DELTA GEMS
The Delta GEMS Program (formerly known as Delteens) is a youth
community service program of Tampa Alumnae Chapter which began
in the early 70’s. In 2006, the program was renamed to
Delta GEMS (Growing and
Empowering Myself Successfully).
This is an extension of the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy program.
The Delta GEMS Program name and content was changed to become
consistent with other teen programs sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta
Sorority, Inc., Chapters. The Delta GEMS is now called the
Delta Academy II with a focus on teenage
girls between the ages of 14-18
and/or grades 9-12.
The Delta GEMS initiative was designed to “catch the dreams” of
African American at-risk, adolescent girls aged 14-18. The
program objective provides the frame work to actualize
those dreams through the performance of specific tasksthat develop a “CAN DO” attitude. The goals for Delta GEMS are:
- To promote positive societal interactions
- To develop effective written and oral communication skills
- To encourage self-confidence, self-motivation and self-discipline
- To foster meaningful public service; including mentoring and networking
- To strive for intellectual enrichment
- To assist with the exploration of various career paths and means
for obtaining them
(college and / or vocational skills training) - To support talents in academics, technology, sports and fine arts
- To maintain moral values and personal pride while experiencing the crossroads of life
