Zeta Zeta takes pride in our philanthropic and community service efforts as an embodiment of the core value of Service and Stewardship. As a part of the university community, the brotherhood is heavily involved in the Penn State Dance Marathon (THON) in support of the Four Diamonds Foundation. Each year, in partnership with the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, we have consistently been ranked amongst the top five for largest financial donations raised in result to our myriad of fundraisers implemented throughout the year. This year we raised $222,557.60 placing us as first runners up among Greek Associations and all other organizations; in the past four years we’ve donated over $1.2 million toward the cause.
Beyond our support for children with pediatric cancer, in the past few months we’ve donated an equivalent of 48,460 pounds of food and $4,830 to Feeding America in the fight against national hunger–a grossing number we expect to multiply by the end of the year. We also partake in other Greek organizations’ fundraising efforts, such as the Kappa Kappa Gamma Kookoff, grilled cheese fundraisers and various other philanthropic events. In the coming months, we will also be pairing with Gamma Phi Beta Sorority for their philanthropic event Gphi Joe, Zeta Tau Alpha’s Mr. Think Pink for breast cancer awareness, as well as Kappa Sigma Fraternity’s philanthropy color run.
The brotherhood furthers our support to other organizations beyond that of Greek Life; most recently we have formed a partnership with the Operation SMILE on campus, carrying the values and sense of stewardship above ourselves to serve others. We are frequent in community service as well:
- Participating in a community clean up and shoveling for those that need help in the winter months
- Hosting an Easter Egg Hunt for the children in the neighborhood
- Coaching youth sports teams
- Forming a book collection for underfunded schools.
Also in the upcoming months, we plan to host an annual Gala for the brotherhood and family members and effectively conduct a Watermelon Bash. Proceeds from both will go to Feeding America.
The brothers of Zeta Zeta know the proper order of priorities as members of Lambda Chi, having passion for helping others and strength to fight for our teachings within the larger environment and community.
By James Saccone