Phi Theta Kappa's Contributions for Cancer Society Top $2.3 Million
In six years, Phi Theta Kappa chapters have raised $2,342,267.80 to fight
cancer, and Phi Theta Kappa has become the leading nationwide organization
raising money for Relay For Life, the signature fundraising arm of the American
Cancer Society.
Chapters have set a goal of raising
$10 million for the American Cancer Society by 2018, as part of
Phi Theta Kappa's 100th anniversary celebration.
In 2007,
Phi Theta Kappa chapters raised $357,319.96 for the American Cancer Society,
through Relay For Life participation and other fundraising events. The
new total of $2.3 million-plus was announced at the recent International
Convention in Philadelphia. International Officers Connie Myers and
Deeneaus Polk presented a facsimile check to Reuel Johnson, National Vice
President of Relay For Life.
The total includes chapter Relay
For Life contributions of $2,341,205.80, and $1,062 raised through sales
of Relay
For Life t-shirts by Phi Theta Kappa's Recognition Services Department.
A portion of all Relay For Life t-shirt sales is donated to the American Cancer
Society.
"Phi Theta Kappa is the leading nationwide organization
in raising money for Relay For Life," said Johnson. "Thank you, individuals,
chapters and organizations, for your commitment, your dedication, your
spirit and your leadership to empower others on your campus and in your community
to make a difference."
"You are part of a global movement," Johnson
said, pointing out that "20 countries and 5,500 communities are working
together to not only imagine - but to create - a cancer-free world."
"Relay
For Life takes skills, determination and passionate leadership," he said.
"It's a special time, fun and unique - a time to celebrate and fight back."
Johnson called the Phi Theta Kappa chapter at Ozarks Technical
Community College in Springfield, Missouri, a "shining example." In their
seventh Relay, the Phi Theta Kappa team was the top fundraiser among chapters,
netting over $8,300 to fight cancer.
Johnson also commended
the seven chapters that were responsible for developing new Relay teams
- on campuses at Jefferson State Community College in Alabama; Georgia
Highlands College; San Diego Community College in California; Suffolk
County Community College in New York; University of Houston-Clear Lake
Campus in Texas; Paris Junior College in Texas; and Tallahassee Community
College in Florida.
"You are an incredible group and you are
making a huge difference," Johnson said. "Know that your work is appreciated,
and how much we value the partnership with your organization."
"Imagine
a world where you never have to hear 'you have cancer,'" Johnson concluded.
Since Phi Theta Kappa and the American Cancer Society became
partners in the 2002-2006 International Service Program, chapters have
logged more than 548,000 hours in the fight against cancer. Phi Theta Kappa
has twice been named the top collegiate contributor to Relay For Life.
"Tonight
we celebrate your hard work in raising money and awareness for cancer research
and support," said 2007-2008 International Vice President - Division
III Mahmedein Mahmedein, who introduced Johnson. "Remember, there is
no finish line until we find a cure."
Learn
more about establishing a Relay For Life on your campus or in your
community or participating in a Relay For Life event. Report your Relay
For Life participation.
