It is not uncommon to walk to class and overhear someone talking negatively about a sorority or fraternity. It is also not uncommon to hear someone promoting an upcoming Greek event, whether it is a social event or fundraiser.

It is no secret that Greek life and the decision to join a sorority or a fraternity polarizes our campus. With the onset of spring, though, it becomes easier to see some of the more positive characteristics of the University of Wisconsin Greeks.

So, at the risk of rolled eyes and worse, this is not an article about Greek date rape, binge-drinking or hazing, but instead one about the good that our Greeks do for the local community as well as the nation through various philanthropic events.

It is a myth that sororities and fraternities only participate in philanthropic events to please their national advisory boards. Perhaps this is true for other chapters at other universities, but the evidence shows that the Greeks here at UW are dedicated and hardworking when it comes to thinking of creative and fun ways to raise money for important charities. Our usual cold climate prohibits many philanthropic events during the majority of the school year, but as we move into the month of April, students can be assured they will see a much more active Greek community.

For the purpose of this article, let’s focus primarily on sorority involvement in charity events. Not only does every sorority organize and plan its own house’s philanthropic event, but members are encouraged to attend those organized by other chapters. The funds raised by the various houses go to either local charities or national foundations. Pi Beta Phi and Kappa Kappa Gamma, for example, team up every April and hold “Hoops for Hope.” All the money that is raised goes directly to the UW Hospital for Children’s Cancer Research. Last year these women raised more than $3,000.

The majority of the other sororities on campus donate their money to national foundations, which, in turn, distribute the money nationwide to those in need of help. Alpha Phi holds its annual Kiss-Off every spring. This coming April 9, Library Mall will be filled with students and community members kissing scooters, in hopes of being the last one puckering and win a free scooter. All the money that is raised through raffle tickets is donated to Cardiac Care. Last year the women of Alpha Phi raised more than $2,000 for their charity.

Gamma Phi Beta organizes “Hugs/Slaps and Kisses,” where students can buy one of the three and have a Gamma Phi Beta deliver it to a friend or foe. This year the chapter donated more than $1,000 to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Delta Gamma’s spring philanthropy is “Anchor Splash,” which is basically a fun, playful swim meet. This year DG raised $2,400 for Service for Sight, an organization that helps those who are visually impaired.

There is no doubt that, like any other campus group, the Greek community has problems. Nobody claims that we have the best Greek community, or even the most philanthropic. It is important, though, to recognize the good that the Greek community does for important organizations that depend on contributions to continue their good work. Opinions may not change as to whether people believe it is right or wrong to join a sorority or a fraternity, but at least everyone should recognize it’s not all about partying. Greeks really do give back.

Emily Friedman ([email protected]) is a sophomore intending to major in journalism. She is a member of Alpha Phi.