One of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. national program platforms is Health Resource Management. Each AKA member is asked to commit herself to living healthier by improving her lifestyle and getting all necessary preventive and screening exams as recommended by the medical community. While noting the national programs, the Rho Eta Omega Chapter, via its Health Committee, has implementation of the following programs to help assure a healthier membership and community…

Monthly Health Tips. Based on national health observance and topics that impact African American women and their family, educational handouts, articles, displays and/or tips were shared via the newsletter and during monthly chapter meetings.

Health Challenge. In January, the Health Committee provides the chapter with a health challenge. Members are encouraged to challenge themselves to commit to at least one healthy lifestyle habit. Such habits included: drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day, eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, decreasing the fat and sodium, increasing the fiber and/or engaging in physical activity at least 3 times per week. Participants share testimonials regarding progress during the November meeting. Incentive prizes are awarded.

Walk REO.. On 2nd and 4th Saturdays, members are encouraged to come out and walk at a local mall. The mall was contacted to inquire as to mileage. Participants are provided with a walking log to capture the miles walked each week and encouraged to wear Alpha Kappa Alpha paraphernalia. Friends and family members joined us during the fitness walks.

Blood Pressure Monitoring. A blood pressure screening is held quarterly. Participants are provided with a Rho Eta Omega blood pressure card for tracking and monitoring purposes. Persons with elevated readings were given recommendations based on current national guidelines. Testimonials are shared regarding physician response and treatment.

Go Red for Women. In recognition of this national effort of the American Heart Association, heart healthy information was distributed. Members wear red to the February chapter meeting. It is an awesome photo with all of Rho Eta Omega’s members dressed in red!

Taste Testing. During chapter meetings, members are given the opportunity to taste a food item with low or reduced fat, salt or sugar. Baked and low fat potato chips were tasted. Food labels of each along with regular potato chips were distributed. Sorbet was also a taste testing opportunity. The goal of this event is for members to make a healthier choice when selecting food items.

REO-Community Service…

Carver Carnival. Carver Elementary School sponsors an annual carnival. Rho Eta Omega provided a booth on dental health. Members solicited dentists and secured toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental literature for distribution.

Health Forum. “For Women By Women…Respect Yourself”, a three and a half hour seminar was held for the community at large. Health screenings and presentations from dynamic professionals on heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, stress management, medication management and access to health care was on the program.

50 Million Pound Challenge. “Join Rho Eta Omega in the National 50 Million Pound Challenge”, joining THE 50 MILLION POUND CHALLENGE means becoming part of something exciting, life-altering, historic, and tremendously beneficial! Not only for you, but to others in your family and community, as well as to future generations. Click on www.50millionpound.com to join our team.

For without a healthy balance of the body, mind and spirit, we would not be fit to serve. If you would like to partner with Rho Eta Omega or have other ideas to assist in improving the health of our community, email us at health@reoaka.org.