|
Programs & Past Accomplishments
· SPIRITUAL RETREATS – Previous guest facilitators include: Ellen Burstyn (’94), Rev. Dr. Barbara King (’97), Earthlyn Manuel (’99), Patrice Gaines (’99, ’02, '06, & '08), and Jewel Diamond Taylor (’00, ’01, & ’08). In February, 1996, Akiele sponsored its first co-ed retreat, called “Soul 2 Soul.”
· CONFERENCES - One day conferences are held annually, and successfully bring together member of the artistic, medical, legal, and political communities, with men and women from all socioeconomic strata. The format is a series of workshops, a panel discussion, and a guest speaker. Topics have included “Parenting” with Susan L. Taylor, “Celebrating Life: hiv/aids and African American women,” (Winter, 1992), “The Power of Love: Learning the Lessons of Intimacy (1995 & 1996) with Atalla Shabazz, Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, Leroy Campbell, and Pat Prescott, and "Living Fearlessly" with KEM, Terrie Williams, and Ilyasah Shabazz.
· LECTURE SERIES WITH IYANLA VANZANT – In February, 1995, Akiele initiated and co-sponsored a year-long monthly lecture series with best-selling author Iyanla Vanzant which focused on putting the principles of “Acts of Faith” into practice. Akiele continued support through 1997.
· ANNUAL WESTCHESTER WOMEN’S UNITY DAY – First held in 1993, this annual day of empowerment regularly attracts 350 women from the tri-state area. Past speakers include Ruby Dee, Terrie Williams, Brenda Blackmon, Dr. Grace Cornish, and Stanice Anderson. The day culminates in a Rites-of-Passage ceremony.
· SPIRITUAL FASTS – Akiele has held seasonal, spiritual fasts since 1994. The goal is to give up negative thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in favor of positive ones for 7 – 10 days on the eve of each new season. Each fast has a theme, with a corresponding set of exercises and affirmations. The themes are as follows: Winter – purpose, Spring – talents, Summer – prosperity, and Fall – Letting Go. Both men and women participate.
· S.W.A.V. (“Sisters With a Vision”) – Started with a grant from a national foundation in January, 1995, this was an empowerment and support group for women with hiv/aids with children. The goal was to empower the women to live productive lives in spite of the disease, and pass the benefits on to their children. The program ended in 1997.
|
|
|
