Helping needy children
Theta Chi holds '12 Days Project' on commons
by Alison Fargo / contributing writer
To collect toys and money for the underprivileged children of
Harrisonburg, Theta Chi is holding the "12 Days Project"
from Nov. 27 to Dec. 9 on the commons.
For 12 days, Theta Chi is hosting the collection of new toys and
cash donations for the local Salvation Army.
Senior Rommie Misleh said, "We want to show people that helping
others is a big part of being in a fraternity. And also, we are
having a great time doing it."
Last year was the first year this project took place, and the brothers
set a goal of gathering 1,000 toys and $1,000. This year, the goal
is doubled to 2,000 toys and $2,000 because of last winter's
success. So far they have raised $1,200 and gathered around 200
toys, according to senior Andy Cotrell, a Theta Chi member.
"Last year we seemed to collect more toys, but we are way ahead
of where we were last year at this time with money," said junior
Ben Baker, a Theta Chi member.
To increase the amount of goods drawn in, four sororities and the
Madison Marketing Association are helping out with the project,
according to Cottrell.
Theta Chi has arranged a competition between Alpha Phi, Delta Gamma,
Sigma Kappa, Delta Delta Delta and the Madison Marketing Association.
Cotrell said the group that collects the most money and toys will
receive a pizza party.
Theta Chi also is receiving help from local businesses such as Buffalo
Wild Wings, the University Outpost, Verizon and Pamela's Secret.
Each day, a new company is on the commons with Theta Chi giving
away free gifts to people who donate a certain amount of goods.
Misleh said that Hair Cuttery gave a free haircut to anyone who
donated $6.
"We love doing stuff like this, coming out and raising money
for the kids," said Elaine Forté, Hair Cuttery assistant
salon leader.
Every day, at least two fraternity members are on the commons collecting
donations. Each member is required 15 hours of outside time, Misleh
said.
"Many times you'll see more brothers out here, just because
we're having a fun time," said senior Andy Cottrell, Theta
Chi member. "Some of us have already been out here for about
40 hours."
According to Misleh, two members also spend the night in the trailer
parked behind their table set up on the commons.
"We want people to know that they can come at any time to make
a donation," Misleh said.
Theta Chi accepts toys, cash, Flex and the cash equivalent of a
meal punch and will be on the commons until early Sunday morning.
|
