Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. provides an extensive array of public service initiatives through its Five-Point Programmatic Thrust:

▴ Educational Development
▴ Economic Development
▴ International Awareness and Involvement
▴ Physical and Mental Health
▴ Political Awareness and Involvement

The Lakeland Alumnae Chapter offers the following programs and projects within the above national initiatives.

Educational Development

Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy 

Created in 1996, the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy is a national signature program designed for young girls ages 11-14 to enrich and enhance their educational and cultural experiences, and to prepare each young girl for leadership in the 21st Century.

Our chapter’s Academy addresses the current issues and trends of middle school-aged girls and fosters an environment for building self-esteem, interpersonal skills development, and individual growth.

Participants meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month and participate in various cultural and educational activities.  If interested in this program, please email the committee chair.

Dr. Jean Nobel Delta GEMS 

Delta Gems was created to catch the dreams of African American at-risk, adolescent girls aged 14-18. Delta GEMS provides the framework to actualize those dreams through the performance of specific tasks that develop a CAN DO attitude.  This program runs concurrently with the Polk County Public School calendar.

Participants meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month and participate in various cultural and educational activities.  If interested in this program, please email the committee chair.

EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) 

The EMBODI program is designed to refocus the efforts of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, with the support and action of other major organizations, on the plight of African-American males. Both informal and empirical data suggests that the vast majority of African-American males continue to be in crisis and are not reaching their fullest potential educationally, socially and emotionally.

Our chapter’s EMBODI program accepts young males ages 11 – 18.

Participants meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month and participate in various cultural and educational activities.  If interested in this program, please email the committee chair.

Youth Writing Workshops 
The Arts & Letters Committee offers youth writing workshops in order to help local students improve their writing skills. Students receive one-on-one assistance to write essays, books, and more.  Check out our upcoming events page for the next workshop.

Adult Writing Workshop
The Arts & Letters Committee conducts an annual How to Write a Book Workshop.  Published authors and educators within the chapter share their experience and knowledge on how to write, publish, and promote books.

Economic Development

The Economic Development Committee seeks to support local initiatives that promote financial responsibility and awareness and entrepreneurship. If you are a female small business owner in Polk County, we would like to promote your small business on our website. Please email  us for more info.

International Awareness and Involvement

The International Awareness & Involvement Committee collects care packages for HIV/AIDS patients for World Aids Day. These care packages are distributed by the Polk County Health Department.

Physical and Mental Health

The Physical and Mental Health Committee strives to encourage wellness in our sorority and the community. The committee offers a variety of opportunities and events that promote healthy living for our members and people in our service area. The Physical and Mental Health Committee offers a myriad of creative programs designed to proactively raise awareness on major health and wellness concerns.  Check our social media pages for frequent health reminders.

Political Awareness and Involvement

Our Social Action Committee develops programs that educate, train, and support the community in becoming more politically aware and socially conscious. Programs include voter registration,  education, and mobilization.

Jabberwock
Jabberwock, copyrighted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is a variety style program that showcases the talents of young women and local talent and program participants while advancing the goals and objectives of the Delta scholarship program. Monetary Awards are made to eligible to pursue secondary school studies based on funds raised by the contestants and chapter members. The Lakeland Alumnae Chapter began hosting this annual event in 1978. Contestants must be a resident of Polk County. The court consist of young ladies ages six through thirteen.

May Week
Lakeland Alumnae Chapter has emphasized scholastic achievement, educational opportunities, and encouragement of higher scholarship. May Week, a traditional Delta National program, showcases the scholastic achievement of youth in the community.