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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).

http://www.Sgrho1922.org

http://www.fruitandveggiesmorematters.org

mailto:[email protected]

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.

http://www.trafficsafety.org

http://virtualcollegefair.blackamericaweb.com


http://www.actagainstaids.org


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








http://www.nbdpn.org/bdpm2011

http://www.MarchforBabies.org

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


http://www.girlscouts.org/engineering

http://www.letsmove.gov/about.php

http://www.hivtest.org


http://www.organdonor.gov/student/activities

http://www.marrow.org

http://www.organdonor.gov

http://www.mottep.org


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







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


http://www.cdc.gov/autism

http://www.autism-society.org

http://www.MarchforBabies.org

http://advfy.nonprofitsoapbox.com/storage/advfy/documents/ntppm.pdf

http://www.advocatesforyouth.org

http://www.thenationalcampaign.org

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

http://www.livewell.org

http://www.Take25.org

http://www.take25.org/add-event.asp

https://webmail.ncmec.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=https://webmail.ncmec.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=https://webmail.ncmec.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=https://webmail.ncmec.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=https://webmail.ncmec.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL


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]

http://www.sgrho1922.org/ProjectReassurance









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


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

http://www.sgrhoepistoleus.org/

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

http://www.hhs.gov/

http://www.marchofdimes.com/


http://www.aap.org/

http://www.statehealthfacts.org/


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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

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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

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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


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

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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

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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


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


I am not sure

I can HARDLY EVER make healthy choices


I can NEVER make healthy choices for


List healthy choices you will start making today.

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


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

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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/

http://www.girlscouts.org/imagineengineering/

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.

http://www.sgrho1922.org/

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


http://www.plannedparenthood.org/

http://www.50millionpounds.com/

http://www.thenationalcampaign.org/

http://www.take25.org/

http://www.girlscouts.org/imagineengineering/

http://www.helpingamericasyouth.gov/exhibithall/OPA%20-20Teen%20Chat.pdf

http://www.safeyouth.org/scripts/news/docs/chooserespect.asp

http://apps.rainn.org/ohlbridge

http://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

http://www.bam.gov/sub_physicalactivity/index.html

http://www.girlsinc.org/ic/page.php?id=3.5.5

http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/

http://myblackisbeautiful.com/MBIB_Discussion_Guide.pdf

http://www.4girls.gov/

http://www.4girls.gov/freestuff/images/brochure.pdf

http://www.4girls.gov/freestuff/teenguide/teen_survival_guide.pdf

http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=9468&page=1

http://www.freespirit.com/foreign_rights/foreign_rights.cfm

http://www.ritesofpassageonline.org/index.html

http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/

http://www.goodcharacter.com/ISOC/Respect.html

http://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].

mailto:[email protected]�

mailto:[email protected]�



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)



Page 3 of 10


Revised-NPCS Tracking Form- Data Collection As of August 31st, 2011



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



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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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

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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0 0 0

0 0 0

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0 0 0

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0 0 0

0 0 0

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0 0 0

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0 0 0

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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

international program update - memberclicks...hiv/aids grant/partnership is doing well but it will...

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