Diverse Educational Life Training Activities, Incorporated (DELTA, Inc.) recently hosted its annual Grandparents Day Luncheon and Seminar at the Bob Harrison Wellness Center, bringing seniors and community members together for an informative program focused on an increasingly important issue: protecting older adults from scams and identity theft.

As part of DELTA, Inc.’s Savvy Seniors initiative, the program provided practical information to help seniors recognize common scams, protect their personal and financial information, and know what steps to take if they believe they have been targeted.

Recognizing Today’s Most Common Scams-

Guest speaker Investigator Christopher Edwards of the Huntsville Police Department shared valuable information about scams currently affecting seniors and the broader community.

Participants were reminded that scammers may pose as trusted organizations or individuals, including banks, police departments, utility companies, cable providers, government agencies, and even family members.

Common scams discussed included:

• Fraudulent text messages involving toll payments, USPS packages, Medicaid, Medicare, or the IRS

• Fake websites designed to steal personal or financial information

• Calls claiming that a family member, such as a grandchild, is in jail and needs money

• Requests to purchase gift cards to resolve an alleged debt, fee, or emergency

• Scammers impersonating banks or other trusted organizations

• Dating and romance scams

• Identity theft and fraudulent account activity

• Scammers using technology to duplicate or imitate a person’s voice

One important reminder was that a legitimate bank will not call and ask customers to provide sensitive personal information, usernames, or passwords. When in doubt, individuals should contact their bank directly using the phone number on the back of their debit or credit card.

Protecting Your Financial Information-

Mrs. Shakira Ellis, Vice President of SouthState Bank, also addressed the group and provided helpful information about recognizing potential signs of financial fraud.

Participants were encouraged to regularly review their bank transactions and credit reports and to be cautious about unexpected communications concerning credit approvals, past-due accounts, prizes, or financial transactions.

Additional recommendations included:

• Never provide your username or password to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.

• Be cautious about saving credit card information on websites.

• Establish a relationship with your bank so you know how legitimate communications are handled.

• Consider placing a freeze on your credit when appropriate.

• Regularly review your bank and credit card transactions.

• Check your credit report regularly and verify that the information and addresses listed are correct.

• Be especially mindful when family members share your name or have access to your financial accounts.

• Be cautious when using contactless payment methods and tapping credit or debit cards.

If you believe you have been a victim of identity theft or financial fraud, participants were encouraged to contact their bank immediately, file a police report when appropriate, and review their credit reports.

Staying Connected and Staying Safe-

Commissioner Violet Edwards greeted participants and recognized the important role grandparents play in families and in the community.

The luncheon and seminar served as an important reminder that staying informed is one of the best ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Scammers continue to develop new tactics and use technology in increasingly sophisticated ways. Taking a moment to stop, verify, and ask questions can help prevent significant financial and emotional harm.

Through Savvy Seniors, DELTA, Inc. remains committed to providing seniors and their families with information and resources that promote safety, independence, and well-being.

DELTA, Inc. extends its sincere appreciation to the Bob Harrison Wellness Center, Investigator Christopher Edwards, Mrs. Shakira Ellis, Commissioner Violet Edwards, and all of the seniors and community members who participated in this year’s program.

Together, we can help protect our seniors, strengthen our community, and stay one step ahead of scammers.

Board Members and supporters of Diverse Education Life Training Activities Inc. recently partnered with the Huntsville Learning Center to support its Summer Camp Snack Drive.

Starting June 1, 92 students, ranging from Kindergarten through high school, will participate in the six-week Huntsville Learning Center Summer Camp program. Throughout the summer, students will benefit from an environment designed to encourage learning, growth, and personal development.

Through the generosity of donors, supporters, and volunteers, campers will also receive daily snacks and meals to help keep them energized and focused.

We sincerely thank our supporters and community partners for helping invest in the success and well-being of local students. Together, we continue making a meaningful impact in our community.

In the heart of North Alabama, stories of triumph and achievement are woven together by initiatives like the DELTA, Inc. Book Stipend. Each year, DELTA, Inc. provides book stipends to four year high school scholars.  Sydney and Xavier stand as shining examples of the transformative impact that this program has on the lives of students within the community.

Sydney, a driven and determined individual, recently celebrated the culmination of her academic journey by earning her master’s degree. As a recipient of the DELTA, Inc. Book Stipend, Sydney's path to success was illuminated by the support and resources provided through this invaluable initiative.

Similarly, Xavier, another DELTA, Inc. Book Stipend recipient, has reached a significant milestone in his educational journey. With his degree from Tennessee State University in hand, Xavier now sets his sights on a future in medical school.

However, Sydney and Xavier are not alone in their achievements. Across North Alabama, hundreds of high school students are benefitting from the support extended through initiatives like the DELTA, Inc. Book Stipend and other enrichment programs. Your generosity and commitment are directly contributing to the success stories that unfold within our community.

By investing in programs that prioritize education and empowerment, supporters like you are paving the way for a brighter future for the next generation. Through your contributions, you are not only providing financial assistance but also instilling hope and confidence in the hearts of young minds across North Alabama.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of Sydney, Xavier, and countless others, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence and opportunity. Together, we have the power to shape the trajectory of lives, uplift communities, and build a stronger, more vibrant North Alabama for generations to come. Your support truly makes a difference – thank you for being a catalyst for change.