Page 15 - ESA IC News April

IC Philanthropic Chair
Brenda Meyers, Ohio
brendasmeyers@gmail.com
brendameyers@woh.rr.com

This month’s philanthropic spot light is on Alpha Beta of Illinois State University. Their
event should “Inspire” us to Take the Plunge for ESA! Thank you Bailey, Brooke and
Sarah for sharing!

The Alpha Beta chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) at Illinois State University was recognized by Special
Olympics Illinois for their participation in the 2018 Polar Plunge. They were awarded three distinctions for
Largest Team, Largest Greek Team, and Most Money Raised. Special Olympics is an organization
dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and providing them with opportunities to
participate in athletic competitions. A representative at Special Olympics commented on their
accomplishment saying, “Your support of our athletes and families in Central Illinois is incredible! You
should be proud!”

Two years ago, ESA registered for the Polar Plunge with five members and raised a
total of $875. (pictured here).

This year participation soared. On February 24, 2018, 160 members of Epsilon Sigma
Alpha plunged into 35-degree water at Miller Park Lake. Team members raised
$19,003 to support the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois (see photo below). Drew,
a Special Olympics Illinois Athlete and Global Messenger, visited the sorority at
chapter in the weeks leading up to the plunge. His heart felt message provided the women of ESA the
inspiration to fundraise online, stand outside collecting donations in the rain and snow, and most
importantly jump into freezing cold water the day of the plunge.

The Alpha Beta chapter believes in “Sisterhood Through Service.” The team captain, Sarah Wazny, said “I
honestly cannot explain how grateful I am to have such a large group of sisters to share my passion with.”
Over three short years, the sisters came together to transform Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s impact on the event
and most importantly the lives of Special Olympics Illinois athletes. Their donations accounted for 17% of
the event’s total earnings.

Check out the 2018 You Tube video at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRLAoMfq3iQ&feature=youtu.be

Remember to send me ONLY the state Awards form (page 52), do not include individual chapter forms.
Questions? Contact me brendameyers@woh.rr.com or brendasmeyers@gmail.com

15