Sigma Cares Overview

In 2014, Phi Beta Sigma created an initiative entitled Sigma Cares to support and reach out to the membership in more meaningful ways. The goal of this new initiative was to let brothers know that they have the support and love of “The Brotherhood”, in times of need and of celebration. Sigma Cares for its Own is designed to give spiritual support to brothers. Regardless of faith or religious background; whether you worship in a church, synagogue, masjid or otherwise, brothers can find a connection to the richest tradition of Phi Beta Sigma — one that binds all brothers together — “I am my brother’s keeper.”

“Sigma Cares for Its Own” provides information about brothers who needed the support and prayers in times of loss and illness, through monthly posts. In keeping with its intent, the program also shares “good news” about brothers—marriages, births, graduations, etc. through the Weekly Update and e-blasts. Brothers and their families in need find comfort through the outreach provided by the Sigma Cares network of brothers who take the belief of being their “Brothers’ Keeper” to the next level.

Protocol
At the International level, the Sigma Cares team (consisting of the Director of Sigma Cares and the International Chaplain, with direct support from the International Headquarters Communications Department) receives notices of illness and transitions from members of the Brotherhood primarily through email and phone calls. Information is usually shared directly from Brothers, chapter members, local associates or family members. When the Team receives the communication, one of them calls the member or their family to offer support and to gather information about how the Fraternity can be of assistance during this time. This support includes:

• Contacting a local resource who can be present with the member or their family and secure information about making contact during illness or for services of transition;
• Working with local members and/or chapters to conduct the Omega Chapter ceremony (with the permission of the family). When a member of the immediate family passes, Sigma Cares encourages local members to support the family by being present with the family when possible;
• Working with IHQ to secure an official letter of condolence from the Fraternity;
• Posting information about for the general membership regarding the illness of Brothers and/or the transition of Brothers or members of their immediate families.*/

As much as possible, local chapters as well as regional and state representatives should be involved in the care of their members and families. This would include being present with members and/or families, coordinating and conducting the Omega Chapter service, and development of proclamations and resolutions. Please note: Sigma Cares for Its Own does not prepare proclamations or resolutions.

*Immediate family members include: spouses and children, siblings, and parents. Sigma Cares arranges for letters of condolence to Brothers and those mentioned in this grouping.