Charity central tenet of Greek organizations

One of the major ways Greek organizations are able to connect to our surrounding community is through philanthropic programs. During spring break, many UR fraternities found themselves in the giving mood. While every group champions their own cause, the contributions of each are equally commendable. On Feb. 28, Psi Upsilon turned in over $400 in change that it raised on campus for nationally renowned Golisano Children’s Hospital – an extension of Strong Memorial. “The Change Bandits” is an annual fundraiser co-sponsored by local radio station Mix 100.5 FM. This year’s contributions totaled over $165,000.Sigma Chi sponsored a fundraiser at their chapter house on Feb. 12. Brothers and their advisor Brian Cool served an all-you-can-eat pasta dinner for $5 per person. The proceeds were raised for Anthony Salmon, a Wilson Magnet High School football player. Salmon suffered a broken neck and spinal cord injury during a game and is now a quadriplegic. ?? raised over $300 to help allay the costs of Salmon’s rehabilitation. Chi Phi was also busy doing some philanthropic programming. On Feb. 27, CF and Phi Sigma Sigma sorority cosponsored a Karaoke Night at the Drama House to raise money for Prevent Child Abuse New York. The event brought in over $150 for the charity, with an estimated 75 people in attendance for the evening. This event marks another generous offering by the residents in the Drama House, who often allow their living space on the Fraternity Quad to be used by other student groups for events such as these.Delta Upsilon was extremely successful in their biggest annual fundraiser. Their Homeless for the Homeless program – in which there is always at least one member braving the elements in front of Wilson Commons in a cardboard box – raised just over $1300. The proceeds – which surpassed their highest total ever – will go directly to Rochester’s Habitat for Humanity chapter. The aim of this column is to shed some light on the actions of the Greek community that might otherwise be overlooked. To have so many successful philanthropic events in less than a month’s time is not unusual by any means. We as a community are grateful to have an outlet in the Campus Times to promote such events. I urge all members of the Greek Community to continue contributing to these installments. Please contact me with any successful programs or upcoming events. Got a question about Greek life? Send it to greekscene@campustimes.org.