Social Action
Formulated in 1934, the Social Action program was conceived by Bro. Elmo M. Anderson to focus on improving the general well-being of minority groups. The mission of the International Social Action Program is to encourage social, political and philanthropic leadership that strengthens our respective communities and our membership by:
-
Educating Fraternity members on health issues affecting them and their families
-
Increasing visibility and sense of self-worth by/through serving in the community
-
Providing unified efforts that address political and community issues and increasing
awareness of the legislative process -
Involving the membership in fund raising activities that support organizations that share
our vision -
Promoting health awareness in an effort to prevent health challenges amongst our
membership
Social Action Initiatives:
Heart-Health Health Fair
We believe that educating the community about strategies for preventing heart disease and encouraging them to commit to heart-healthy lives are integral aspects of disease prevention/management from this often silent killer. The Chapter sponsors a health fair on the campus of Governors State University during the month of February, Heart-Health Awareness Month. We provide local vendors to offer health screenings and education to the Fair's participants.
Let’s Talk About Sex
In an effort to raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on minority communities, the Chapter through it Sigma Wellness Initiative developed a project, Let’s Talk About Sex: Get Turned Up. This initiative is targeted at students on a local college campus. It is designed to encourage an informal discussion about sexual practices and behaviors that put individuals at risk for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Bridging the Communicative Process Between the Community & Law Enforcement
The focus of the project is aimed at listening to and educating our young men in high school on behaviors and adopted tactics to keep them safe when interacting with law enforcement. Also the goal is to instill a sense of confidence in them when they are engaged with authoritative figures. OAS believes the conversation is a start to reducing violence between police and the community.
Helping Families in Need During Christmas
Omicron Alpha Sigma Chapter helps families who experience financial hardship during Christmas. In August the Chapter holds an event, “Christmas in August” to raise money for these families and during Christmas time, we present them with gift cards for toys, food and assist with rent payment.
Social Action Partnerships
OAS has maintained strong relationships with leading community organizations. We are currently focusing on the following two.
American Cancer Society March of Dimes
