Kansas Chapter Helps Town Destroyed by Tornadoes
Phi Theta Kappa members at Pratt Community College in Kansas recently organized
a relief effort to help a community destroyed by a tornado. The chapter worked
with their college and organizations within the community to provide support
for storm victims.
During the late hours of Friday, May 4, 2007,
a possible F-5 tornado swept through Greensburg, Kansas, damaging about
95 percent of the town. Many homes and businesses were destroyed by the violent
storm, which claimed the lives of at least ten people.
The chapter,
which is located about 30 miles from where the tornado struck, quickly responded
to the tragedy. Members set up a collection station in their college lobby
for food, toiletries and clothing. The items were then distributed to those
in need.
Phi Theta Kappa chapter advisor Tom McGovern says the
chapter has been doing all they can to help the victims of the storm.
"We
have been helping in every fashion possible," says McGovern. "Members
who are Red Cross trained have been involved from the start," he continued.
The chapter has been working with groups to help clean up areas
of the community affected by the storm, including local farms that were
completely wiped out by the tornado.
McGovern says members
are coordinating with the Kansas Region to implement a "work weekend."
Chapters from across the state plan to come together to help with the community's
clean up efforts.
While donations for food and clothing are
welcomed, McGovern says the greatest need is for monetary assistance for
the victims.
To learn more about disaster relief efforts in
the Midwest or to make a donation visit the Red
Cross or the
United
Way online.
