SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY LAUNCHES PROACTIVE SERVICE INITIATIVE TO ADDRESS TEEN PREGNANCY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2009

CONTACT:
W. Jeanine Daugherty
773-966-3003
grandepistoleus@sgrho1922.org

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY LAUNCHES PROACTIVE SERVICE INITIATIVE TO ADDRESS TEEN PREGNANCY

Cary, NC (BlackNews.com) - Efforts of more than 500 chapters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., throughout the U.S. and beyond, are mobilized under the leadership of its 22nd international grand basileus to attack the root causes of teenage pregnancy through its Project Reassurance.

Project Reassurance, the organization's signature project has traditionally helped educate pregnant teens and young mothers about the importance of pre- and post-natal care and how to better understand infant care and child development.

As part of the expansion of the project, Sigma Gamma Rho has aligned with the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy by becoming a national partner for the 2009 National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy scheduled for May 6, 2009.

"Researchers agree that most instances of teen pregnancy stem from low self esteem and a real or perceived lack of someone to love or someone to love them," explains International Grand Basileus Joann Loveless. "These young ladies erroneously believe that having a baby will give them the unconditional and lasting love for which they yearn."

Utilizing the 2008-2010 Project Reassurance theme, H3: It's All About Me -- Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations, the international organization has zeroed in on encouraging youth and teens ages 11-18 to make positive choices that lead to a more productive life and ensures the successful stabilization of the current and future generations. Utilizing workshops, tools, mentoring and resources geared toward increasing youth self-esteem and self-love, proactively expands the project by also encompassing proactive strategies to prevent teen pregnancy rather than just respond to it. On March 14, chapters across the nation conducted local Youth Symposiums focusing on improving youth self-esteem and self-love and respect.

The nationwide initiative continues to drive active support of teen mothers and their babies through a renewed and reinvigorated partnership with the March of Dimes and its March for Babies that began in April in most local communities for 2009 and will run through the month of May.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority's aim is to enhance the quality of life within the community. Public service, leadership development and education of youth are the hallmark of the organization's programs and activities. Sigma Gamma Rho addresses concerns that impact society educationally, civically and economically.

For more information on Project Reassurance, visit sgrho1922.org