Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity hosts 24-hour Rockathon / Photograph: Shaddia Qasem / The Guardian
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity hosted its 24-hour Rockathon, which first began in 2006, on April 18 this year to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
The fundraiser took place in the Quad with Phi Beta Sigma’s president Tyler Willis starting off in the rocking chair and informing passersby of the cause.
“The Rockathon was an event that our brother came up with. His mom was diagnosed with cancer and he wanted to make a difference, so he created this event to raise money for the American Cancer Society. In the end [his mom] prevailed and conquered cancer,” said Trenton Miller, vice president of Phi Beta Sigma. “We look out for each other and put on an event for the community and give back to uplift and serve humanity.”
Along with fundraisers, Phi Beta Sigma also worked with the mentoring academy, talking and hanging out with the kids and being a role model [for them]; especially as black males.With a cause close to their heart, Phi Beta Sigma hopes to raise more for the American Cancer Society than they have in the past.
“[During the last] Rockathon, we raised $250. We would like to reach higher than $250, but anything helps,” said Willis. “We’ve had personal history with [cancer] here in the chapter. We’ve gotten a lot of support. It’s not just about money, it’s doing something that is dedicated to the cause.”
They have also done campus cleanups in the past to help the campus look better.
“We’ve been having a lot of great events that we feel have been able to contribute to the environment on campus and enhance the experience of campus life for students. We have study tables that can help students academically,” said Willis.
For future events and fundraisers, keep up with Phi Beta Sigma on their Facebook and Instagram @ABM_SIGMAS and their Twitter @WRIGHTSTATESIGMAS.
