How You Can Give
Council Connections – October 2016
By National Vice President Emma Bunnell Rice, Phi
“A sorority is more than letters on a sweatshirt. It is more than traditional songs, a gold pin, rituals, an obligation, or a way of life. A sorority is learning about people and giving without expecting a return.”
During recruitment, potential new members often think of all the amazing things Alpha Sigma Tau offers: new friends, campus involvement, and a network of Sisters around the country for the rest of their lives, among other things. Then, after Initiation and experiencing the countless blessings the Sorority gives you, you start to see how you can give back too.
Of course, this does not just mean financial contributions, but also giving back with your time and talents. After all, where would our Sorority be without women serving on Chapter Advisory Boards, on committees, as volunteer writers for The Anchor, or simply making a connection with Sisters in their communities? We would certainly be offering a very different member experience than what our women rave about in their communities and campuses.
This November 4, throughout our Founders Day, we all have a unique opportunity to give back to Alpha Sigma Tau as part of one common effort – our inaugural Founder’s Day of Giving campaign. During this 24-hour event, we ask our members and friends around the country to come together and define excellence with a charitable contribution to the Alpha Sigma Tau National Foundation.
In addition to making a financial gift, Sisters can also serve as a Founders Day of Giving Ambassador, helping us spread positive news about the day to Sisters they have a personal connection with. They help spread the word via social media, and challenge their Sisters and friends to make a gift as well. Ambassadors are an integral part of our giving day, and may be collegians, alumnae, or friends of our Sorority. All these contributions will help make this campaign our most successful one yet!
These combined efforts will provide financial support for many of the Sorority’s educational and leadership programs including Illuminate, Not Anymore, GreekLifeEdu, Chapter Advisory Board Talent Development, and more. These programs are designed for and delivered directly to members, investing in and empowering them to excel in life. Additionally, through its scholarship program, the Foundation proudly offers more than $40,000 annually in academic scholarships to members and their families.
Thanks to the women who donated their time, talents, and, yes, financial gifts, I have had an incredible membership experience. I will continue to support Alpha Sigma Tau in any way possible to ensure all members are given the support they need to continue defining excellence. I invite each of you to do the same.