[dojo]

I have spent the last two years seriously researching the four sororities in the D9. Like in most other posts that I have read, I narrowed my selections down to two. I began more extensive research from that point and my final selection was obvious to me.

Since childhood, I have always been involved in giving back to my area communities in some way, shape or form. From the Girl Scouts to the Key Club, the volunteer days with my Mom at the Cabrini Green Housing Projects (Chi-town folks know about that area) helping with the underprivileged youth as a child, it was instilled in me that I must never forget where I come from and always, always serve. I still hold those values dear to my heart.

To this day, I have continued to serve in various ways, going as far as being a volunteer foster parent of a 12-year old girl - this was one of my greatest challenges; working with her to build self esteem and help her understand that the opportunities placed in front of her should be used to her advantage to gain the empowerment to be confident, educated and self-sufficient. There are so many young women that need guidance to keep from slipping into the "stereotypical buckets" given to our people and prepare them for the future. Dr. Betty Shabazz's Delta Academy works to do just that.

I know that I can continue to serve my community without belonging to an organization to do it and that what I do creates an impact, however I believe that strength is in numbers, and I would love to be a part of a larger, louder voice working together toward common goals tackling the problems of our society. With Delta being as service-driven as she is, one cannot help but to want to know her, to love her and be a part of her.

To be perfectly honest, it bothers me to see women take their membership in your illustrious Sorority for granted; for if I were ever given the opportunity to become a member, I would value and cherish my lifetime endeavor with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.