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September 20, 2019 Contact: Anna Kauffman

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Phone: (608) 772-8008
Email: aekauf1@ilstu.edu

Local Chi Omega Sorority Plans on Raising Over $60,000 for Make-A-Wish
Foundation

NORMAL, Ill. - “A wish come true helps children feel stronger, more energetic, more willing
and able to battle their critical illnesses. For many, the wish marks a turning point in the fight
against their illnesses. That is why wishes matter. That is why we grant wishes.” (Make-A-Wish
Foundation)

Every year Chi Omega sorority puts in hours of time for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Overall, Chi Omega has raised over 20 million dollars for their philanthropy. Chi Omega’s
alliance with Make-A-Wish started in 2002 after a couple years of research to find the perfect
organization.

This year Illinois State University’s Chi Omega is hosting their 42nd annual March
Madness dance competition. In this fundraiser, all of the greek houses on campus will compete
in a dance competition. The first, second, and third place teams for both sororities and fraternities
receive a monetary donation to their own philanthropy as well.

In previous years the event has been held in the Bone Student Center, but this year they
have moved locations to the Redbird Arena. This venue is able to hold many more people, which
is something the sorority is excited about. March Madness Chairwoman Elise Fain said, “I know
we want to raise $60,000 or more. Even though we do have higher expenses this year with the
move, we are hoping that the number of seats available and the larger opportunity to market
towards the community, we will be able to reach and exceed our goal.”

This year's March Madness will be held April 6th at 7 p.m. In order to reach their goal for
Make-A-Wish, they have tickets on sale until the day of the event. They also have a donation
page for those who can’t be in attendance, or for those who want to donate more.

Fain said, “The most important lesson I have learned from Make-A-Wish is to appreciate
the amazing people I have surrounding me, many of which Chi Omega brought into my life.
March Madness is my opportunity to give back to not only the organization for what it has
provided me, but to children and their families who need our love and support. I know in my
heart everyone we have helped in the past, and will help in the future, truly appreciate our efforts
to bring light into their situation. When ISU’s Greek life comes together for March Madness, we
truly make an impact and that is what matters to me.”
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