by Da’Jeal Willaby-Partee ’20
This semester, the Lambda Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta has used service as a tool to build relationships with different organizations on and off campus. Philanthropy has provided great public relations by allowing the campus to know that the gentlemen at FIJI stand for something. The platforms that were used to take this stand this semester were Eurovision and Don’t Dodge the Issues.
Eurovision was an event that took place in March of 2018 with a $2 entrance fee and accepted donations. The language department partnered with FIJI to bring a rendition of the popular international singing contest to campus. Eighteen participants competed by singing songs in their respective languages in front of a large audience. Refreshments were offered at intermission followed by a raffle drawing. There were over 140 people in attendance while more than $300 was raised for the Indiana Undocumented Youth Association. Not only was a great cause supported, but relationships between FIJI and the language department were fostered.
Don’t Dodge the Issues was an event that took place on April 7, 2018. Mental Health America in Putnam County partnered with FIJI to raise awareness on the topic of mental health. Don’t Dodge the Issues was a dodgeball tournament held in Lilly Gym on campus. Teams included various Greek organizations on campus along with local businesses in Putnam County. There were 20 teams in attendance, and approximately $2,000 was raised for mental health.