In today’s culture, the biggest way to raise money for philanthropy is through some sort of “thon.” For the past three years, the women of Phi Sigma Sigma’s Xi Chapter at Temple University have hosted a Dance-A-Thon raising money and awareness for Mothers Against Drunk Driving. All money raised goes directly to the cause to help spread awareness of the dangers driving while intoxicated. Although Temple University is located in one of America’s biggest metropolitan cities, where cabs and public transportation are prevalent, the threat of drunk driving is still as relevant as anywhere else.
The MADD Dance-A-Thon took place on a Friday night, a night in which most college students would rather be going out to begin the weekend. However, the turn out for the dance-a-thon consisted of predominately students who were all there to support the cause against drunk driving. The event had many raffles; consisting of a Nook Color, Phillies tickets, and a Tech Center basket full of everything a Temple Owl needs to be able to push through those long hours at a computer screen doing work. The event also had a variety of activities, one requiring the participants to wear drunken goggles and step into a cardboard cut-out car to navigate a driving course. Needless to say, the participants had a tough time finishing the course, ultimately stressing the danger of driving under the influence.
Mackenzie Krott, a Phi Sigma Sigma active member reflects upon the night. “The MADD Dance-a-Thon is such a great experience in that we’re able to join together with the Temple community and raise awareness and money for an amazing cause, one that affects so many,” she says. “This year’s Dance-A-Thon accomplished so much; I’m excited to see how much this event will grow in the next few years.”
Overall, the chapter wants to thank everyone that supported the event. They are thankful for those who donated money throughout the week leading up to the event through can shakes and for those who attended the event. Hopefully in the future more students will be a part of the event in order to spread awareness on campus about the dangers of drunk driving.