MONTEVALLO, Ala. – The Tau Kappa chapter of Chi Omega hosted their annual fall philanthropy event on Nov. 9 to raise money for Make-A-Wish, a charitable organization that grants wishes for children with life threatening illnesses.
This year, the event was a Turkey Trot fun run. Harper Mellon, Tau Kappa’s Community Service Director, organized the event with the help of her committee.
“It was very rewarding getting to do that, because so much hard work was put into it.” said Mellon. “It was nice to know that the chapter cared, because they fundraised and helped with all that, so it’s just very rewarding to see it all come together. It’s just a nice way to go out as Community Service chair.”
Between registration fees and donations, the chapter raised over $10,400, which is enough to sponsor a wish for a child.
The Turkey Trot was held at the Student Activity Center. Registration began at 7 a.m. and the race began at 8 a.m. However, the members of the chapter were there as early as 5 a.m. to set up and prepare.
We always do our best to raise as much money as we can, because it’s all for the children
Katherine Brown, Chi Omega member
Chapter member Katherine Brown said that while the early start time was rough, seeing the event come together was worth it.
“I really enjoyed it. I still thought it was a really creative idea; it was something different,” said Brown. “I think everybody that came really enjoyed it. I just had a lot of fun setting it up and taking pictures with all my sorority sisters.”
Participation wasn’t limited to members of Greek life. Parents, professors and members of the Montevallo community joined.
“A lot of girls did a good job getting their family members to come, or just people they know like their neighbors or friends. We had also a lot of people from other Greek life organizations participate which was very helpful, so we just had a good turnout,” said Brown.
The partnership between Chi Omega and Make-A-Wish was established in 2002. Since then, sisters have granted over 3,000 wishes.
“We always do our best to raise as much money as we can, because it’s all for the children,” said Brown.
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