Jabberwock Program Application Handbook

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "Jabberwock Program Application Handbook"

Shana Sims
5 years ago
Views:

1 Application Handbook REVISED APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 "Young ladies called to Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service!"

2 June 15, 2011 Greetings Dear Prospective Jabberwock Participant! The of (NoVAC) and the Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service (NVDECS) Foundation are proud to present the Jabberwock Program. Jabberwock is an opportunity to engage young adult women in our local community in a youth program that teaches the significance of sisterhood, scholarship, and service. The founders of the sorority wanted to use their collective strength to promote academic excellence; to provide scholarships; to provide support to the underserved; to educate and stimulate participation in the establishment of positive public policy; and to highlight issues and provide solutions for problems in their communities. Therefore in 1925, Delta presented Jabberwock as a national program to reflect the sorority's commitment to academic and cultural enrichment for female youth in local communities. NoVAC and the NVDECS Foundation welcome participants and their families to join our local Jabberwock program and embrace the Jabberwock theme of "Young Ladies Called to Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service!" Our program will provide a nine month curriculum that includes educational, cultural, community service, and self-enrichment activities and programs. The program will conclude with a traditional Jabberwock Cotillion Gala and scholarship awards! I invite you to review the Jabberwock Application Handbook to understand more about NoVAC, the NVDECS Foundation, and the Jabberwock Program. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Jabberwock Program Chair, Ms. Chasiti Dawson at jabberwock@dstnovac.org. Thank you for your interest in the NoVAC Jabberwock Program! We look forward to meeting you soon! Sincerely, Antoinette Mann, President Linda Byrd-Johnson Linda Byrd-Johnson, President Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service Foundation Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 1

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction... 3 II. of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (NoVAC)... 4 III. Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service Foundation (NVDECS)... 5 IV. Jabberwock Program... 6 A. Program Workshops... 7 B. Other Jabberwock Program Activities... 7 C. Jabberwock Cotillion... 7 D. Tentative Program Schedule... 8 E. Jabberwock Competition V. Eligibility Requirements VI. Jabberwock Application Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 2

4 I. Introduction NoVAC presents the Jabberwock Program a nine month program designed to promote academic excellence, community service, and cultural enrichment for African American female youth between the ages 13 to 18. Jabberwock is a traditional expansion program of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. that was conceived in 1925 at the Iota Chapter in Boston, Massachusetts by sorority member Ms. Marion Hope Conover. In an interpretation of the immortal classic, "Alice in Wonderland," Lewis Carroll created the delightful character known as "Jabberwock" who summoned all of the creatures in the kingdom to perform a gala event. Ms. Hope creatively recalled this mystical character when faced with the challenge of devising plans for a fundraising project. Conceptualized as a musical variety show that consisted of skits and dances, the Jabberwock has since evolved into a more diverse program that continues to raise funds for scholarships and other Delta Sigma Theta sponsored public service projects. The word Jabberwock - copyrighted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. on December 28, has evolved in its symbolism over the past years. It now represents an evening of elegance and entertainment that showcases the gifts and talents of the young women participating in the program while advancing the goals and objectives of Delta's scholarship program. Today, Jabberwocks are held by chapters all over the country as a signature event. Since its inception, Jabberwock has supported the development of thousands of young women and produced millions of fundraising dollars. NoVAC is proud and inspired to continue the legacy of the Jabberwock Program to support development of young people in the local community. The purpose of the NoVAC Jabberwock Program is: To promote academic excellence, community service, and cultural exposure for African American female youth in Northern Virginia; To support the mission of the sorority and the sorority s 5 point programmatic thrust; and To raise funds for scholarships, programs and community service initiatives. This document is the official NoVAC Jabberwock Application Handbook. It describes and or explains the following: of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Jabberwock Program Components Jabberwock Eligibility Requirements Required Forms and Documentation Jabberwock Program Contacts and Liaisons Jabberwock Application Checklist The Jabberwock Program is funded through the NVDECS Foundation. The foundation is a public, not-for-profit organization that operates exclusively for charitable and educational purposes and serves as a funding source for NoVAC programs, community service projects, and scholarships. Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 3

5 II. of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (NoVAC) NoVAC is the local chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The sorority is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. A sisterhood of more than 200,000 predominately Black college educated women, the Sorority currently has over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan (Tokyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Republic of Korea. The major programs of the sorority are based upon the organization's Five Point Programmatic Thrust: Economic Development Educational Development International Awareness and Involvement Physical and Mental Health Political Awareness and Involvement On May 17, 1959, thirteen concerned Deltas felt the need for an alumnae chapter in the Northern Virginia Area. Eula Miller, Nellie Grayson, Oline Richardson, Dorothy Hamm Moore, Laura McPhail, Nellie Quander, Doris Thompson Woods, Signora Collins, Izzetta Callahan, Aeolus Brooks, Ruth Owens, Eddie Mims, and Mary Robinson founded the Alexandria Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and are considered the chapter's charter members. By 1972, the membership had grown to 37; by 1982, the membership stood at 118; and by 1990, the chapter size had reached 169. Due to the increased presence of Deltas located in the many communities of Northern Virginia who elected to affiliate with the Alexandria Chapter, the membership voted in 1977 to change the Chapter's name from Alexandria Alumnae to Northern Virginia Alumnae. NoVAC has been serving the Northern Virginia area for over 52 years. Now, the chapter is a sisterhood of over 380 women who are committed to education, public service, and dedicated to offering community programs in Arlington, Alexandria, the City of Falls Church, and the City of Fairfax. For more information regarding NoVAC history, programs, and events, visit Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 4

6 III. Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service Foundation (NVDECS) The NVDECS Foundation, a public 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization established in 1992, is chartered and registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The mission of the NVDECS Foundation is to make a positive difference in the community we serve by playing a supportive role in providing educational, scientific, civic, literary and charitable programs for the Northern Virginia community. Since its inception, the NVDECS Foundation has partnered with the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NoVAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service organization, to sponsor fundraisers to support educational scholarships, youth development, programs for senior citizens, healthy lifestyle initiatives, and community forums. The NVDECS Foundation Board of Directors consists of members of NoVAC and interested individuals from the community who serve on a volunteer basis. The NVDECS seeks funding through grants from local and national philanthropic organizations and businesses in addition to donations from individuals through contributions and the establishment of memorial funds. These diverse funding sources are instrumental in NVDECS Foundation s ability to fulfill its commitment to assist in addressing the challenges facing the community we serve. What NVDECS Foundation Funds The NVDECS Foundation uses it funds to provide grants to the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NoVAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., including grants for community favorites like: Reading is Fundamental (RIF) Strengthening Our Leaders (SOL) Tutoring Program Delta Academy Project Esther The NVDECS Foundation also supports non-profit activities of community and civic organizations in our service area whose programs address the foundation s mission and commitment to community service. Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 5

7 IV. Jabberwock Program The NoVAC Jabberwock Program consists of eight program components that support the sorority's mission and five point programmatic thrust. Each component is strategically planned to integrate relevant youth challenges, issues and concerns with practical solutions, techniques, and life skills to enhance young adult development. The program includes the following components: # Program Component Description 1 Orientation The Jabberwock Program Orientation is a comprehensive introduction to NoVAC and the Jabberwock Program. The NoVAC Chapter President, NVDECS Foundation President, and sorority members officially welcome the participants and their parents 2 3 Fundraising Workshop & Seminar Monthly Program Workshops The Jabberwock Fundraising Workshop & Seminar will teach the Jabberwock participants the most appropriate way to identify, ask, and receive Jabberwock funds from supporters. The workshop & seminar will also review the Jabberwock Finances and Collection of Fees forms. The Jabberwock Monthly Program Workshops are designed as 90- minute seminars with formal instruction and or facilitation to create an exciting cultural, educational, and social experience for the participants. Workshop topics are designed to support each of the sorority's Five Point Programmatic Thrust and may include speakers/ panelists, interactive team assignments, and take home assignments to build upon workshop lessons. 4 Educational Field Trips 5 Cultural Events The Jabberwock Educational Trips will provide participants with firsthand experience related to education and African American history. The trips will provide unique opportunities for learning that are not available within the traditional classroom environment. The Jabberwock Cultural Events provide participants exposure to social and multi-ethnic experiences. The events will provide unique opportunities for community and interpersonal development 6 7 Community Service Project Escorts & Fathers: Etiquette Program The Jabberwock participants will plan, coordinate, and implement a community service project with NoVAC sorority members. The Jabberwock Community Service Project will support one of NoVAC's local initiatives. The Jabberwock Escorts & Fathers Only Program is an opportunity for Jabberwock Escorts to learn the social skills, personal style and etiquette that may encourage confidence and self esteem. Discussion will include grooming, the importance of handshake, introductions and conversations, telephone manners, and simple courtesies. 8 Jabberwock Cotillion The Jabberwock Cotillion is an elegant event that celebrates the accomplishments of the participants and culminates the months of preparation in their social skills and personal growth. Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 6

8 A. Program Workshops Jabberwock monthly program workshops are designed as 90-minute seminars with formal instruction and or facilitation. Workshop topics are designed to support each of the sorority's Five Point Programmatic Thrust and include: Physical & Mental Health promotes community and individual wellness through focused prevention including fitness, healthy eating, and access to affordable healthcare. Workshop Topic: Who am I and what type of woman do I want to be? (Mind & Body Health) Educational Development promotes academic excellence of children including early childhood literacy, before and after school programs, and scholarships for college education. Workshop Topic: Study Skills & Motivational Learning Styles/ College Life Economic Development promotes financial literacy, homeownership, and entrepreneurship. Workshop Topic: Know Your Money Early International Awareness & Involvement promotes awareness of international history, issues, people, and cultural experiences. Workshop Topic: South Africa & NoVAC Impact Political Awareness & Involvement advocates improving the quality of life through active participation in the community and public service including voting, voter education, and participation in public policy initiatives. Workshop Topic: What is social action? Why is it important? The monthly program workshops will include presentations by local community organizations or community residents. The workshops will offer written, visual, and interactive activities. B. Other Jabberwock Program Activities Other Jabberwock program activities will include educational and cultural activities. The Jabberwock educational and cultural activities will provide participants with firsthand experience related to education and African American history. The activities and events will provide unique opportunities for learning that are not available within the traditional classroom environment. C. Jabberwock Cotillion The Cotillion is an elegant evening that celebrates the accomplishments of the participants and culminates the months of preparation in their social skills and personal growth. Participants are escorted and presented to their family. During the cotillion, participants compete for scholarship, prizes and awards based on their fundraising efforts. Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 7

9 D. Tentative Program Schedule EVENT DATE JUNE 2011 Jabberwock Applications Available June 15, 2011 JULY 2011 Jabberwock Applications Due September 30, 2011 (Midnight EST) OCTOBER 2011 Application Review Period Notification of Jabberwock Participant Selection Jabberwock Orientation October 1, 2011 October 7, 2011 October 8, 2011 October 14, 2011 October 22, 2011 NOVEMBER 2011 Monthly Program Workshop #1 Introduction to NoVAC Chapter & How to Jabberwock Fundraise November 8, 2011 November 19, 2011 DECEMBER 2011 Monthly Program Workshop #2 Educational or Cultural Program Activity December 10, 2011 December 20, 2011 JANUARY 2012 Monthly Program Workshop #3 Jabberwock Retreat January 10, 2012 January 21, January 22, 2012 FEBRUARY 2012 Monthly Program Workshop #4 Cotillion Overview/ Practice & Rehearsal Escorts & Fathers Program Educational or Cultural Program Activity Cotillion Overview/ Practice & Rehearsal Monthly Program Workshop #5 Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal February 4, 2012 February 21, 2012 February 25, 2012 February 25, 2012 MARCH 2012 March 6, 2012 March 10, 2012 March 20, 2012 Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 8

10 EVENT Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal Mother & Daughter Tea Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal/ Etiquette Program DATE APRIL 2012 April 10, 2012 April 14, 2012 April 24, 2012 MAY 2012 Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal Community Service Project Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal May 8, 2012 May 12, 2012 May 22, 2012 JUNE 2012 Cotillion Practice & Rehearsal/ Jabberwock Closing Session Jabberwock Cotillion Gala June 2, 2012 June 3, 2012 Jabberwock Co-Chairs Co-chair Person Contact Information Phone Chasiti Dawson Pamela Perkins NoVAC Executive Officers Chapter Officers Antoinette Mann President Cheron Burns 1st Vice President Contact Information Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 9

11 E. Jabberwock Competition The winners of the Jabberwock Program are determined by a fundraising competition between Jabberwock participants. The participant who raises the most funds will place as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each Jabberwock category. However, all participants will be awarded scholarship funds predetermined by the percentages set by the Jabberwock Program Committee. See the table below to understand what each participant and winner will receive. TYPE OF WINNER Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) 1st Place Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) 2nd Place Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) 3rd Place Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) Miss Congeniality Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) Best Attendance Jabberwock (Miss & Little Miss) Best Journal All other Jabberwock participants DESCRIPTION OF WINNINGS 30% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award 25% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award 20% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award Miss Congeniality Special Gift 15% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award Best Attendance Special Gift 15% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award Best Journal Special Gift 15% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award 15% of dollars fundraised as scholarship award V. Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for participation in the Jabberwock Program, all participants must adhere to the following requirements: Escorts: Little Miss Jabberwock: Be a female between the ages 12 and 14 Miss Jabberwock: Be a female between the ages of 15 and 18 Have at least a 2.75 GPA Applicants MUST include a copy of your most recently issued report card. Include one Letter of Recommendation from a Teacher, Counselor, or Community Resident Include a recent photograph Complete Essay Submittal of registration fee of $150 due at orientation (NON REFUNDABLE FEE) Must be responsible for tuxedo costs. Details will be forthcoming on places and cost of rental. Must attend cotillion practice and rehearsals. Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 10

12 All required paperwork must be mailed to the following address and must be delivered or postmarked by September 30, Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service Foundation ATTENTION: Jabberwock Program/ Financial Secretary P.O. Box 2265 Arlington, VA Jabberwock Essay Please submit your essay as an attached document. Your essay must be Typed and double spaced Adhere to the word count minimums Must include your first and last name Jabberwock Participant Category Miss Jabberwock Topic What service project have you participated in and explain a service project that you think would be ideal for students your age. (350 words minimum) Little Miss Jabberwock Write a letter to President Obama telling him what he can do to make your community a better place. (250 words minimum) Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 11

13 VI. JABBERWOCK APPLICATION 1. Full Name: (First) (Middle) (Last) 2. Home Address: (Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) 3. Address 4. Home Phone Number: 5. Cell Phone Number: 6. Date of Birth: 7. School: 8. Classification: School Address: (Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) 8. Activities, Organizations, Honors: 9. Career Ambitions: Applicant s Signature Parent/Guardian s Signature (Date) (Date) Please indicate your T-shirt size below (unisex sizes) XS S M L XL 2XL 3XL Jabberwock Application Handbook Page 12

MISS JABBERWOCK 2015

Southwest Dallas C ounty Alumnae Chapter MISS JABBERWOCK 2015 Scholarship Fundraising Program 2014-2015 Participant Handbook Table of Contents Introduction Welcome Letter/Jabberwock History Eligibility