South Jersey AKA Chapters Promote HIV/AIDS Awareness

Ewing, NJ ----On November 14, 2007, the Pi Mu Omega (Willingboro, NJ), Epsilon Upsilon Omega (Trenton, NJ), Theta Pi Omega (Moorestown, NJ), and Zeta Sigma (The College of New Jersey) chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) School of Nursing, School of Culture and Society, and City of Trenton Department of Health and Human Services, with the support of the department of African American Studies -TCNJ) hosted an HIV/AIDS panel in support of the North Atlantic Region's Project HOPE (Helping Other People Excel) intiative. The event took place in the Don Evans Black Box Theater at The College of New Jersey campus in Ewing, New Jersey and focused on the fact that a disproportionate number of people infected with HIV and AIDS are minorities. The event also highlighted methods of promoting prevention and awareness.

The panelists for this program included: Dr. Christopher Coleman - Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, Martina Crespo - HIV Survivor, Rev. Dr. Stanley Justice - Pastor of Trenton's Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Larry Ganges - Assistant Commissioner for the Division of HIV/AIDS Services of the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. The program was well attended by 60 high school students, 10 senior citizens, sorority members, and 122 community members.

The event was moderated by Gloria Dickinson, Centennial International Regional Director and Pi Mu Omega chapter member. One of the other main points addressed by all of the panelists was the vital need of more education and awareness of the fact that this disease is preventable. In addition to the informative and thought-provoking speeches, the audience received pink "goody bags" featuring male and female condoms, dental dams, and instructional brochures. The importance of abstinence as a viable option was also discussed. At the conclusion of the program, donations were given to Rev. Dr. Justice for the HIV/AIDS ministry at Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church in Trenton.

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Pictured above in the first picture are the audience in attendance.

Pictured above in the second picture are members of the Zeta Sigma chapter at TCNJ.

Pictured above are students with Pi Mu Omega president, Shirley Jones.