By Susie Oliver
Contributing Writer
On March 4, Kappa Delta Eta Epsilon hosted the “Amazing Race” fundraiser to support Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA), a philanthropy the sorority has supported since 1983. Kappa Delta values the organization because of its commitment to fostering healthy childhood development. Each Kappa Delta chapter annually hosts a Shamrock event to raise money for their local and national PCAA. This year, with the support of other Greek Life organizations and students, Sewanee’s Kappa Delta chapter created a fun-filled and exciting event to support the philanthropy.
“We, the sisters of Kappa Delta, are incredibly fortunate to have loving families and friends who have supported us throughout our lives and truly believe in promoting confidence to bring out the best in those around us. The issue of Child Abuse is one close to our hearts because it is difficult for a child to become self-confident in a situation where he or she cannot find comfort, even at home,” shared Community Service Chair Emily Donkervoet (C’18).
Previously, Kappa Delta hosted Shamrock Pancakes dinners. Donkervoet changed the fundraiser this year, crafting an Amazing Race-themed event instead. Kappa Omega and Delta Kappa Epsilon allowed Kappa Delta to use their lawns for various obstacles. Other locations for the event included the playground, Spencer Quad, and the bookstore, and participants had to run over a mile to complete all activities. Swimmers, football players, members of greek organizations, rugby players, and many others competed.
The Amazing Race began in the Quad, where teams solved Sewanee trivia to advance to the next location and challenge. Each location contained a series of tasks and required teams to work together. The tasks included completing an obstacle course blindfolded, finger-painting Pictionary, searching for Shamrocks in a pool, and shaving a balloon, just to name a few. The variety in challenges allowed each player to find a fun activity.
“I loved having a little bit of Sewanee trivia at every location, making us really work together as a team,” said Connor Trahan (C’19). Trahan and a few other rugby players were on the winning team, completing the course in 19 minutes. By being the first to complete the six various tasks, the team of three won a giftcard to Mountain Goat, a Fiesta Grill dinner, and a “swag bag.”
The Amazing Race raised nearly $1,000 for PCAA and Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee. This money will help support struggling families, and children who need a helping hand.
“I hope this event becomes an annual thing because it was a lot of fun,” said Will Sutton (C’19).