Outreach
The Samford circle of OΔK has been extensively involved in Marion, Alabama since 2002. Progress, growth, and improvement in the state of Alabama are limited by its poverty-stricken "Black Belt Region." Within this region, Marion is the central town of Perry County, which is considered to be the poorest county (in terms of household income) in the state of Alabama. Based on data from the 2000 U.S. Census, the per capita income for the county was $10,948. In all, approximately 31.2% of families and 35.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 48.9% of those under the age of 18. Approximately 68.9% of the county population is African American, compared to 26.4% across the population of Alabama.
It is widely agreed that one central need in Perry County is leadership; unfortunately, for various reasons the youth of this area lack mentors and role models who teach and emulate positive change. This need has encouraged the Samford circle of OΔK to become involved. For the past 4 springs (2002-2006), we have organized the "Samford OΔK Fun Fest" in downtown Marion for local families and youth. These events included complimentary barbeque lunch, live music, inflatable "moon walks" and various activities for children. This initiative allowed us to realize and organize our latest program -- the Samford OΔK Leadership Initiative.
On December 2, 2006, from 10-3 p.m., the Samford circle of OΔK hosted its second annual OΔK Leadership Institute in Marion, Alabama at Marion Military Institute. This event was begun last year in fall 2005 and was widely considered to be a meaningful and impacting experience for all involved. The students were selected and invited to participate by the principals of the schools. The institute was organized entirely by Samford OΔK students and included complimentary breakfast and lunch for all participants. The agenda included the following topics: 1) What is leadership? What is servant leadership? 2) How can I be a leader? 3) What are the traits I have that can be used for leadership? 4) Where/How can I be a leader? In addition, the day will include various exercises and activities (indoor and outdoor) to apply principles of leadership and trust.
The Institute concluded with a survey that assessed the reactions, opinions, and suggestions of all student participants (both OΔK and high school students). Based upon the feedback we received, we will host another leadership conference in Marion at Francis Marion High School in the Spring of 2007. To fund this new endeavor, the Samford OΔK Circle received a Clay Grant from the national organization of Omicron Delta Kappa -- one of the six circles in the country to receive this prestigious grant.
