Tri Delta fundraising exceeds expectations

Photo: @OWUtridelta on Twitter
Photo: @OWUtridelta on Twitter

One sorority raised more money for its philanthropy last academic year than all other Greek organizations on campus combined.

Delta Delta Delta sorority (Tri Delta) surpassed their goal for raising money for their philanthropy, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Last spring, Tri Delta raised over $25,000 in one semester, making them Ohio Wesleyan University’s leading Greek organization in terms of monetary contributions.

The sorority put on various fundraisers last year, the first being the organization’s  “Sincerely Yours” letter-writing campaign to encourage family and friends of the OWU community to donate to St. Jude’s.

“Each girl is required to do a certain number of [letters], but most girls go above and beyond and write a significant number more,” said Dara Markus, Tri Delta’s philanthropy chair. “That is the main way we raise that money.”

Tri Delta’s annual spring philanthropy event is Pasta for Life, an all-you-can-eat pasta dinner with a $5 admission charge, and raffle basket bidding.

“Pasta for life was a very successful event [last spring], I had a great time and I learned a lot about St. Jude, also that ice cream bar was amazing,” sophomore JT Knoble said.

St. Jude has been very grateful for Tri Delta’s contributions on a national level. In 2010, the sorority pledged as a national goal to raise 15 million dollars in five years; they accomplished their goal in 3.5 years.

“The women of Delta Delta Delta are to be congratulated for their fundraising accomplishments,” said Dana Behum, OWU’s Greek advisor. “Their ability to partner with local and national organizations in order to raise such an impressive amount showcases their organizational skills, enthusiasm for the cause and passion for improving the lives of others. As a Greek community, we are fortunate to have such focused and compassionate members serving local and national philanthropy efforts.”

Tri Delta has high hopes for the upcoming semester. They are partnering with Sigma Chi fraternity for their second ever Kicks for Kids philanthropy event.  The kickball tournament that will take place Oct. 5.

“We will head in a positive and aggressive manner this year so we can do as much for St. Judes as possible,” Markus said.