From April 5 to April 10, Chi Omega will host their annual Make-A-Wish Week, in which various events will occur to aid in raising money to grant a child’s wish.
Chi Omega’s philanthropy is Make-A-Wish, which is an organization that grants wishes to terminally ill children and their families. This week begins with Venmo Instagram fundraisers where the sisters raise money through their personal Instagram accounts. On Wednesday, they will host a Make-A- Waffle event in the Bowld. This is followed by a car wash at the Chi Omega house on Thursday and a percentage day at Los Portales. Finally, Saturday is their biggest event called Swishes for Wishes.
“Make-A-Wish has such a special place in my heart,” said Chloe Jenkins, junior marketing major and sister in Chi Omega. “My little brother recently became a Wish-kid and this week is a great opportunity to give back to an organization that has directly impacted my family.”
In past years, Chi Omega granted gifts such as Disney World or a trip to Hawaii, but because of COVID-19, they cannot send people on trips until 2022. Instead, they can grant gifts such as a new dog, college tuition or anything else they may want. Unlike past years, they cannot have the child come to the Chi Omega house to present the wish, but they are thinking of other ways to celebrate the child who receives the wish. One example is a parade by their house.
“Philanthropy is huge to us because we want to make a difference in the lives of these children,” said Leah Herndon, sophomore psychology major and Philanthropy Chair. “By being involved, you are not only being involved with Union, but people are making a difference in the lives of the children. Every dollar goes towards getting their wish granted.”
Herndon’s responsibility is to be the middleman between Chi Omega and Make-A-Wish. She planned all the events this week and will oversee each event as it is happening.
To be involved with or learn more about this week, go to Chi Omega’s Instagram or talk to them at their table outside of Brewer Dining Hall.
