Ringing Bells of Hope and Remembrance
Frankfort Alumnae Chapter co-sponsors the Breast Cancer Awareness: Ringing of the Bells for Hope and Remembrance along with the Bosom Buddies of Frankfort, Inc. This event kicks off with ringing of the bells to signify hope and remembrance of those who have battled cancer. The program is held at noon, once a year, during the month of October. The program is usually very inspiring and informative, heralding local speakers who share their experiences with cancer and offer updates on the progress made to overcome this disease through medical research and breakthroughs. Among the speakers of note is Marcie Lowe, a former Chair of the Franklin County Relay for Life, a two time cancer survivor, and our own Soror Gertrude Ridgel, a 30 year cancer survivor. (maybe update and include some additional names also) Our chapter and partners in this event hope to offer inspiration, information, and support to all women regarding this disease which affects every woman, whether her mother, sister, daughter or friend. But we affirm and strongly believe that this disease can and will be conquered, hence, we continue to inform and work diligently for this cause. If you would like to support this event, look for public service announcements during the month of October.
Voter Registration
The Sorority takes a very active role in raising awareness and education of the Frankfort/Franklin county community that every citizen needs to be registered. Anyone who has become of age, changed his/her name or changed address should register. The Chapter joins with other organizations engaged in a Voter Registration Campaign.
Delta Day at the State Capital
For the past eight years, Frankfort Alumnae Chapter has sponsored biannually “Delta Day at the Capital.” All Kentucky Deltas, dressed in red, are invited to visit the House and Senate during their sessions. The Deltas also visit with African American legislators to discuss issues that are important to us not only as African Americans but as women, and ultimately, citizens of the commonwealth. Kentucky Deltas make themselves known to our State Legislators. This activity provides Kentucky Deltas with additional information about the political process.
Memorial Day
The Frankfort Alumnae Chapter annually co-sponsors a Memorial Day Observance at the Greenhill Cemetery. This event is a longtime alliance with the American Legions in Frankfort, Kentucky to honor our fallen soldiers. These veterans committed and sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. For this, our chapter is dedicated to honor these men and women by taking the time each year on Memorial Day to reflect and challenge ourselves to answer our call for a better community and better world. During this ceremony, we are inspired by the stories that help us realize the importance of service to our community. We continue to offer our condolences and gratitude to the families of our committed veterans.
Black History Program
Frankfort Alumnae
Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. began its Black History program 20
years ago in the Fall of 1983. The primary purpose of the program is to enrich
and enhance the education provided by our public and private schools to
Frankfort/Franklin County youth ages 5-18 regarding the contributions of
African-Americans to American History. The past few years we have extended
the program to include college students and adults within our community.
The program is held annually on the campus of Kentucky State University on the
fourth Saturday in February. The program includes interactive workshops
covering topics from health to college/career planning, computer skills,
crafts, financial planning, music and dance. It is a half-day program packed
full of fun-filled, educational activities.
The program is open to all ages, with an emphasis of the youth and collegiate, in
the community and is promoted in local schools, churches and youth programs.
We hope to continue to expand the program to assist in meeting the educational
needs of our community and to promote the outstanding contributions of
African-Americans to our country.
Relay for Life
Frankfort Alumnae Chapter members continue to be advocates for cancer awareness in the community. One event that the chapter has participated in over 10 years is the Franklin County Relay for Life event. This is an annual project that the chapter participates in and sponsors Team Gert, which is in memory and honor of Gertrude Ridgel. Chapter members volunteer and walk the day of the event.