On this Motivational Monday, be reminded that September is Suicide Prevention Month, but every month matters when someone is having challenges. 🖤 The national theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" is a call to action to "Start the Conversation". As DREF Aligns Advocacy and Action we recognize that for Black communities, talking about mental health is an act of care, courage, and connection. Too many of us carry pain in silence—but you do not have to face it alone.
DREF`s Sister Scholars Advisory Council developed a report and several resources that help communities understand and learn more about this topic. Visit :https://deltafoundation.net/disparitytoequity/ to access "From Disparity to Equity: A ROAD MAP FOR CLOSING BLACK HEALTHCARE GAPS".
There is no single cause for suicide. Depression and other mental health conditions are often assumed to be the cause, but many people manage these conditions successfully and not everyone who attempts suicide has a diagnosis. Specialists broadly agree that identifying and supporting those most vulnerable, rather than relying on crisis care alone, is one of the most effective prevention strategies available. Your story matters. Asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
#DST1913, #DREF, #SuicidePreventionMonth #BlackMentalHealth #BlackMentalWellness #988Lifeline #YouAreNotAlone #MentalHealthMatters #HealingInCommunity ...

DREF celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month 2026 which takes place from September 15 to October 15, 2026, celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. #DST1913, #DREF, #CelebrateDiversity #HispanicHeritageMonth #HispanicPride #CulturalHeritage ...

September is recognized as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Awareness Month to honor the history, legacy, and impact of the nation`s more than 100 HBCUs, nationally. The month aims to encourage students to enroll in HBCUs, raise scholarship funds, and build employment pipelines into corporate America and other sectors.
DREF celebrates HBCU Awareness Month by honoring the institutions that cultivate excellence, empower generations, and uplift Black communities. Support an HBCU today! #DST1913, #DREF, #HBCUAwarenessMonth, #HBCUPride, #BlackExcellence,#EmpowerBlackStudents ...

As fall arrives, DREF welcomes a season of reflection, renewal, and community. May this new season inspire us all to celebrate the strength, brilliance, and resilience of Black women—and continue building a future where every Black woman can thrive.#DST1913,#DREF, #BlackWomenLead, #FallIntoPurpose, #CommunityPower, #FallVibes ...

DREF recognizes World Alzheimer`s Day . The 2026 theme: "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters" emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing early symptoms, seeking timely medical intervention, and reducing the stigma attached to dementia.
DREF`s partnership with Alzheimer`s Association, last year, included three webinars to increase awareness about Alzheimer`s and Dementia and share updates on research and treatment. In addition includes the importance of participation in clinical trials, and provide resources for caregivers. Visit https://deltafoundation.net/alzheimersassociation/ to learn more. #DREF, #DST1913, #WorldAlzheimersDay #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #ClinicalTrials #AlzheimersAssociation ...

This Motivational Monday, DREF is pleased to announce our new Director of Charitable Engagement, Starlet Hunter, M.A., PMP.
Throughout her career, Starlet has worked at the intersection of philanthropy, business, and community, bringing a relationship-centered approach to identifying opportunities, cultivating alliances, and translating organizational priorities into meaningful community outcomes. Her extensive background spans grantmaking, fundraising, corporate philanthropy, stakeholder engagement, workforce development, government relations, donor engagement, and strategic leadership.
Starlet holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Urban Leadership. Notably, she is a graduate of Leadership Maryland’s Class of 2024, and holds professional certifications in Corporate Social Responsibility, Event Management, and Project Management. Dedicated to service, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Federal City Alumnae Chapter, and serves as Vice Chair of the Prince George’s County Advisory Board for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington. Visit www.deltafoundation.net for full bio. #DST1913, #DREF, AfricanAmericanWomenLeaders, #CommunityEngagement, #StrategicLeadership, #NonprofitLeadership ...