Dec. 22, 2007 — A Christmas party hosted at Delta Academy Saturday by sisters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was all about sisterhood and fun: The Deltas threw the party, and the girls in the academy did the entertaining.
"We are like sisters in a big family," said Mellanee Hendricks, 11. "We have a lot of fun here."
The academy is a mentorship program for girls in public and private schools ages 10 to 14. The Delta sisters have done the mentoring for close to 20 years.
The party was held at the academy building on the grounds of Juanita Gardine Elementary School in Richmond. The Deltas lease the building from the Department of Education.
The girls in the academy provided their own special entertainment for the sorority sisters in attendance. The girls did a dance to "Wind Up," which was choreographed by Dakari Daniel, one of the girl's brothers. The girls had big, bright smiles on their faces as they danced, waved and did splits. The women showed their approval with rounds of applause. The girls also staged a fashion show, with each girl showcasing special holiday attire. One of the girls modeled a stylish gown in the sorority's colors, red and white.
A Christmas tradition for the Deltas has been to give to places such as Queen Louise Home.
This year the sisters bought two gifts for each girl in the academy. They also had red T-shirts made for the girls with "Delta Academy Dream Catchers" on the back. The girls feasted on chicken, rice, dressing, tarts, cookies, nuts and sodas served by the Deltas.
The mentorship program meets every Saturday, coordinated and led by Tricia Lockhart, Maria Grigg and Eunice Bedminster. The women arrange for guest speakers and presentations on topics pertinent to young ladies, such as health and education. Members of the Deltas often come and give talks on their professions.
"At this time I am overseeing a reading initiative, which is going very well," Grigg said. "It is so important for the girls to see the value in reading."
The girls meet from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday during the school year. They follow a curriculum based on the mission of being a public-service sorority. The Deltas promote education, economic development, physical and mental health, international service and political awareness.
Betty Shabazz, the late wife of Malcolm X, started the national mentoring program. Currently 13 girls are active in the group. The girls brought four non-member friends to the party, and they showed a sincere interest in joining the academy. The Deltas are currently laying the groundwork for an academy at St. Croix Educational Complex High School.
"I love the academy and what they do for us," said 10-year old Mia Smith. "The ladies give us good tips and advice."
Anyone wishing to make a donation may do so by mailing it to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, P.O. Box 8024, Christiansted, VI 00823.
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