Sigma Iota Omega Gents Program Overview
Young men who participate in the Omega Gents Program benefit by experiencing personal development essential to their long-term success. They develop academically, socially and emotionally. They grow through various support services and exposure to new positive experiences that reinforce critical life skills. Omega Gents also develop a sense of community by participating in a wide range of service projects. They build confidence necessary to visualize, believe and pursue their dreams. Finally, the Omega Gents complete the program with a network of friends to provide continued support.
Educational Workshops and Academic Performance Monitoring
Educational workshops are conducted once a month on Saturdays. They follow a structured format involving a topical presentation, an open discussion, followed by group exercises to ensure understanding of the lesson.
Topics covered during educational workshops included but are not limited to:
- Self-Identity & Self Esteem
- Self-Assessment
- Goal Setting & Planning
- Financial Literacy
- Communications Skills Development
- Career Identification and Development (resume writing, interview skills, dressing for success)
- Developing Positive Relationships
- Etiquette & Respecting Women
- Health & Well-being
- Proper use of social media and AI
- Academic Achievement & College Preparedness
Scholarship is a Cardinal Principle of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Therefore, the program will expect the full engagement and commitment of each Omega Gent and their parents and/or guardians in the pursuit of academic excellence throughout the school year. Each Omega Gent’s academic standing is recorded during the application process and on-going academic and classroom performance is monitored throughout the school year. This includes, but is not limited to, regular and mandatory submission of academic transcripts, progress reports, and academic work plans. Referrals for tutorial services, for example, Khan Academy, etc. will be explored as needed.
College Campus Tours. Omega Gents are introduced to college life at local Bay Area and regional colleges and universities. Campus visits may include meeting with admissions officials, counselors, and students active in organizations such as the Black Student Union. A student led tour of the campus, lecture halls and sports facilities may also be included. The Omega Gents will have an opportunity to visit schools within the college and ask questions about possible areas of interests.
Career Days / Job Banks. The Omega Gents Leadership Team works with work with local executives to periodically schedule career days/visits to Bay Area companies. In addition, some workshops of the Omega Gents Program include resume writing skills, interview and presentation skills development, pre- and post-interview communications planning, and dress to success tips and recommendations.
Community Service. Community service is a cornerstone of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. It is reflected in our Cardinal Principle of Uplift. The Omega Gents program will attempt to instill this value in the young men we mentor and teach in the program through experiences that they can make a difference in their communities. Examples of community service project include: Food collection for the Alameda County Food Bank, Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway and supporting local churches toy giveaways.
Social Outings. Social and recreational outings include but are not limited to events such as bowling, movie nights, college and professional sporting events, an overnight camping trip, and the annual Purple & Gold Scholarship Ball typically held in June.
Group Mentoring. It is important to have regular engagement between the Omega Gents and the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Group mentoring will engage the young men in developing meaningful and positive relationships via the monthly educational workshops and social outings. Positive communication and development via group mentoring will be emphasized.