The Zeta Pi Chapter of Alpha Tau Omega has redefined what it means to serve. Recently, this UTM fraternity was recognized by the national organization of ATO and named the Good Samaritan Elevate runner-up with over 12,000 service hours. Though being a small chapter, the passionate men of Zeta Pi have made not only an impact in the communities of West Tennessee, but also they have selflessly made an impact in the lives of children affected by cancer.
“ATO is a brotherhood that works towards making each other better. But our commitment to St. Jude is what really brings us together. Even though we only raised $100,000, it puts a smile on our faces knowing that we have helped save a child’s life,” said Tyler Radford, current President of Zeta Pi.
In 1964, Zeta Pi adopted St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital as their philanthropy. Having this philanthropy for almost 50 years, the men of Zeta Pi have raised over several million dollars for the children of St. Jude. In 1989, the men started “The Push,” a four-day long event in which they walk through four Tennessee cities, eight hours a day and conclude in Memphis, Tenn., at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. They then tour the hospital and present the check. This past spring, $23,000 of the $100,000 came from this four day push.
The first Push, in 1989, only raised $9,900. Since 2001, they have raised at least $100,000 each year. Over the past 12 years alone, they have raised a total of over $1.5 million. Also, throughout the school year, the men will travel to the hospital to donate blood and platelets for the children. Each bag of platelets is worth $750; this is one of the main ways Zeta Pi gives to St. Jude.
“Service means everything to ATO. We raise $100,000 for St. Jude every year, which puts us second in the nation for philanthropic donations. For a smaller school, that’s a huge deal. Getting to tour St. Jude is one of the most beneficial experiences I’ve ever had. It will change your life and how you think about things,” said Nathan Hart, member of Zeta Pi.
Not only do they raise money for St. Jude by “The Push” and giving blood, but they also host fraternity events at their house that benefit the hospital. In the fall, they host “Hop For A Cure,” which consists of different events for all sororities on campus to participate. In addition to this, they have penny wars, pledge auction and a corn hole tournament. They also have a coat drive during their Help Week, and they participate in the campus Up Til Dawn event. All of these functions help raise money that is donated straight to St. Jude.
“To be able to raise $100,000 a year is something that we can pride ourselves on. To be able to have an impact on people’s lives in need is truly a blessing. During my four years being involved and around St. Jude taught me a lot of life lessons. It’s a very humbling experience. Getting to meet the children is something you can take home with you. It makes you feel like you’ve done something worth while,” said Barrett Tanner, alumni of Zeta Pi.
After a successful year of raising money and serving, the men of Alpha Tau Omega at UTM are looking forward to another great year. With their 50th anniversary approaching in February, these men have set higher goals for themselves hoping to exceed their own expectations and raise more money than they ever have.
