Nationally, Kappa Kappa Gamma has developed a philosophy for community service that is easy as 1-2-3.As individuals with time, talent and treasure, we first support our families. Second, we participate in local projects. Third, we look to the greater good-projects with far reaching results.
1. Our Family: The Foundation
The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation provides both emotional and financial support to Kappas in need.Contributions from our chapter and other Kappas around the nation help continue the work of the Foundation in the areas of scholarships, confidential aid, education, training, and support of our HeritageMuseum in Columbus, Ohio, and the Stewart House in Monmouth, Illinois.
2. Local Projects in the USD Community
Each chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma is encouraged to adopt their own local cause.Our chapter at the University of San Diego chose breast cancer awareness, as many of our sisters have been affected by this disease.Each fall, we hold a “Breastival” with the hopes of spreading breast cancer awareness throughout USD's community.At the “Breastival”, the entire community is invited to visit educational and game booths to learn more about breast cancer.In 2009, we held the first “America’s Breast Dance Crew”.This friendly dance competition raised money for ScrippsPolsterBreastCareCenter.
Ballers for Children with Lambda Chi Alpha
In addition to the Breastival, Kappa participates in many other philanthropic events throughout the year.Each fall, we host “Ballers for Children” with the men from Lambda Chi Alpha.Ballers is a 3 on 3 basketball tournament that raises money for STEP, a nonprofit started by USD students which helps to bridge the technological divide in classrooms.
Our chapter women give countless service hours to support many worthy projects and charities. Each member has her unique interests and many are involved in other charitable organizations on our campus.As a chapter, we always try to support the individual efforts of our sisters made inside and outside of Kappa events.
Decorating Easter Eggs at Manchester Child Development Center
3. The Greater Good: Reading Is Fundamental
Kappa Kappa Gamma as a national organization has adopted the philanthropy Reading is Fundamental. RIF was established to serve the nation's under-served children through the gift of literacy. Each spring, we hold a book drive along with a "Reading is Key" event at USD where we invite children from local communities to explore our campus and the joy of reading. We also participate in a journal buddy program with a local middle school. At our weekly meeting, we write a letter to our buddy. We exchange journals back and forth throughout the semester. In our entries, we answer questions about high school and college and encourage our journal buddies to pursue a higher education.
