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DREF recognizes tomorrow as World Mental Health Day 2026, observed on October 10, 2026,  The official theme this year is "Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change". Lived experience is what someone has experienced themselves, especially when it gives the individual knowledge or understanding that people who have only heard or learnt about such experiences do not have. "People start to heal th moment they feel heard". Lend an ear!
 DREF's research arm, the Sister Scholars Advisory Council (SSAC) conducted research, hosted webinars, and produced reports and resources highlighting disparities and solutions for Black communities. Visit https://deltafoundation.net/disparitytoequity/ to learn more. #DST1913, #DREF, #WorldMentalHealthDay,  #BlackHealthEquity, #MentalHealthAwareness, #MentalWellness,#MentalHealthMatters

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This October, DREF stands in solidarity with survivors, those currently fighting, and those we have lost to breast cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise our voices, support research, and foster a culture of care and advocacy within our community. We  encourage all women and families to lift each other up, share resources, and ensure that every woman has access to the care and support she deserves. You are not alone. #DST1913, #DREF, #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth, #CommunitySupport,  #StrongerTogether, #HealthAdvocacy, #BreastCancerResearch

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Greetings!  Due to overwhelming interest, we have closed recruitment for 2026-2027 Sister Scholars participation.
 We thank you for your interest and invite you to connect with DREF social media pages to stay informed about our programs and additional opportunities to support DREF. Pease visit
https://deltafoundation.net/sister-scholars-advisory-council/ to learn more about the Sister Scholars Advisory Council and resources under the DREF Center for Research on African American Women (The Center). #DST1913 #DREF #SisterScholarsAdvisoryCouncil #DREFResearchMatters, #AfricanAmericanWomen, #ResearchForChange

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  DREF reminds us all that knowledge is power, and understanding the facts is a crucial step in taking care of our community. Did you know that while Black women have a slightly lower incidence rate of breast cancer compared to white women, we are roughly 38% to 40% more likely to die from the disease?  breastcancer.org  nationalbreastcancer.org These disparities are real, but we can fight back through awareness, proactive health advocacy, and regular screenings. Let’s stay informed and support one another in closing this gap. #DST1913, #KnowTheFacts #BreastCancerDisparities #HealthEquity #BlackWomenStrong, #AwarenessMatters, #CloseTheGap

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"CALLING SISTER SCHOLARS: Join Us for 2026–2027!"
 The DREF Sister Scholars Advisory Council (SSAC) is gearing up for another productive year of research, publications, presentations, and scholarly engagement.
 SSAC brings together established scholars from inside and outside of academia, who lend their expertise to research and initiatives addressing critical issues affecting African American women and communities. Join a network of volunteer scholars, builders, and leaders who are members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., who are committed to using research, knowledge, and collective expertise to support the Black community.  Visit https://deltafoundation.net/sister-scholars-advisory-council/read more about the opportunity to join the Council.  The first meeting will be October 22, 2026 @  8 p.m. ET | 7 p.m. CT | 6 p.m. MT | 5 p.m. PT.  Email: sisterscholars@deltafoundation.net to express your interest in attending and joining. #DST1913 #DREF #SisterScholarsAdvisoryCouncil #DREFResearchMatters, #BlackWomenScholars , #ResearchForChange

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Creating Possibilities…
Improving Lives

“Research Matters: Creating Possibilities to Achieve Health and Wellness for All of Us” focuses on outreach and education to African Americans about the significant role biomedical research plays in addressing health disparities.

As we continue to explore health equity issues, DREF is proud to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association. The three planned webinars are designed to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

DREF awards scholarships and internship opportunities to student applicants entering college or continuing their academic programs. Students must meet both academic and community service requirements.

The Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) supports DST Chapters, Individuals and Families by providing a comprehensive Financial Health & Wellness Webinar Series.

Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF)

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. established the Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) as a public charity supporting scholastic achievement, public service programs, and research initiatives focused upon African American women.

VISION The DREF vision is to Create Possibilities and Improve Lives.

MISSION The Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) identifies issues affecting Black women, their families, and communities of the African Diaspora globally, and creates solutions through research, programming, and funding in support of charitable and educational programs of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and other collaborative organizations.