University of Miami sorority and fraternity members teamed up for the annual “Greek Week” to help raise more than $50,000 for the United Cerebral Palsy Center of South Florida (UCP).
The annual fundraising week brought together over 25 Greek chapters at UM for a fun-filled week of activities, giving the Greek community a chance to bond while also raising money and awareness for UCP.
“The dedication and passion the community shows during this week is a testament to our character as Greeks,” said Vikesh Patel, Student Government president and brother of Alpha Sigma Phi. “This is our week, as Greeks, to show how philanthropy and fun can unite to make a difference to a truly outstanding organization.”
Patel, along with junior Jelly Vanderwoude, were the Greek Week co-chairs and worked closely with Senior Associate Dean of Students, Steven Priepke, to put the events together. While this is a way for many chapters to meet their fellow Greek community members, it is also about giving back to the South Florida community.
“As advisors to the students we are committed to students’ education; education that would not be complete without the valuable lesson that philanthropy and service to the greater community is everyone’s responsibility,” Priepke said.
An opening ceremony kicked off the 2017 Greek Week themed “War of the Worlds” and featured an Olympic Day, where chapters competed in activities such as chariot races, God & Goddess competition, and an organized cheer.
Local restaurants including Chipotle and Shake Shack partnered with the event to raise money from orders placed. The $50,000 raised this year surpassed last year’s total by more than $15,000.
For more information on Greek Week, visit their website.
