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The Academy for Girls’ Christmas celebration included a holiday gathering at the home of Dee Strum. Academy girls and members alike gathered for food and fun before heading off to see a stage play at the Indianapolis Civic Theatre. Entitled Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, this modern day story was the tale of Joseph and his brethren, one of the Bible’s great epics of upward mobility.
During Black History Month on February 21, 2005, the Academy for Girls traveled by bus from Indianapolis to Cincinnati, Ohio to visit the Nation Underground Railroad Freedom Center. During this cultural excursion, the Academy girls and NC100BW members learned more about the road from Slavery to freedom. They explored the Middle Passage, the slave trade route from Africa to the Americans, and its impact on our country’s economic and culture development.
The African American Coalition (AAC) presented “Indiana Black Legislative Caucus Forum” on February 23, 2005 at the Indianapolis Urban League. African American legislators met with AAC members at the Indianapolis Urban League to share their analysis of legislation that would be submitted during the 2005 General Assembly. NC100BW is one of the lead organizations of the AAC.
In celebration of Black History month, the Personal and Professional Development Committee coordinated an Academy outing to the Indiana Repertory Theatre. The group saw the play A Woman Called Truth. Prior to the outing, the girls were given an in-service on how to appreciate the theatre and theatre etiquette. They discussed Sojourner Truth, the play’s main character, and the character traits that make women strong. The Personal and Professional Development Committee is chaired by Betty Gilliam.
Spring
Legislative Day(s) was held on Capital Hill in Washington, D.C. on April 18 and 19, 2005. NC100BW met to discuss pertinent bills in the areas of health, education and economic development.
The Arts and Culture committee, chaired by Barbara Bridges, secured a grant from The Civic Center. The Academy for Girls learned about the inner-workings of the theatre and received acting lessons. The Academy for Girls performed a play which was developed for them as part of the Civic Center partnership.
NC100BW and 100 Black Men partnered to select a student to fill United Way’s Summer Intern position for 2005. Over 25 minority college students from the greater Indianapolis area were screened and interview for the position. NC100BW helps to fund the Minority Internship position.
NC100BW joined with the International Center to host a dinner for the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) during its Midwest Regional Meeting. Key leaders from the State Department and Washington based agencies visited our city on May 19th-21st. Indianapolis showcased its exceptional resources, amenities, and diverse cultures during this “Celebration of Citizen Diplomacy.” Visitors had chance to experience diversity in the city, as well as a wonderful dinner hosted by NC100BW. Members in attendance included Dee Strum, Mary Harden, Colleen Smith, Dorothy Oldham, Michelle Smith, Rita Venable, and Brenda Burke.
Summer
Hats off to our “Breakthrough Women” took place at the historic Madame C. J. Walker Theatre Center on June 4, 2005. This festive event was commemorated by the membership wearing beautiful hats in all styles and colors. Breakthrough Women is planned by the Economic Development Committee, which was chaired by Ruby Harris.
NC100BW’s National Leadership Retreat was held in Cancun, Mexico on June 16-19 at the Westin Resort and Spa. The theme for the retreat was “Sustainable Leadership.” ure. Facilitators included our own Michelle Smith, Anika Calloway, Cynthia Oda, Dee Strum, and founding member Faye Williams.
The Academy for Girls participated in Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration Youth Summit. They attended the monthly planning sessions to develop workshops and the group received $5,000 in scholarship monies. Member Joyce Q. Rogers is the CEO for Indiana Black Expo.
United Way’s Minority Volunteer Breakfast took place on June 16, 2005 during the Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration. Our members, Dr. Virginia Caine and Faye McDaniel, were recognized for their volunteerism.
The Academy’s Book Club read two thought-provoking books during the summer. The books-I know why the Caged Bird Sings, and Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry-were read and discussed. Phyllis Patterson, Michelle Smith, and Ruby Harris served as facilitators.
On August 11, 2005, the Membership Committee, chaired by Melinda Pinner held its “meet and greet”. Approximately 15 women interested in membership met with the community to discuss our organization’s mission, goals and expectations. As a result, we gained 9 new members during 2005.
On August 27th, The Mercy Foundation hosted its 2nd annual AIDS Awareness reception and AIDS program at the Madame Walker Theatre Center. The event was designed to increase the awareness of AIDS in the Indianapolis community. NCBW was a sponsor of this informative event and member Dr. Mercy Obeime is the founder.
Fall
NCBW geared up for the new Academy for Girls program year. Academy candidates, parents, and members met at Arlington High School to review the 2005-2006 program. NC100BW will continue to partner with Studio 2B and Arlington High School for the new program year.
September 20th was “Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day.” Community partners and businesses came together in support of this important day. The day was designed to generate a greater understanding of the importance of regular health screenings while at the same time focus on populations that tend to have the least access to health care.
NC100BW was selected as Brightpoint’s featured non-profit organization for September. Our organization was highlighted in the Indianapolis Business Journal in a 3/4th page ad and a web-link attached to IBJ’s online site.
Winter
NC100BW gathered with friends for a retreat on November 18th and 19th. The retreat was themed as “Living Life Like It’s Golden” and featured a number of activities such as a “pamper night”, a Saturday morning “fitness hour”, and networking. Yoga was instructed by member and Cityoga owner Nikki Myers while the Pilates workout was taught by member Marva Stanford. Member Dr. Mercy Obeime presented on The Risks of Diabetes and Obesity and founding member, Atty. Faye Williams, spoke on The Value of Mentoring and Networking. It was a wonderful event enjoyed by all.
Yet to come…
Scheduled for December 1-4, the It’s All About MEE! Mobilization, Education and Empowerment Conference will be held in Los Angeles, California. NC100BW partners with the Black AIDS Institute for its first national women’s conference. The purpose of the event is to bring together a diverse and powerful group of Black women who want to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS among our sistahs and in our communities.
Our Thank you Gourmet Gents! celebration will take place on Friday, December 9, 2005 at Bonefish Grill “After-Dark”. Festivities will began at 10:30 pm. There will be live entertainment, dancing, and culinary delights. Spice up in your cocktail attire and simmer into the mix at this highly seasoned holiday event.
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