Posted on March 31, 2008
Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity is eager to kick off its first philanthropy event with all proceeds going to Big Brothers/Big Sisters. The fundraiser starts Monday on the commons and continues throughout the week at a number of contributing vendors around Harrisonburg.
Although BBBS is not PIKE’s national philanthropy, the fraternity sought to target an organization visible in the community where its endeavors would not only benefit a worthy cause, but serve as an enjoyable and purposeful opportunity for all who participate.
“We obviously consider any philanthropic efforts beneficial, but when you can see the results in your own community, it makes it even more rewarding,” said Christopher Gesualdi, PIKE president. “We are really just looking to raise as much as possible for BBBS. The name or social recognition that comes along with that is secondary for us.”
After taking on the position as PIKE’s president, Gesualdi, along with other members of the fraternity, was dedicated to creating a new philanthropy with a meaningful purpose.
Before this semester, Gesualdi set up a multiple committee system within his chapter where certain members would focus on certain objectives, including a philanthropy/fundraising committee, headed by Jon Noel and Andrew Walsworth.
The committee spent the majority of the semester brainstorming an all-encompassing philanthropy week involving percentage nights at Bruster’s and Bourbon Street, sporting tournaments and a number of other activities that will raise money for Harrisonburg’s local BBBS.
One specific activity called “Cansom Ransom,” held on 5 p.m. Thursday, will involve Pike “kidnapping” a volunteer member from each Greek chapter. In order to “free” the member, their respectful chapters must donate a specified number of canned goods, toys or a monetary contribution.
Pike has also been working with two students, Wayne Moore and Colleen Hooker, who chose to help promote the event for their senior capstone class and final project for Organizational Communication. Moore and Hooker are both currently involved in BBBS and thought their assistance would be a great way to help out Pike and serve a cause they both found important.
“We hope that this event will help spread the word about Pike and about BBBS and how important and great it is to donate time toward a great cause,” Hooker said. “We hope that people are as excited as we are and will enjoy the week!”
BBBS is also looking forward to the event and is grateful for Pike and the promotional group in their efforts to benefit itsorganization. With a small staff and tight budget, BBBS experiences hardships in finding time and support to organize fundraising events.
“Having a group come in gives us the recognition without the demand,” said Aaron Nussbaum, Fund Development Associate for BBBS. “Any time that people want to hold a benefit for us is great and much appreciated.”
