Each year in the United States, more than 380,000 babies are born preterm—that’s one baby every two seconds. Some are so small they could fit in the palm of your hand. Mothers of color are 20% more likely to give birth prematurely and their children are facing a 40% higher infant mortality rate.
To help combat this serious health crisis in communities across the United States, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is continuing its 45-year history of working directly with March of Dimes. This year, to celebrate the successful 45-year track record, Zeta members formed over 400 teams across America and raised $569, 409 in their local March for Babies walks, earning the Top Fundraising National Service Partner award. Over the past five years, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has raised over $2 million dollars for March of Dimes.
“Since 1972, we have placed great value on our partnership with March of Dimes beginning with their support of our Stork’s Nest incentive-based program that offers prenatal health education to low-income pregnant women. Through our local nests, our members distribute more than 250,000 baby-related items annually,” said Dr. Mary Breaux Wright, International President for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. “This year our members have proudly celebrated the 45th anniversary of our partnership, and are ready to continue our successful legacy of raising funds for March of Dimes and advocating for the women and children in our communities.”
This year also marks the 15-year anniversary of the Zeta Prematurity Awareness Program (ZPAP) held during Prematurity Awareness Month in November. By joining forces to conduct prematurity awareness activities in houses of worship and congregations, worshipers learn more about this health crisis. Annually, ZPAP reaches more than 65,000 worshippers nationwide.
About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded in 1920 on the belief that the
social nature of sorority life should not overshadow the real mission for progressive organizations to address societal mores, ills, prejudices, poverty, and health concerns of the day. The international organization’s 125,000+ initiated members, operating in more than 850 chapters, have given millions of voluntary hours to educate the public, provide scholarships, support organized charities, and promote legislation for social and civic change. For more information on Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., please visit www.zphib1920.org.