The philanthropy chairs of Greek life organizations said this month of fundraising is celebrated with trophies, cash rewards and bragging rights. Because members of Greek life are often stereotyped as party animals, it is important to recognize their exemplary accomplishments in giving back to the world, Landyn Luttrell, sophomore in business admin-preprofessional, said. To raise funds for their philanthropies, sororities and fraternities capture other students’ attention with fast-paced, competitive events held every year.
“When everyone comes together to serve something that means more to us, it gets our minds off ourselves and really elevates the comradery in the house,” Luttrell said.
Pike Fireman Challenge
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity reeled in over 400 community service hours during the week of their fourth annual Fireman Challenge, Sean Hoffmans, sophomore in finance and external vice president, said. Members raised $15,000 for their philanthropy, Finn’s Friends, for muscular dystrophy through competitions. To raise the stakes, a point system based on the girls’ performance in the contests determines which sorority wins, Hoffmans said. The prize is a sum of money to pour into their own philanthropy and a trophy.
“These events are really competitive,” Hoffmans said. “And girls can be ruthless to earn that first-place trophy and the guys love the entertainment.”
Hoffmans said their field day included an obstacle course, cup pong, tug of war and a basketball tournament with an admission price. Hoffmans said first place and more than $3,000 was awarded to Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. They will use this money for their philanthropy, which supports breast cancer research and awareness.
Delta Upsilon Hoopsilon
Kade Kaufman, junior in biology, said he oversaw the Delta Upsilon basketball tournament for the Global Service Initiative, where the fraternity had only 24 hours to raise as much money as possible. Kaufman said their philanthropy builds houses for underserved communities in Jamaica, and each summer members are sent over to assist in construction.
“The atmosphere is very lively,” Kaufman said. “With a live announcer and music and some of the K-State basketball players even showing up to support the girls.”
Kaufman said the group is looking forward to their trip to help families after raising around $5,000 between the tournament tickets and donation competitions.
