Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s International Awareness and Involvement (IAI) program has an extensive history of advocacy and service in international issues, including human rights and developing infrastructure. This involvement has led to the participation in projects related to addressing the needs of diverse cultures and global initiatives. The Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter expresses our empathy and committed support to our brothers and sisters around the globe who live in impoverished conditions without adequate nourishment, education, medical treatment, and basic sustenance. We continue to annually observe the World AIDS Day global initiative on December 1 and support the Sorority’s International Awareness and Involvement Sustainability Plan.

 

In support of World AIDS Day, the Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter kicked off our most recent observance of the global initiative by serving at the Leavenworth Interfaith Community of Hope in November 29, 2022. We served meals, donated several cases of water, shared information about HIV/AIDS prevention and World AIDS history, and distributed red ribbons, the international symbol of AIDS awareness. On November 30 and December 1, 2022, the IAI committee and chapter spent time educating the public about World AIDS Day and uniting in the fight against HIV to show support for people living with HIV and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Munson Army Health Center and the Main Exchange Mall area on Fort Leavenworth's Army Installation provided the venues that helped to share this vital information.

 

In celebration of the Sorority's 20-year consultative status with the United Nations, the Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter’s IAI Committee held a fundraiser to support the I CAN FLY High International School in Machakos, Kenya. Each chapter member was challenged to donate $20 to assist in the rescue mission that houses abused, abandoned, and orphaned girls. The fundraiser was titled, "I am H.E.R." The acronym H.E.R. stands for H-Help, E-Education and Encouragement, and R-Resources. When help, education, encouragement, and resources are provided for any child, they can fly! The fundraiser collected a total of $530, which was donated to the girls’ high school in Kenya.

 

In collaboration with Operation Christmas Child, the Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter celebrated the gift of giving by stuffing more than 35 shoe boxes with toys, clothing, and other items for boys and girls around the world ages 5-17 years old.

 

In the spirit of fellowship and celebration of other cultures, members of LAC’s IAI Committee attended a cultural cuisine experience with international military officers studying at Fort Leavenworth’s Command and General Staff College.