know VERY LITTLE about places where I
can find information
I don’t KNOW ANYTHING about places
where I can find information
What is your gender? Please check one that best describes you.
Male Female Mother Mother-to-be Father Soror/Philo Guest
Page 4 of 7
Tell Us What You Plan to Do How likely are you to share the information you learn today with someone else, such as your friends and family?
I will DEFINITELY share this information with
others
I MIGHT share this information with others
I am not sure I probably WON’T share
this information with
others
I will NOT share this information with others
Tell Us What You Think
Do you think this program will have a positive impact on you?
Yes No
Page 5 of 7
H3: It’s All About Me – Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations
Post Survey
Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. welcomes your feedback and your answers will be kept confidential. Thank you for your participation.
General Information
What is your gender? Please check one that best describes you.
Male Female Mother Mother-to-be Father Soror/Philo Guest
Please check your age range.
11-17 18-24 25-31 32+
Tell Us What You Know
How much do you know about preparing your body for a healthy baby?
I know a LOT about
preparing my body for a healthy baby
I know SOMETHING about preparing my body for a healthy
baby
I am not sure
I know VERY LITTLE about preparing my body for a healthy
baby
I don’t KNOW ANYTHING about
List ways that you can prepare your body for a healthy baby.
How well can you make Healthy Choices for yourself and your unborn baby?
I can DEFINITELY make healthy choices
for myself and my unborn baby
I can SOMEWHAT make healthy choices
for myself and my unborn baby
I am not sure
I can HARDLY EVER make healthy choices
for myself and my unborn baby
I can NEVER make healthy choices for
myself and my unborn baby
List healthy choices you will start making today.
Page 6 of 7
How much do you know about places to find information about prenatal and postnatal resources?
I know a LOT about places where I can
find information
I know SOMETHING about places where I can find information
I am not sure I know VERY LITTLE about places where I can find information
I don’t KNOW ANYTHING about
places where I can find information
List examples of good resources
Tell Us What You Plan to Do How likely are you to share the information you learn today with someone else, such as your friends and family?
I will DEFINITELY share this information
with others
I MIGHT share this information with others
I am not sure I probably WON’T
share this information with others
I will NOT share this information with
others
List information you will share.
Tell Us What You Think
Do you think this program will have a positive impact on you?
Yes No
Page 7 of 7
Give examples of how this program will positively impact your life.
Project CRADLE Care What have you learned about Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority today?
Thank you for taking the time to fill out our survey. Your input is greatly appreciated.
Sample Outreach Letter
(Name of Supporter)
(Title)
(Company Name)
(Street Address)
(City, State ZIP)
Dear (Supporter Name):
Did you know that one in 8 babies is born too soon in America? In fact, since the early 90s, the rate of
premature birth has increased by 20 percent. Because of this, premature birth is the number one cause
of death during the first month of life. And, about 13 percent of all birth defects affect babies born to
very young mothers. We know that we can do something about this.
On January 21, 2012, the 3rd
Saturday of January, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. alumnae chapters will
simultaneously host the first annual prenatal education fair with the theme of “H3: It’s all About Me –
Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations.”
Project Reassurance Healthy GenerationsSM
: “Project CRADLE Care, Prenatal Education Fair” is a
prenatal education and resource program that seeks to improve pregnancy outcomes in high-risk
communities by increasing the number of women of childbearing age who receive adequate prenatal
education and prenatal care and who better understand proper infant care and child development.
This annual event will take place every third Saturday in January in conjunction with National Birth
Defects Awareness Month. It will provide a wealth of information, resources, and tools for women of
childbearing age to help to ensure a healthy baby. This will be a community-based collaboration which
will include hospitals, managed care organizations, community-based prenatal care providers, and
special guest speakers.
This year (Other Partner Organizations) will join us at (Location Name), located at (Location address) on
Saturday, (Date) from (Time) as a community partner. We are requesting your organization’s presence
and expertise as well.
We are excited to begin this partnership and look forward to working with you to promote healthy
babies. Should you have any questions or need further information please feel free to contact me at
(Phone Number) or (E-Mail Address). We look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
(Name),
(Chapter), Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
SSIIGGMMAA GGAAMMMMAA RRHHOO PPRROOJJEECCTT CCRRAADDLLEE CCAARREE CCHHAAPPTTEERR RREEPPOORRTT
Chapter Region
Location Reporter
Name of Committee Chairperson
Names of Committee Members
Event Location & Address
Number of Attendees
Total Male Ages 11-17 Ages 18-24 Ages 25-31 Ages 32+
Total Female Ages 11-17 Ages 18-24 Ages 25-31 Ages 32+
Partnerships
Organization # Participants Type of Participation
Yes No
Did your chapter partner with the local March of Dimes?
If so, What Branch?
Did your chapter receive donations for this event?
Monetary Value In Kind Items
Cash or In Kind
List the CRADLE Care event Panelists and Speakers
Name Occupation Agency Topic/Workshop
Survey Results (Surveys are available on the National Website Soror Only Section)
# Pre Event Surveys Completed # Post Event Surveys Completed
Using the survey results, please note the number of participants who demonstrated or communicated at
the conclusion of the program an increased knowledge, understanding, judgment and ability to identify
resources based on the following program objectives:
• How to prepare their bodies for a healthy baby
• How to make healthy choices for themselves and future generations
• How to prevent HIV transmission from mother to child
• Available resources for themselves or others
• How to improve pregnancy outcomes
• Have an understanding of infant care and child development
$
Please answer the following questions. Use additional sheets if necessary
• How did your program specifically address each of the objectives listed above?
• What was successful about your program?
• What opportunities exist for improvement?
• Do you feel this forum is an effective communication and educational tool for our targeted
audience? If yes, why? If not, what can we do to enhance the program?
Program Chair ______________________________ Date ___________________
Chapter Basileus ______________________________ Date ___________________
This form will be used to report all Project CRADLE Care activities. Please submit this report via email to your regional programs
coordinator and to [email protected], by fax to (919)678-9721 or by mail to national headquarters.
If available, also include a copy of your Symposium Agenda and any other promotional items, news release, photographs, etc.
Chairperson Mwanamugimu Guidebook located Dianna Davis-Bailey www.Sgrho1922.org (members only) [email protected]
MWANAMUGIMU ESSAY
THEME
&
RESEARCH TOPICS (2010-2012)
Theme: Our International Responsibility:
Are We Our Brothers and Sisters’ Keepers?
Research Topics
The Impact of Teenage Pregnancy and the Family Unit
The Effects of Growing Up as a Single Mother in Africa Compared to a
Single Mother in the United States
Healthy Living: Health Care Crisis Around the World
Healthy Generations: Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy Here and There –
Where Do We Stand?
Social Consequences of Teen Pregnancy in Africa
Teen Prevention Programs in Africa and America
Healthy Choices: The People of Africa – Cultural Differences in Basic Needs
MWANAMUGIMU: From Small Acorns, Grow Mighty Oaks (African Proverb)
2012 Youth Symposium
Packet
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc .
International Corporate Headquarters
International Grand Basileus Joann Loveless / Executive Director Rachel Morris
To: All Graduate Chapters
From: International Grand Basileus Joann Loveless
Date:
Subject: 15th Annual Adolescent Youth Symposium
On March 10, 2012, the 2nd Saturday of March, which is commemoratively set within Sigma Week, Sigma Gamma
Rho Sorority, Inc. alumnae chapters will once again unite under “One Vision, One Path and One Sisterhood” to
simultaneously host the “It’s in the Bag” Youth Symposiums across the nation with the theme of “H3: It’s all About
Me – Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations.” The goal for the Nationwide Youth Symposium is to
provide a forum for our sorority and the community to work together to aid in reducing the chance of teen
pregnancy, and to present workshops that help our young people cope with challenges related to improving their
self-esteem and in making positive choices and decisions on a daily basis.
Healthy Choices: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
Sigma Gamma Rho has partnered with the National STEM program to
promote math and the sciences, particularly among children of color as the
primary focus of the 2012 Nationwide Youth Symposium. Chapters should
take the opportunity to encourage students to excel in or look at careers in
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. As part of the partnership with
STEM, chapters can tap into the materials available through the Girl Scouts of the USA Imagine Engineering
Program which offers downloads about science careers and creative interactive workshop ideas. Check out the
Imagine Engineering website for more information http://www.girlscouts.org/imagineengineering/.
Healthy Living: Childhood Obesity
In addition to the primary focus on STEM, we will once again address the issue of childhood obesity, which remains
one of the main challenges facing young people today. Obesity impacts children emotionally, psychologically,
socially as well as physically. Chapters can utilize Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” program to promote physical
activity and healthy eating habits.
Healthy Generations: Take 25
Schedule time to Take 25 minutes to provide online safety education to students using the NetSmartz kit, provided
by Sprint and the NetSmartz Workshop. Kits can be ordered from the NCMEC - http://www.take25.org/
YOUTH SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM
As part of our effort to present a consistent brand across the nation, each symposium should consist of the
following activities:
STEM Imagine Engineering Workshop – Use the Girls Scout of the USA workshop materials and ideas
STEM Panel - Partner with businesses/organizations in the science and math fields
Topic Workshops - Choose one topic from the theme areas below:
Healthy Choices
Choosing Me: Teen pregnancy prevention and self esteem
Choosing Wisely: National Highway Traffic Safety - Distracted Driving Prevention
Choosing Wealth: Wee Savers
Choosing Me: Coping with Abuse and Neglect
Healthy Living
Exercise For Life : Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move Campaign
Positive Lifestyle - Eating for Life: 50 Million Pound Challenge, Hattie McDaniel Health Initiative
The Gift of Life: National Marrow Donor Program
Saving a Life: CDC – Act Against Aids Campaign (HIV/AIDS)
Healthy Generations
Me, Future Mom: Teenage pregnancy and prenatal care
My Baby’s Future: Healthy baby services
My Future Career: Operation BigBookBag – Education and Literacy
My Future World: Environmental Awareness – “Going Green”
We recommend that the afternoon session of the 2012 symposium feature a panel that may include participants
from the list of organizations attached. Also, each chapter should host a college fair and/or career fair as a part of
the symposium. Please note that the overarching goal of the symposium is to prevent teen pregnancy, so you may
wish to include a local youth panelist who is currently pregnant or has a child(ren) and is willing to offer her
perspectives on why she became pregnant and how her life has changed as a result.
At the conclusion of the program, we are asking each participant to recite the H3 Pledge. In an effort to secure the
buy-in of youth in your local area, chapters may include a youth performance in the program. Participants can
perform rap, spoken word, dance, step or any other type of artistic expression that is in keeping with the “Healthy
Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations” theme.
During your activities, please take time to honor past Grand Basileus Dr. LaRona J. Morris, the originator of this
nation-wide program.
Enclosed for your guidance are:
A general checklist for Youth Symposium Planning;
The nationwide agenda for the Youth Symposium;
A Project Reassurance Resource list to provide you with ideas for securing both local speakers and materials
for distribution;
A sample proclamation to be completed and provided for your Mayor to proclaim March 12, 2011 to be Sigma
Gamma Rho Youth Day in your respective city
A marketing guideline to keep you on track (How to , When to, Where to)
The Chapter Report Form for completion and submission following your event
A sample flyer and the Project Reassurance Booklet will be available for download at www.sgrho1922.org in the
“Sorors Only” section starting October 15, 2011. Because the symposium is a spin-off from OPERATION
BigBookBag, you may wish to give thought to some of the planning tips and ideas below:
Location - Select a popular location with easy access e.g., civic/youth center, church hall, school, etc.
Partnership - When possible, invite local representatives from our national partners to host an informational table at
the event to promote their youth related activities and services. If they are not able to attend, consider providing
brochures or contact information to attendees for the following groups in support of their initiatives: March of Dimes,
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, STEM,
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Girl Scouts of America
Marketing - Be sure to invite and include the participation of your Rhoers, Philos and undergraduates, as well as
that of your fellow Greeks. Use social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to promote the event. Also,
contact your local schools, churches, and other organizations to invite the participation of their youth groups.
Sorors, Philos, family members, and friends who work in the schools or with youth groups make excellent contact
persons for assisting in encouraging the participation of their youth.
Branding - To expose the sorority even further, set up a display that will highlight some of the chapter’s community
involvement. Especially try to focus the display on those programs, projects, and activities that involve our youth,
e.g., the Rhoer Club; Project Reassurance; Project Mwanamugimu; Project WeeSavers; OPERATION
BigBookBag; Hattie McDaniel Cancer Awareness and our local, regional, and national scholarship programs.
Sponsorship - To obtain potential funding for your refreshments and to secure possible attendance prizes, seek
support from local community entities, e.g., bank, utility companies, newspapers, major corporations, governmental
agencies, civic organizations, social service agencies, department stores, chain restaurants, etc. Let them know
that you will acknowledge their support during the symposium and through your culminating news coverage.
Have all youth attendees complete the pre and post Symposium surveys which are available on the Sorority’s
website in the “Sorors Only” section or by contacting the international headquarters office. The data secured via the
surveys is necessary to complete your chapter’s Youth Symposium Report Form.
We thank you and look forward to receiving your report on the success of your symposium. Submit your report via
email to [email protected] or via hard copy to international headquarters. If available, also include a
copy of your Symposium Agenda and any other promotional items, press releases, photographs, etc. Contact your
regional syntaktes or the Sigma Gamma Rho headquarters office if you have questions.
cc: Rachel Morris
Enclosures: Planning Checklist
Nationwide Agenda
Sample Proclamation
Marketing guide timeline
Chapter Report Form
Project Reassurance Resource List
PROCLAMATION “SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY YOUTH DAY”
March 10, 2012
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., is a 90,000-member nonprofit collegiate sorority dedicated to the
encouragement and promotion of high scholastic attainment, community service, and improvement in the quality of life through its
chapters, members, and affiliates located throughout the United States, Korea, Bermuda, Africa, Bahamas, Germany and the
Caribbean; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., through its mission seeks to address programs, projects, and concerns
that impact society educationally, socially, politically, and economically; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is sponsoring its Fifteenth Annual Adolescent Youth Symposium
simultaneously in local communities across the nation on Saturday, March 10, 2012; and
WHEREAS: the local members of ____________________________ Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., will hold
their symposium on March 10, 2012 at _________________________________________
_________________________________________________(location); and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., through this year’s nationwide symposium agenda, will seek to help
youths come to grips with peer-pressuring challenges that may deal with making healthy choices, healthy living, healthy generation; and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., has called upon the participation of a panel of community authorities to
share facts regarding some of the consequences that may be faced by young people who have self esteem and peer pressure issues;
and
WHEREAS: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., is requesting all area junior/senior high schools, sororities/fraternities,
social/civic organizations, and youth services agencies to support the intent of this symposium by promoting the attendance and
participation of their students and youth groups:
NOW, THEREFORE, I _______________________________________, Mayor of the City of _______________, do hereby
proclaim SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2012, to be SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY YOUTH DAY Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in
the City of ______________________________.
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that our residents join with me in congratulating and recognizing the members of
_________________________________________ chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., for their efforts to encourage and guide our
youths. As such, we wish for the chapter and the sorority much success in all of their future endeavors.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I HAVE SET AND CAUSED TO BE AFFIXED THE OFFICIAL SEAL
OF THE CITY OF ________________________________, STATE OF ________________.
DONE THIS _________DAY OF __________________, 2010, A.D.
_____________________________________________________
MAYOR
SSIIGGMMAA GGAAMMMMAA RRHHOO SSOORROORRIITTYY,, IINNCC..
NATIONWIDE AGENDA
IITT’’SS IINN TTHHEE BBAAGG –– AA SSYYMMPPOOSSIIUUMM FFOORR YYOOUUNNGG PPEEOOPPLLEE
H3: IT’S ALL ABOUT ME : HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIVING, HEALTHY GENERATIONS
SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2012
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Pledge of Allegiance
Prayer for Our Youth
Welcome / Purpose
Reading of Proclamation
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM Healthy Choices - STEM Imagine Engineering Workshop/Presentation
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM Healthy Living
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Healthy Generations
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM Refreshments and Youth Entertainment
12:45 PM – 1:30 PM STEM Panel Discussion
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM H3 Pledge, Certificates, Drawings, Surveys
A Project Reassurance: OPERATION BIGBOOKBAG
International Service Project
SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC.
2012 NATIONWIDE YOUTH SYMPOSIUM
GGEENNEERRAALL PPLLAANNNNIINNGG CCHHEECCKKLLIISSTT
This document outlines the high-level actions to be taken. Form committees to outline the more detailed steps.
_____ Contact local radio and television stations to create partnership
_____ Secure sponsors (financial and/or in-kind services) for refreshments, publicity, etc.
_____ Confirm Youth Symposium location
_____ Confirm Youth Symposium speakers and other participants (consider using the enclosed resource list as
a starting point) and secure handouts. Undergraduates are also great participants as teens are often
more likely to listen to that age group than alumnae and community authorities.
_____ Promote Youth Symposium and cultural performances using all print, electronic and on-air media
available. Also contact and send flyers to schools and all community service organizations that work with
teens – don’t forget your Rhoers.
______ Send PSAs and announcements to local newspapers, television and radio stations
_____ Arrange for refreshments (through sponsorship or in-kind services) for the Youth Symposium, awards for
contest participants and gifts for program participants
_____ Fill-in as appropriate and send Proclamation to your local mayor’s office. Use personal contact where
available and be sure to follow up.
____ Arrange for professional photography for the Youth Symposium
_____ Conduct Youth Symposium. Be sure to survey the youth attendees as they arrive and at the conclusion
of the program. The survey forms are available on the Sorority’s Web site or by contacting the
international headquarters office.
_____ Send letters of thanks to all sponsors and partners
_____ Create and submit press release and photos to local newspapers and The AURORA. Please sure to
include the names of all sponsors/partners.
_____ Complete and submit the Youth Symposium Report Form to our international headquarters office
_____ Send copies of all publicity (newspaper articles, The AURORA) to your sponsors/partners
SSIIGGMMAA GGAAMMMMAA RRHHOO YYOOUUTTHH SSYYMMPPOOSSIIUUMM CCHHAAPPTTEERR RREEPPOORRTT 22001122
Chapter Region
Location Reporter
Event Location & Address
Number of Attendees Total Male Ages 11-13 Ages 14 -15 Ages 16-18 Ages 19+ Total Female Ages 11-13 Ages 14 -15 Ages 16-18 Ages 19+
Partnerships
Organization # Participants Type of Participation
Did your chapter incorporate any other National Program(s) into the symposium? Wee Savers Distracted Driving A3 4 Life Donor Program Mwanimugimu Big Book Bag Hattie McDaniel Cancer Awareness
Did your chapter receive donations for this event?
Monetary Value In Kind Items Cash or In Kind
List the Symposium Panelists and Speakers
$
Name Occupation Agency Topic/Workshop
Survey Results (Surveys are available on the National Website Soror Only Section)
# Pre Event Surveys Completed # Post Event Surveys Completed
Using the survey results, please note the number of youth participants who demonstrated or communicated at the conclusion of the Symposium an increased knowledge, understanding, judgment and ability to identify resources based on the following Youth Symposium program objectives:
How to prevent teen pregnancy
How to make healthy choices for themselves and future generations
Desire to pursue career in Math or the Sciences
Available resources for themselves or others
Please answer the following questions. Use additional sheets if necessary
How did your symposium specifically address each of the objectives listed above?
What was successful about your symposium?
What opportunities exist for improvement?
Do you feel the National Youth Symposium is an effective communication and educational tool for youth? If yes, why? If not, what can we do to enhance the program?
If your chapter hosted a Hip Hop contest, who was the outcome and the name of the winner?
Was the theme clearly communicated in the participant’s submission?
Program Chair ______________________________ Date ___________________ Chapter Basileus ______________________________ Date ___________________
Please submit this report via email to [email protected], by fax to (919)678-9721 or by mail to national headquarters. If available, also include a copy of your Symposium Agenda and any other promotional items, news release, photographs, etc.
PPRROOJJEECCTT RREEAASSSSUURRAANNCCEE RREESSOOUURRCCEE LLIISSTT
The March of Dimes
www.marchofdimes.com
Planned Parenthood
www.plannedparenthood.org/
50 Million Pound Challenge
www.50millionpounds.com/
The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy
www.thenationalcampaign.org/
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: Take 25
http://www.take25.org/
Girls Scouts of America – Imagine Engineering
http://www.girlscouts.org/imagineengineering/.
Teen Chat: A Guide to Discussing Healthy Relationships
www.helpingamericasyouth.gov/exhibithall/OPA -20Teen Chat.pdf
National Youth Violence Prevention Dating Abuse Prevention (Respect)
www.safeyouth.org/scripts/news/docs/chooserespect.asp
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
1-800-656-HOPE
National Sexual Assault Online Hotline http://apps.rainn.org/ohlbridge
Health Guide for America's Teens
www.adolescenthealth.org/Health_Guide_for_Americas_Teens.pdf
BAM Body and Mind Website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.bam.gov/sub_physicalactivity/index.html
Girls Incorporated Resource Site Link
www.girlsinc.org/ic/page.php?id=3.5.5
(Girls Inc. also a good organization to consider collaborating with)
KidsHealth (Mental Health page)
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/
Proctor and Gamble My Black is Beautiful Campaign
http://myblackisbeautiful.com/MBIB_Discussion_Guide.pdf
GirlsHealth from the US Department of Health and Human Services
www.4girls.gov/
www.4girls.gov/freestuff/images/brochure.pdf
www.4girls.gov/freestuff/teenguide/teen_survival_guide.pdf
Adolescent Decision Making: Implications for Prevention Programs
http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=9468&page=1
FreeSpirit - Company that provides educational material for youth
www.freespirit.com/foreign_rights/foreign_rights.cfm
Excerpts from the Rites of Passage Youth Empowerment Curriculum by Soror Emily Diane Gunter
www.ritesofpassageonline.org/index.html
Center for Young Women's Health
www.youngwomenshealth.org/
Character Education (Respect)
www.goodcharacter.com/ISOC/Respect.html
Choose Respect
www.chooserespect.org/scripts/index.asp
National Projects and Community Service
Tracking Form (NPCS)
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 1 of 10
National Projects and Community Service Tracking Form NPCS Tracking Form
(Electronic) Frequently Asked Questions
Greetings Sorors,
Thank you in advance for agreeing to submit this year’s National Programs and Community Service NPCS Tracking form. This brief form is designed to assist in the timely submission of all data related to national projects and community service initiatives. Please complete the form immediately after implementing your project to ensure the most accurate reporting of the event. This form contains the same data that you would report on the End of Year Electronic Report.
In addition, you will collect the data throughout the year and only have to submit the NPCS Tracking form once, with your End of Year Electronic Report. The below frequently asked questions will assist you with additional information about the data collection project.
Please submit your NPCS Tracking form to: A. Data Collection Committee email address: [email protected]
1. What is the purpose of the project?
The purpose of the project is to quantify the community service and national program initiatives. It is imperative that we continue to quantify the work that we are doing in the community for the purpose of presenting this information for grant proposals and other external funding sources, as well as to enable us to communicate effectively the impact of our work nationwide.
2. When will the NPCS Tracking Form be ready to use by chapters? Please begin using the new form NOW to ensure submission by the normal July 15th deadline.
3. What are the benefits of the NPCS Tracking Form?
• User-friendly
• Efficient data collection
• Increase accuracy through built in math calculations if completed electronically
• Timely submission of all data
4. Will our chapter get a confirmation that our report was received? Yes, the chapter Basileus or her designee will get an e-mail that your “NPCS Tracking Form” was received by Data Collection Committee from email address [email protected].
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 2 of 10
5. Does the form have to be secured and completed electronically?
It is preferable that the form be accessed and completed electronically to provide the greatest benefit to both the chapter and the sorority. Please submit report in Excel format.
Special Activities Committee
• Dr. Rhonda Norman, chair (Central)
• Soror Rhonda Davis (Central)
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 3 of 10
SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.
Revised-NPCS Tracking Form- Data Collection As of August 31st, 2011
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 4 of 10
Table of Contents
1. PURPOSE .....................................................................................................................5
2. SCOPE ..........................................................................................................................5
3. INSTRUCTIONS/PROCEDURES ...............................................................................5 3.1. The International Projects .......................................................................................5 3.2. The Community Service Projects ...........................................................................8
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 5 of 10
Background The revised form will help to bring to fruition Grand Basileus Loveless’s vision of quantifying our national programs and community service projects. It is imperative that we continue to quantify the work that we are doing in the community for the purpose of presenting this information for grant proposals and other external funding sources, as well as to enable us to communicate effectively the community impact of our work nationwide.
1. Purpose
The purpose of this work instruction is to describe the steps necessary to execute the Revised NPCS Tracking Form - Data Collection to quantify the community service and national program initiatives.
2. Scope
This work instruction applies to all Financial Chapters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
3. Instructions/Procedures
3.1. The National Projects
1. Click tab National Projects. (Note: Located lower level of the worksheet.)
2. Enter the value for Date of Event then Click Tab.
3. Enter the value for Chapter then Click Tab.
4. Click the drop-down menu for Region. Select your Region then Click Tab.
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 6 of 10
5. Click the drop-down menu for Chapter Status. Select your Chapter Status then Click Tab.
6. Enter the value for Donation Amount then Click Tab.
7. Click the drop-down menu for Charitable Contribution then Click Tab.
8. Enter the value for Collaborative Partner Name then Click Tab.
9. Click the drop-down menu for National – Project Reassurance. Select one of the National-Project Reassurance then Click Tab.
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 7 of 10
10. Enter the value for Project Name then Click Tab.
11. Enter the value for Description Project Name then Click Tab.
12. Enter the value for Total Service Hrs then Click Tab.
13. Enter the values for each Females Attendees: Ages 11-16, 17-24 and 25+ then Click Tab.
14. Enter the values for each Males Attendees: Ages 11-16, 17-24 and 25+ then Click Tab.
15. Enter the value for each Total Tested for HIV then Click Tab.
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 8 of 10
16. Enter the value for each Total HIV Testing Outcome then Click Tab.
3.2. The Community Service Projects
1. Click tab Community Service Projects. (Note: Located lower level of the worksheet.)
2. Enter the value for Date of Event then Click Tab.
3. Enter the value for Chapter then Click Tab.
4. Click the drop-down menu for Region. Select your Region then Click Tab.
5. Click the drop-down menu for Chapter Status. Select your Chapter Status then Click Tab.
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 9 of 10
6. Enter the value for Donation Amount then Click Tab.
7. Click the drop-down menu for Charitable Contribution then Click Tab.
8. Enter the value for Collaborative Partner Name then Click Tab.
9. Enter the value for Community Service Organization then Click Tab.
10. Enter the value for Description Community Service Project then Click Tab.
11. Enter the value for Total Service Hrs then Click Tab.
National Programs and Community Service Data Form (NPCS Tracking Form)
This work instruction is proprietary to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., not to be distributed outside the Sorority.
Page 10 of 10
12. Enter the values for each Females Attendees: Ages 11-16, 17-24 and 25+ then Click Tab.
13. Enter the values for each Males Attendees: Ages 11-16, 17-24 and 25+ then Click Tab.
Date of
EventChapter Region Chapter Status
Donation
Amount
Charitable
ContributionCollaborative Partner Name National - "Project Reassurance" Project Name Description Project Name
Total Srvc
Hrs
Ages 11-
16
Ages 17-
24
Ages
25+
Females
Total
Ages 11-
16
Ages
17-24
Ages
25+
Males
Total
Total
Attendees
Total Tested
for HIV
Total HIV Testing
Outcome
8/12/2011 Epsilon Lambda Sigma CENTRAL Alumnae $350.00 Yes Cincinnati African Firefighters - CAFA PR: Healthy Choices - "Buckle Up America - Distracted Driving Prevention" Operation BigBookBag Provided 150 book bags and school supplies
to Rockdale Elementary School10 75 7 10 92 75 5 80 172 12 0
CENTRAL Undergraduate Yes PR: Healthy Living - "A34 Life - Act Against AIDS" 0 0 0
PR: Healthy Generations - "Project Cradle Care: Prenatal Education" 0 0 0
PR: Healthy Choices - "Teen Preg. Prevention" 0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
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0 0 0
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