TAMPA — The Florida Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the American Cancer Society’s Florida Division recently renewed their partnership in the fight against cancer by signing a two-year partnership agreement on Nov. 3, at the American Cancer Society Florida Division Office.
Delta Sigma Theta is recognized as the top non-corporate Relay For Life team partner in Florida in 2010 and 2011. More than 39 Delta teams have raised nearly $130,000 in support of the American Cancer Society’s mission over the past two years.
Delta Sigma Theta chapters throughout Florida have implemented programs and services on the local level that continue to impact cancer disparities among the black community, as the partnership directly supports the Physical and Mental Health thrust of the sorority’s National Five Point Program and Social Action.
“Congratulations to the Florida Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. on the work they are doing with the American Cancer Society,” said Dr. Paulette C. Walker, Delta Sigma Theta National First Vice President. “This partnership is a true example of what can happen when organizations with mirrored purposes, visions, and missions come together to work towards a common goal.”
As part of the renewed partnership, Florida members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority will help the community get well and stay well by educating black women and other women of color about breast cancer, and recruiting volunteer drivers for the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery transportation program.
Chapter Members will fight back against cancer by encouraging the communities they serve to participate in the Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) that will make a difference in the lives of future generations.
The sorority will continue to be legislative advocates for the American Cancer Society at the state and national level to influence public policy that has an impact on reducing cancer disparities throughout this country. Members will be encouraged to attain volunteer leadership positions and apply for staff positions as well as operating board positions. The sorority will continue to raise funds through Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events.
“Cancer is a war waged by each and every person, if not physically, then emotionally as we are tied to those we love. It does not discriminate, no matter the economic, cultural or color status,” said Cheryl W. Turner, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Southern Regional Director.
“As Delta women we aggressively engage in issues that impact the community, be it locally or globally. We do it because it's the right thing to do. The eradication of cancer is one such issue. That is why the Partnership between Delta Sigma Theta and the American Cancer Society, FL Division has been forged. We are kindred spirits, so to speak, each having 1913 as our year of inception and each rooted in seeking resolutions and cures for the ills of society!”
The organizations have partnered together since 2007, resulting in significant successes in Florida, including:
• Educating more than 1,900 black women in Florida about breast cancer through Delta Sigma Theta’s involvement with the Triple Touch II program.
• Training more than 40 Delta Sigma Theta members and volunteers to drive cancer patients to and from cancer treatment, as part of the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program.
• Helping pass a $1 increase to Florida’s tobacco tax through their participation in the American Cancer Society’s advocacy efforts.
• Raising funds to fight cancer through fundraising events such as Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
Photo: PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY
PARTNERED AGAINST CANCER: Announcing their new two-year agreement are Cheryl W. Turner, Delta Sigma Theta southern regional director; Paulette C. Walker, Delta Sigma Theta national first vice president.
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