LAPLACE – The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority recently held its 54^th National Convention in New Orleans. While the convention was cut short due to Hurricane Barry, the sorority made national headlines when it donated 17,000 meals to disaster relief.

The local River Parishes Alumnae Chapter was represented in attendance and in awards. During the convention, local soror Doris Poindexter received a Red S.H.O.E award, which promotes healthy habits and choices that Deltas and women everywhere are encouraged to adopt. The acronym stands for self-care, healthy living options and exercise.

Poindexter said the River Parishes chapter, chartered in 2013, puts a local spin on the Delta Sigma Theta’s national thrusts: economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health and political awareness and involvement.

The local chapter has more than 50 active members across St. John the Baptist, St. James and St. Charles parishes often clad in signature “crimson and cream” colors. Its members volunteer at year-round at events geared toward all ages. In addition to giving back to the community through scholarships, the group also gives educational seminars for children and the elderly and free AIDS testing events.