The Sisters of S.H.A.P.E. (S.O.S.) is a community based grass-roots organization created to provide financial support for S.H.A.P.E. Community Center in the Village of 3rd Ward, Houston Texas. S.O.S. is comprised of women who sponsor fundraising events and give all of the proceeds to enhance the programs at S.H.A.P.E. Community Center. S.O.S. is committed to the survival, longevity, and prosperity of our children, families, communities. We believe that providing financial support is one of the best ways to demonstrate this belief. S.O.S. was created in September 2004. It continues to be a viable force in our community. In 2005, S.O.S. created seven fundraising projects, generating more than $25,000 for S.H.A.P.E. Community Center.
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Philosophy
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The Kawaidaa or Nguzo Saba, also known as The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa provides the philosophical foundation of S.O.S. and S.H.A.P.E. Community Center. Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, the Nguzo Saba guides the way we function as an organization. The ethical principles are:
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Ujoma (Unity) |
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Kujichagulia (Self -determination |
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Ujima (Collective Work and REsponsibility) |
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Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) |
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Nia (Purpose) |
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Kuumba (Creativity) |
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Imani (Faith) |
These principles as guidelines allows us to make positive decisions and plan activities that benefit our community. We live by these principles every day not only during Kwanzaa. |
Membership
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The membership consists of more than 100 women in the greater Houston area. Membership is voluntary and becomes official when a perspective member completes a membership card. Members attend meetings as necessary depending on their interest in a project(s). The membership fee is a small amount that is voluntary and can be paid annually or bi-annually. Membership fees are used to pre-fund projects as necessary. The treasurer maintains a list of dues paid by the members in financial ledger. |
Meetings |
Meetings are called as necessary, usually by the president or project leader. The project leader is usually the sister who has an idea for a fundraising project. The purpose of the meetings is to approve the minutes, plan the project(s) designing flyers, promoting the event, selling tickets, and providing the needed to accomplish the project. Most meetings occur on a weekly basis on Saturday mornings. |
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Fundraising Projects for 2008
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| 1. February 16, 2008 |
Membership Mixer
(A fun, informative mixer to recruit new members and reconnect with old members; at this event, the 2008 plans will be rolled out.)
Goal $1,000 |
Nefertitti Jackmon |
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| 2. April 19, 2008 |
African Market Garage Sale
(An inside and outdoor market of new and used items. The highlight of this market is African collectibles and clothes.)
Goal $500
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Ayanna Ade |
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| 3. August 15 & 16, 2008 |
S.O.S. Overnight Retreat
(Dinner, music, movies, girl-talk, massages, manicures/pedicures, relaxation techniques, dancing and more.)
Goal $2,925
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Ayanna Ade &
Nefertitti Jackmon |
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| 4. October 18, 2008 |
Benefit Concert
(A fall benefit concert to raise funds for S.HA.P.E. Community Center.)
Goal $2,925 |
Ayanna Ade |
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| 5. November 18, 2008 |
Ten Thousand Villages
(An opportunity to shop and to support S.H.A.P.E... Ten Thousand Villages promotes fair trade practices which strengthens the livelihood of artisans in developing nations.. 15% of the purchases made on that night will be donate to S.HA.P.E. Community Center.)
Goal $500 |
Nefertitti Jackmon |
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| 6. January 2008 - December 2008 |
Coins for S.H.A.P.E.
(Don't walk over those pennies. Save your change throughout the year and donate them to S.H.A.P.E. Together every effort makes a difference.))
Goal $600 |
Angelina Chambers |
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