In May 1980, sixteen then inactive Deltas gave meaning to the phrase that symbolizes the spirit of our sisterhood: Membership in Delta Sigma Theta Is a Lifetime Commitment. With this idea in mind, Sorors gathered together to discuss the chartering of a Delta Chapter in South Middlesex County, MA. It was evident that there was much that could be done in the Framingham community. On January 10, 1981, South Middlesex County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated was established.
During the first year of its existence, South Middlesex County Alumnae Chapter (SMCAC), though small, became well known in the Framingham community. Participation in the Greater Framingham Community Church Women’s Day 10th Anniversary Celebration, the collection of money for a family whose home burned, and a letter writing campaign for the passage of the extension to the Voting Rights Bill, proved that this Chapter was concerned about community service. The chapter developed fundraising activities to award two yearly scholarships to high school students, The Minerva Award and The Torch Award.
South Middlesex County Alumnae Chapter has conducted workshops on the concerns of black men and women as they relate to the community. SMCAC throughout the year donates numerous goods and monies to local and international organizations. The chapter conducts voter registration drives and attends “Delta Days” at the State and Nation’s Capitols and initiated “March to the Mailbox” letter writing campaigns. SMCAC sponsors financial literacy workshops for youths and adults. The Chapter also participates in health and elder services. A recognized staple to SMCAC is the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy program. The program is designed to offer educational, leadership and cultural enrichment activities to African-American girls, ages 11-14; and the Delta GEMS program, targeted to girls 15-18 that offers leadership and college preparatory skills.
SMCAC has grown in numbers since its inception. Chapter sorors past and present are praised throughout South Middlesex County (Ashland, Framingham, Holliston, Hopkinton, Marlborough, Natick, Sherborn, Sudbury and Wayland) and Worcester because of their commitment to public service.
