Cal Poly Greek Life Community Raises Nearly $500,000 in 2016

Contact: Joe Benson

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Funds were raised by the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, and United Sorority and Fraternity Council

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Cal Poly’s Greek organizations worked together in 2016 to raise nearly $500,000 for numerous nonprofit organizations.

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) organizations raised more than $200,000 for the Military Heroes Campaign, the V Foundation for Cancer Research, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and other local and national nonprofit agencies. Tau Kappa Epsilon donated $128,350 to their St. Jude philanthropy.

In addition, the Panhellenic Council (PHA) and United Sorority and Fraternity Council (USFC) each raised more than $100,000 for the Make-A-Wish foundation and the Arthritis Foundation, among other charities. Chi Omega, a Panhellenic chapter with a 10-year presence at Cal Poly, raised $45,000 in one night for Make-A-Wish through its “Chi O Casino” philanthropy event.

Alpha Omicron Pi raised $30,000 with its citywide Arthritis Walk. Proceeds went to Make-A-Wish, to benefit children with life-threatening illnesses, and the Arthritis Foundation.

“These results showcase the dedication and passion for service that Greek Life brings to the community,” said Interfraternity Council President Danny Halprin. “I am extremely impressed with our Greek members and chapters and hope to help lead the effort to continue progressing these outstanding contributions.”

All three Greek councils, which together comprise nearly 20 percent of Cal Poly’s student body, collectively volunteered more than 35,000 hours of community service last year. According to independentsector.org, the value of these volunteer hours equate to roughly $1 million.

The Greek students served as academic tutors; assistants at the Growing Grounds, a nonprofit wholesale nursery; and participated in cleanups in Avila Beach and Morro Bay. They also volunteered with chapter-specific charity events.

About Cal Poly Fraternity and Sorority Life Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals with similar interests bonded together by common goals and aspirations. Greek Life at Cal Poly includes 36 organizations with approximately 3,600 students. For more information, go to:

Photo info:

Chi-omega-web.jpg – Chi Omega Sorority at the Chi O Casino Event

Tau-kappa-epsilon-web.jpg – Tau Kappa Epsilon presents a check for #128,411 to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

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Jason Mockford, M.A.

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