Philanthropy

Sigma Kappa Foundation

The Sigma Kappa Foundation donates funds for Alzheimer’s disease research, as well as, giving educational and leadership grants and scholarships for collegian and alumnae members. Each year, the chapter donates funds raised at our various events to the Sigma Kappa Foundation. The Foundation divides the money between the various Sigma Kappa philanthropies listed below.

Alzheimer's Disease Research

In 1984, Sigma Kappa responded to an increasingly critical problem facing older Americans by adding an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease to its gerontology program. Through this Sigma Kappa Foundation program, Sigma Kappa has become one of the nation's leading contributors to Alzheimer's disease prevention, research, and treatment efforts. The Sigma Kappa Foundation has granted over $1 million in research and psychosocial grants to investigators and practitioners, who are on the front lines in the fight against this debilitating disease. Each fall, the members of Sigma Kappa participate in the Alzheimer's Association's annual Memory Walk held in New Orleans. The "Walk to End Alzheimer's" will be held on October 29, 2011 in Audubon Park.

Philanthropies on Campus

The Epsilon Beta Chapter of Sigma Kappa hosts as well as participates in several philanthropies on campus. Sigma Kappa hosts "King of Hearts," a male beauty pageant, in the fall and "Kick in the Grass," a kickball tournament in the spring. All proceeds are donated to the Sigma Kappa Foundation. In addition to our own events, Epsilon Beta participates in other fraternity, soroirty, and campus-wide philanthropy events.

Gerontology

In 1954, Sigma Kappa became the first sorority to recognize the need for continued comprehensive work on the study of aging and the needs of the elderly population. Collegiate and alumnae members, throughout the country, volunteer their time and talent in support of numerous projects to assist and benefit the elderly. The members of Epsilon Beta are partnered with Ville St. Marie, an assisted living facility located in Jefferson, Louisiana. We participate in various activities such as bingo, luaus, Breast Cancer walks, and many other fun activities.

Maine Sea Coast Mission

In honor of Sigma Kappa's five founders from Maine, the 1918 convention chose the Maine Sea Coast Mission as the Sorority's first national philanthropy. The Maine Sea Coast Mission provides spiritual, health, and youth development programs in coastal and island communities from mid-coast to Downeast Maine. Rooted in a history of non-denominational service, the Mission offers hope, encouragement, and help to strengthen individuals, families and communities. The Epsilon Beta Chapter of Sigma Kappa will be holding a month long gift card drive during October 2011 to donate to the Maine Sea Coast Mission.