About
Philanthropy
Sigma Kappa provides many opportunities for members to become involved in community service. We do a lot of work with the Public Service Center at MIT to do numerous projects within Boston. This past year, we painted toys and built gingerbread houses during the holiday season with children from an orphanage, and had an event called Sigma Days where we helped build an outdoors classroom for an urban elementary school.
Nationally, Sigma Kappa supports foundations in four pursuits: Alzheimer's Disease, Gerontology, Inherit the Earth, and Maine Sea Coast Mission.
Alzheimer's Disease
In 1984 Sigma Kappa responded to an increasingly critical problem facing older Americans by adding Alzheimer's Disease research and education to its philanthropic activities. Research grants are made each year to universities and other institutions actively engaged in the fight against Alzheimer's Disease. Nationally, Sigma Kappa is the second largest donor to Alzheimer's Disease research. Our chapter sells lollipops in the fall and roses in the spring to raise funds for research. We also host a huge philanthropy event in Kresge Auditorium every fall called Late Night where students showcase their talents for the MIT community. This coming year, we are excited to contribute even more to this cause by starting a team for Alzheimer's Memory Walk in Boston. We raised approximately $2400 last year, and hope to be just as successful this year.
Gerontology
In 1954 Sigma Kappa became the first national sorority to recognize the need for continued, comprehensive work on the study of aging and the needs of elderly populations. The Theta Lambda chapter contributes to this cause by helping the elderly community around the Boston/Cambridge area and making greeting cards for them during the holidays.
Inherit the Earth
Adopted in 1992, Inherit the Earth is Sigma Kappa's national service project benefiting the environment. Each year, chapters plan a service project that protects and preserves our local community.
The Maine Sea Coast Mission
Since 1918, Sigma Kappa has paid homage to its Maine roots by supporting the activities of the Maine Sea Coast Mission. Each November, chapters donate needed funds and goods to families residing on isolated islands off the rocky coast of Maine. The Mission provides comfort, companionship and needed supplies to isolated mainland communities, as well as to lighthouses and islands along the coastline.