Fall 2011 Newsletter

The Premier Pearl Official Newsletter of Xi Mu Zeta “The Premier Graduate Chapter” Markham IL Summer -Fall Issue 2011

Dove Note from the President

Greetings and thank you for reading the chapter newsletter of

Xi Mu Zeta Chapter. Since 1989, we have developed programs

and initiatives to serve the needs of the Markham community,

surrounding suburbs and the Chicagoland area. Our chapter has

a membership of college educated, innovative women with

diverse professional backgrounds who have a common goal to

serve the community. We use simple beliefs, bold ideas, and the desire for change as

tools to uplift those in need. We invite women who have not completed college, but

have a desire to serve the community, to join our Amicae (Friends of Zeta) Auxiliary.

We also invite girls ages 4– 18 to join our youth auxiliaries. Xi Mu Zeta encourages

sisterhood and fosters an atmosphere where women are excited and motivated to lend

their time and talent for the betterment of humanity.

We are dedicated to upholding the ideals of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and

Finer Womanhood through our workshops, signature programs, and with partnerships

and collaboration. Honoring our commitment to Zeta Phi Beta’s International Z-HOPE

(Zeta's Helping Other People Excel) Initiative, we bring a multi-dimensional approach to

our programs. The Z-HOPE Initiative is an interactive, holistic, outreach program

designed to enhance, cultivate, and empower participants toward healthy lifestyle

choices. Xi Mu Zeta’s signature programs are tailored to meet the needs of our service

area with the spirit of Z-HOPE and growing economic challenges in mind.

Working with community partners and supporters allows us to touch the pulse of the

people we serve. We value our partnerships with other non-profit organizations,

especially those who complement our Z-HOPE initiatives. Signature programs are

developed using our 501c3 organization – The Pearl Foundation. As the charitable arm

of Xi Mu Zeta, the foundation is used to initiate funding for annual scholarships and

programs such as Stork's Nest, Girl Power, Adopt-A-Family, and our Annual Holiday

Toy Drive.

Thank you and I hope you enjoy the newsletter! Xi Mu Zeta Chapter welcomes you to

learn more about our programs. We hope to see you at our upcoming events. Please

feel free to share your interest by contacting [email protected].

Adrienne E. Turner

Xi Mu Zeta President

MISSION STATEMENT

We are a community

conscious, action oriented

organization that takes a

holistic approach to providing

service, with a sincere desire

to touch the pulse of the

community through our

programs and partners.

IN THIS ISSUE

ZOL Leadership

Conference

Relay for Life

Kid fest

Markham Fest

Girl Power

Membership Fall Informational

IL State

Leadership Conference

Making Strides for Breast Cancer

Sisters of Soul & Song

Southland Coalition

Thanks4Giving

Annual Toy Drive

Santa’s Workshop

Holiday Party

Amicae Fundraiser

The Pearl Foundation

UPCOMING EVENTS

mailto:[email protected]


Sheryl P. Underwood, 23rd International President, welcomed everyone to

Washington, D.C., for the Zeta

Organizational Leadership training

July 7-10, 2011. A number of

members from Xi Mu Zeta Chapter

were in attendance. The leadership

training highlights include, but are

not limited to: Great workshops,

The debut of the Zeta National

Choir and tours of Washington, D.C.

About the Zeta Organizational

Leadership Program

The Zeta Organizational Leadership (ZOL) program is a future-focused, na-

tionally structured intensified leadership training program that serves as the

blue print for the Sorority’s leadership development and enhancement ef-

forts. It was designed to ensure a future talent pool of leadership for Zeta

on the national level of our Sorority by delivering consistent, high quality

training. It was developed by a think tank of talented Sorors from diverse

backgrounds who are experts in their respective fields and are serving and

have served at the highest levels within Zeta and others organizations. The

overarching goal of the ZOL program is to provide Zetas with the essential

knowledge and skills to be exceptional leaders within and as a natural re-

sult, outside of Zeta. It is wholly focused on training Zetas who are cur-

rently in leadership positions and who want to become leaders.

The Harvey/Markham Relay for Life Event was held on July 23, 2011. This life-changing event is hosted in

communities across the United States. It is a celebration for individuals who have battled Cancer and fought

back against the disease, as well as, an opportunity to remember lost loved ones.

WHITE PEARLS & BLUE SHIELDS (Xi Mu Zeta and Omicron Alpha Sigma) helped the South Suburban Relay

for Life Team collect donations. Xi Mu Zeta’s team captain, JuTun King, kicked off the fundraising activities

for Xi Mu Zeta by selling specialty cookies, candies and other items. We also partnered with the Housing,

Police and Fire Departments of Markham, IL to reach fundraising goals.

RELAY FOR LIFE

ZETA

ORGANIZATIONAL

LEADERSHIP


Xi Mu Zeta Chapter held the annual Girl Power workshops on August 24, 2011

at Markham City Hall. There were 95 young ladies ages 7-17 who were

empowered at this event. They learned about self-esteem, being self confident,

financial independence and careers. The young ladies received breakfast, lunch

and book bags filled with school supplies. They were entertained with a mini

step show by our Amicettes and members of Xi Mu Zeta Chapter.

The City of Markham had its annual Markham Festival on August 20,

2011 at Roesner Park. The theme this year was “Coming Home To

Markham It’s A Family Reunion”. There were vendors, food, live music

and performances by Greek organizations. Xi Mu Zeta Chapter had an

information table and we answered questions about our Sorority and

upcoming events.

MARKHAM FEST

Ingalls Memorial Hospital and Family Christian Health Center had its

annual Kid Fest on July 30, 2011 across the street from Ingalls Hospi-

tal in Harvey, IL. Kid Fest is an event where children can get school

physicals, dental screenings and immunizations prior to starting the

school year. The women of Xi Mu Zeta Chapter and Friends of Zeta

participated by providing information about the Sorority, Xi Mu Zeta

Chapter and Auxiliaries, The Pearl Foundation, Stork’s Nest and Girl

Power workshops.

KID FEST

GIRL POWER


“ROYAL HARVEST” FALL INFORMATIONAL & TEA The Membership Committee hosted its Fall Informational and Mother/Daughter

Tea on Saturday, September 24, 2011 entitled, “Royal Harvest: Harvesting the

spirit of Zeta” The event included all of our chapter Auxiliaries. Xi Mu Zeta

members, Friends of Zeta, Pearlettes, Amicettes and Archonettes presented in-

formation to future and returning members of our illustrious organization.

Participants were informed about Zeta History, Xi Mu Zeta History, Auxiliary

History, National and local partnerships, programs and events. The participants

were also entertained with games, activities, refreshments; plus, a special Zeta

stroll and song.

Xi Mu Zeta members were on the move at the 45th Annual State Leadership Conference on

September 30th - October 1st at Bradley University in Peoria, IL, hosted by Phi Delta Chap-ter. Xi Mu Zeta chapter received recognition and 3rd place for our Z-HOPE initiatives. Xi

Mu Zeta’s President Adrienne E. Turner facilitated a workshop on “Rules of Engagement”

and chaired the bylaws committee meeting. Illinois State Representative, Connie Pugh,

facilitated a workshop on “Conflict Resolution”. Xi Mu Zeta members attended many great

workshops and MIP certification.

A BLUTIFUL STATE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Xi Mu Zeta Chapter and Amicettes partnered with the Southland

Coalition and Ingalls Memorial Hospital at their annual Breast Cancer

Forum on October 15, 2011. This year's event was held at Georgios'

Banquet in Orland Park, Illinois. Xi Mu Zeta’s Janet Bell is a member of

the Southland Coalition Board. Chapter members along with the

Amicettes, supporters and friends assisted with hosting, registration and

general assistance in making this event a success. The event included a

Q & A with a diverse panel board of

cancer survivors, family members of

late cancer patients, and medical pro-

fessionals. Surveys were distributed and

collected for constructive feedback on

the program. A raffle was held and to-

kens of appreciation were awarded to

the lucky winners.

SOUTHLAND COALITION BREAST CANCER AWARENESS FORUM


MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER

The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk was held

October 16, 2011 at Centennial Park in Orland Park, Illinois.

Xi Mu Zeta chapter is an annual participant in this event.

The Making Strides event is not a race; it is a 5k walk and

celebration of survivorship, an occasion to express hope, and

a shared goal to end a disease that threatens the lives of so

many people we love. When we raise funds for a Making

Strides event, we are helping create a world with less breast

cancer.

THANKS4GIVING With the spirit of Service and Sisterhood, Xi Mu Zeta Chapter

provided Thanksgiving Baskets to 6 families in the Markham area on

November 20, 2011. The family names were submitted by Victory

Christian Assemble Church and Christ Temple M. B. Church both of

Markham. The members of Xi Mu Zeta helped with the shopping,

packing and delivering of the baskets. It was a wonderful experience

to see the joy on the faces of these families when they received their

baskets. Each church expressed their appreciation and gratitude to

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and Xi Mu Zeta Chapter for this annual

project.

“SISTERS OF SOUL & SONG” FALL FUNDRAISER

On Sunday, October 16, 2011, Xi Mu Zeta

Chapter had her Fall Fundraiser. Xi Mu Zeta

member, Terisa Griffin, was in concert with her

sister Mary Griffin at the historic DuSable

Museum. The event was an outstanding success.

Guests were treated to a pre-concert reception, a

clip of the movie “The Truth” which was written

and produced by Phi Beta Sigma member Randy

Crumpton. The guests also enjoyed Griffin’s video

“You Got Me” before the powerful performance

by the Sisters of Soul. Guests received gift bags that included Griffin’s latest CD “Soulzophrenic”, an event-

themed bookmark, and other items donated by supporters and friends. Months later, our guests are still

talking about the wonderful time that they had that evening.


Santa’s Workshop was held on December 9, 2011 to wrap the toys from our toy drive. Members

of Xi Mu Zeta Chapter, Friends of Zeta, and our youth were present to wrap gifts. The toys were

donated to various local organizations throughout Markham, IL and Chicagoland.

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

ANNUAL TOY DRIVE

The Annual Toy Drive was held on December 8, 2011 at Buffalo

Wild Wings, in Calumet City, IL. This signature event of Xi Mu Zeta

Chapter raised over 200 toys and gifts cards. All donations benefited

Family Rescue, Inc., Markham Park District, Stevie Wonder's House

Full of Toys, our Adopt-A-Family program and more Xi Mu Zeta

Members, Amicae, other Illinois

Zeta Chapters, Brothers of Phi

Beta Sigma, family and friends

enjoyed a great night for a

worthy cause. Special thanks to

the Ruff Ryders for their

contributions.

Kudos to Xi Mu Zeta

on a Job well Done!


The Holiday Party was held on December 10, 2011 at the Transitional

House in Chicago, Illinois. This is an annual signature event of Xi Mu

Zeta. Chapter members and friends did a wonderful job giving a helping

hand. The children participated in a variety of arts and crafts that

sparked their creativity. After having a meal each child was amazed as

their dear friend Santa Claus walked through the door. Gifts were given

to each party goer as they visited with Santa. As the children and their

parents departed they received a holiday goodie bag filled with treats.

Everyone pulled together with the Christmas Spirit and made this a

memorable day.

HOLIDAY PARTY

Adopt-A-Family is funded by our charitable arm, The Pearl Foundation. The Adopt-A-Family

initiative provides the adopted families with food, staples and other items needed during the holiday

season and beyond. The families are recommended by our community partners in the South Subur-

ban Markham area. Adopt-A-Family program offers the gifts of hope, encouragement and caring to

those in need.

Xi Mu Zeta Chapter believes in giving. Annually, we adopt a local family and present them with gifts.

On Saturday, December 24, 2011, Xi Mu Zeta chapter members and our youth auxiliary delivered

holiday cheer. Mr. Randall Johnson and his family was very thankful for the kindness shown to

them.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY


For the past four years, The Pearl Foundation has raised money for scholarship by staffing a concession

stand at Soldier Field. Chapter members, family and friends greeted, cheered, and sang, as we served the

fans at soccer games, concerts and Chicago Bears games. Our efforts helped us award $10,000 in scholar-

ships to four graduating high school seniors and one returning

college student last season. “2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate?

The Fans!” and our volunteers, of course! We could not have

done it without you!

As the charitable arm of Xi Mu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta

Sorority, Inc., The Pearl Foundation takes a holistic approach to

servicing the community. Exemplifying the ideals of scholarship,

service and sisterly love, the foundation awards annual scholar-

ships, partners with community based organizations to provide

service, and mentors youth through the youth auxiliaries of the

sorority. Honoring its commitment to the community, the founda-

tion has formed alliances with other not-for-profit organizations.

The foundation also develops signature programs to fulfill the

needs of our community.

THE PEARL FOUNDATION

AMICAE AUXILARY “SHADES OF BLUE”

On December 17, 2011, the Friends of Zeta Auxiliary (known as Amicae) of Xi Mu Zeta Chapter held a

fundraiser to benefit the chapter’s Storks’ Nest Program. “Shades of Blue” was held at EduFun in

South Holland, Illinois. Xi Mu Zeta chapter members, family and friends came out to enjoy the raffles,

dancing, food and entertainment. The Amicae and Stork’s participants are grateful to everyone for

their support in making the event a success.


UPCOMING EVENTS


Xi Mu Zeta Chapter “The Premier Graduate Chapter” was chartered in 1989 by

twenty-two women linked by a common goal to support their community and

to uphold the ideals of Zeta Phi Beta sorority, Incorporated. The chapter, based

in Markham, Illinois, provides community service throughout Markham and

other south suburbs as well as the Chicago Metropolitan area. Honoring its

commitment to women, in 1989 Xi Mu Zeta adopted the Family Rescue Shelter

a shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. Chapter members

coordinate monthly workshops on health, beauty and employment to assist the

women's transition back to normal lifestyles. The chapter also brings cheer to

families living at the shelter during the holidays.

Our signature programs, Adopt-A-Family, Girl Power, The Family Rescue An-

nual Holiday Party and Stay Awake for Babies are designed to join forces with

organizations in the community in efforts to serve in a consistent manner. Xi

Mu Zeta Chapter believes in community involvement among youth and adults.

The chapter currently has Pearlettes, Amicettes and Archonettes as well as an

Amicae Auxiliary to help accomplish greater community service goals.

The chapter actively supports the efforts of local and national organizations -

including The City of Markham; Family Rescue, Inc.; Ingalls Memorial Hospital;

Markham Park District; March of Dimes; American Heart Association; Southland

Coalition to Conquer Breast Cancer; Lupus Foundation of IL; Healthy Baby

Network; Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago; and, the

Sickle Cell Disease Association of Illinois.

Since its inception, Xi Mu Zeta Chapter's achievements have been applauded.

The chapter has received numerous certificates of merit and awards within the

sorority and the community we serve.

Contact Us:

P.O. Box 497

Markham, Illinois 60428-0497

Phone: 877-XMZ-1989

Website: www.ximuzeta89.org

Email:[email protected]

XI MU ZETA HERITAGE 2010-2012

Executive Board

Adrienne E. Turner President

Karen A. Franklin 1st Vice President

Nicole Hondras Recording Secretary

Michele E. Posey Treasurer

Nadine Glover Financial Secretary

Vera M. Paul Parliamentarian

Rebecca Y. Kuykendoll Historian

Gwendolyn Smith Chaplain

Special thanks to the Executive Board,

Committee Chairs & the best Marketing Committee for your contributions to the

Premier Pearl Newsletter.

Rebecca Y. Kuykendoll

Editor-in-Chief

Fall 2011 Newsletter

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