Philanthropy
At Alpha Chi Omega 's 1992 National Convention, delegates voted to adopt the Support of Victims of Domestic Violence as a national altruistic project.
The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation supports educational programs for victims of domestic violence as well as hands-on support at the local community level where personal involvement can make a difference. Grants go to various agencies across the nation providing services to victims as well as to provide development and implementation of educational programs for members. In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Founders Day, Alpha Chi Omega's are encouraged to participate in events in their communities during the month of October.
Iota Phi takes the fight for Domestic Violence very seriously. As women we understand how this epidemic affects women everywhere. In addition, it hits home because one of our own sisters was murdered by a man looking for his estranged wife in 1998. Our chapter was blessed for the little time we had with Liz Pernel. Her memory lives on not only in our chapter, but also at our University. A tree dedicated in Liz's memory stands outside of the Commons, one of the freshmen dorms on campus. Every year, we hold a candlelight vigil to honor Liz’s memory. In addition, Iota Phi holds its annual Frisbee Fest in memory of Liz. In 2011 we raised $28,500 at Frisbee Fest and presented the check to the Domestic Violence Services of Greater New Haven!
In addition to Iota Phi’s annual Frisbee Fest, we hold a Fashion Show every spring! This year, Iota Phi has been able to continue our relationship with a women’s shelter in Barbados, established by the Business and Professional Women’s Club (of Barbados) through the Albert Schweitzer Institute at Quinnipiac University. We began our relationship in spring 2010, after we donated the proceeds from our 4th Annual Spring Fashion Show to the Shelter. This year, on February 26th, 2011, Iota Phi held its 5th Annual Spring Fashion Show. Iota Phi again donated the proceeds to the women’s shelter in Barbados!
As a result of our donation, twelve members of our chapter were given the opportunity to go to Barbados and meet with the Business and Professional Women’s Club in Barbados, a non-partisan organization which established the shelter. They were able to meet with the Chargé d'Affaires and discuss the role and status of women in Barbados. In addition, our sisters were able to spend time with the families that were residing in the Shelter during the time of our visit, as well as spend time decorating a playroom for the children residing in the shelter, and updating the shelter by painting! This truly was an amazing experience and opportunity for Iota Phi to be able to provide our services to victims of domestic violence on an international level!
In addition to raising awareness through Frisbee Fest and the Spring Fashion Show, Iota Phi also partakes in many community service events, and hold fundraisers to raise awareness for other causes as well. Our sisters can always be seen on campus, supporting other Greek organizations’ fundraising and philanthropic efforts. Our sisters can also be found at non-Greek sponsored fundraising and philanthropic events, also. You can always find Alpha Chi’s at the Big Event, Relay for Life, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, and other on-campus events!
We hope we have given you an idea of how important community service, fundraising, and philanthropic events are to us. These events and causes truly strengthen the bond that we have, all while giving back to our community!
