Delta Phi Omega 2006 Literacy Through Unity Week:

Delta Phi Omega is proud to announce Asha For Education as the 2006 Literacy Through Unity Week Beneficiary. To learn more about this organization, please visit our Supported Organizations page.

Being able to read and write is fundamental to be able to function more effectively in life and participate in the transformation of a society. Illiteracy contributes to a destructive vicious cycle of poverty. It is our mission as South Asians to begin to end this cycle through children's education. Literacy is just the first step to self-determination; it is an important instrument for individual progress, social change, and is essential for continued economic growth. The most recent statistics are disheartening; the current literacy rate in India is 52%. India has the dubious distinction of having the largest number of illiterate people in the world. The bottom line is that literacy is a fundamental human right that can foster change in poverty stricken and underprivileged areas. The eradication of widespread illiteracy is an essential requirement for promoting democracy and stepping up national and social development. With our combined efforts, together we can help advance the idea that "Knowledge is Power".

In our philanthropic efforts, we will be holding our third anuual "Literacy Through Unity" week dedicated to raise awareness about children's education and literacy, as well as raising monetary funds through a week of events in February 2005 by each chapter or colony at their respective universities and cities. In 2004, we were able to raise over $10,000 and the goal for 2005 is to raise a total of $20,000 for this cause. The funds we raise will be given to Pratham USA as well as local charitable organizations affiliated with each corresponding colony or chapter. Some of these scheduled events include:

< Community service projects
< Book drives
< Fundraising carnivals
< Sponsored dinners and informationals by organizations such as Pratham USA, CARE, Project NorthStar etc.
< Volunteer Auctions
< Movie Night
< Raffle Ticket Sales
< Coffeehouse and Book discussion

Please support your local Delta Phi Omega Sorority chapter or colony in reaching its goal and supporting its effort to abolish illiteracy!

If you are interested in being a corporate sponsor for this event, please contact us at dpo.nationalcouncil@gmail.com .