Delta GEMS (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully) is a community program designed to serve teenage girls ages 14–18. It was created as a natural extension of the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy, continuing its mission by offering ongoing educational support, professional development, and cultural enrichment throughout high school.
The core mission of Delta GEMS is to create a nurturing environment where young women can reach their fullest potential and equip them with the tools to thrive intellectually, socially, and emotionally. This is accomplished through developing connections with like-minded peers, forming lasting mentoring relationships, and gaining the skills needed to rise above common challenges. Participants are involved in a variety of developmental programs and activities that promote personal growth, community service, college readiness, career exploration, and economic empowerment. The program also features a unique community service model geared towards developing a heart for service in participants, and formative opportunities for leadership roles within the program. Delta GEMS prepares its participants to face the future with confidence and purpose.
The 2025-2026 program will take place from October 2025-May 2026. Participants must be available for monthly in-person workshops on Wednesday evenings, with further details provided after application submission.
Please submit your application, or request additional program information, no later than October 17th to deltagems@durhamdst.org.
For more information or to express interest in Delta GEMS, email us at deltagems@durhamdst.org.
Delta GEMS Youth Application
Parent Guardian Risk Management Guidebook
