Diane Martin, PhD, MSL, MA
Sigma Phi Omega Immediate Past-President
AGEISM AWARENESS WEEK CHALLENGE: LET’S TAKE ACTION!
In honor of Ageism Awareness Week, Sigma Phi Omega is excited to announce a special “Ageism Awareness and Action” Challenge for all our Sigma Phi Omega chapters. This challenge is an opportunity for each of us to raise awareness about ageism and take meaningful steps toward promoting a more inclusive society.
In recognition of National Ageism Awareness Day 2024— Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the executive board of Sigma Phi Omega challenges every chapter to create and implement an initiative that addresses ageism in their communities. The goal is to educate, advocate, and engage others in the fight against ageism. is Here are some ways your chapter can get involved:
- Host a Workshop or Webinar on ageism, featuring discussions about its impact and solutions.
- Launch a Social Media Campaign using the hashtag #EndAgeism, where you can share facts, stories, and calls to action.
- Facilitate Intergenerational Conversations that bring together younger and older generations to discuss shared experiences and combat stereotypes.
- Advocate for Age-Inclusive Policies by writing to local government officials or institutions.
- Partner with Local Organizations to work on a project that promotes inclusivity for older adults.
What’s in it for Your Chapter?
A chance to win a $200 prize for your chapter. Each chapter is encouraged to share their activities, successes, and challenges by video or in writing and with pictures and enter to win of either the Video award or Service Project award. For more information about these awards, visit the Sigma Phi Omega awards page on our website: https://sigmaphiomega.org/awards/
The entry portal will open in November. The deadline to submit entries for these awards will be February 2025. Winners will be announced at the annual Sigma Phi Omega Business & Awards meeting in April. More information will be provided once the portal opens for entries.
We encourage you to be creative and bold in your approach! This is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in your local community and help reshape the conversation around aging.
How to Get Started:
- Plan your activities for Ageism Awareness Week using the ideas above or others you feel passionate about.
- Engage your chapter members and encourage them to actively participate.
- Document your initiative by video, words, and pictures
- Have your initiative posted on our social media sites! Send videos and pictures to us at spogerontologymembership@gmail.com
- Prepare and submit your entry to our awards portal for a chance to win $200 for your chapter.
Together, we can lead the way in challenging ageism and creating a society that respects and values people of all ages. We look forward to seeing the incredible work each of you will do!