The Roanoke Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority held its annual culminating event for their “Black Boys Read Too” August 3, program based on President Obama’s initiative” I’m My Brother’s Keeper.” The goal is to promote and encourage young Black boys to read prior to third grade. This is the chapter’s 4th year of hosting, this in collaboration with the Deltas of Roanoke VA Foundation. Also one of the chapter’s educational programs supported by the EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities to Develop Independently} program. Each young man that reads 15 books over 30 days during the month of July receives $15.00, and a “Black Boys Read Too backpack with school supplies.
This year Roanoke City Mayor Sherman P. Lea shared his personal experiences with reading as a young man and how it helped him to become a better college student and athlete.
Lutheria Smith, a Roanoke City Public School Board member, encouraged the young men to continue to read and to challenge themselves throughout the year. Greg Johnston, executive director for K-5 Education, provided inspirational words from Dr. Rita Bishop, superintendent for Roanoke City Public Schools, who expressed how proud she was of all the young men who participated.
Jerel Rhodes II, a Woodrow Wilson Middle School student had the honor of introducing his father, Jerel “Tank” Rhodes, guidance counselor at Forest Park Learning Academy, and founder of Rebounding Roanoke and the Renaissance Academy. Rhodes, who is a friend of Delta’s EMBODI program, delivered a wonderful motivational message to the young men. The entire program was uplifting for not only the children but for the adults as well.
Program coordinators were: Gloria Manns, Jean Dixon and Diane Jones. Monica Calloway is chapter president.
