June 2000 Issue

With summer planning meetings now underway, many regions are already mapping out Honors Study Projects as well as Regional Service Projects for the coming school year. To make this as easy and as effective as possible, regions are encouraged to consider the International Honors Study Topic and International Service Program as the framework from which to build successful programs. There are a variety of reasons why this approach is valuable.

• Establishes the region as a role model, leader and resource for its chapters
• Increases regional and chapter awareness of International programs
• Assists chapters in reaching their Five-Star Chapter Development goals
• Allows chapters an opportunity to participate in programs which can be part of a comprehensive hallmark program
• Emphasizes the programs and goals of the Society

Submerge Your Region in ‘Water’
This year’s Honors Study Topic, “In the Midst of Water: Origin and Destiny of Life,” lends itself easily to a region-wide undertaking because each region has water issues unique to their geography. The Nevada/California Region, for example, is kicking off a comprehensive study of the Honors Study Topic with a bicycle trip down the California coast. For more ideas for implementation of the Honors Study Topic, refer to the 2000-2001 Honors Study Topic Guide.

Make America’s Promise Your Region’s Promise!
As a regional officer team, consider making one of your goals 100 percent chapter participation in the America’s Promise Service Program. For Phi Theta Kappa’s 2000-2002 International Service Program, America’s Promise—The Alliance for Youth, participating chapters are asked to formally register as a “Chapter of Promise” (read Keeping America's Promise for more information.) Regions achieving 100 percent participation by September 22, 2000, will receive special recognition in both Phi Theta Kappa and America’s Promise publications and web resources.

By sponsoring a Regional Service Project focused on America’s Promise, you’ll be making it much easier for chapters to get involved. This Service Program also allows a great deal of flexibility because chapters and regions may choose to focus on one -- or more -- of five Promise Areas: 1) mentoring; 2) providing a safe place for children to be after school; 3) promoting quality health education; 4) preparing youth for the workforce through marketable skills training; and 5) encouraging youth to give back through community service.

Don’t Reinvent the Wheel!
Your region may be able to build on projects initiated during the America Reads Service Program. Partnering organizations that provide a ready-made opportunity for regions and chapters can be found on the America’s Promise web site. Simply log on and enter a zip code(s) to find organizations in your area!

And remember, keep Headquarters updated on your plans and successes … we would love to show off your region in upcoming Journey newsletters!