To begin the campaign to improve relations between Rensselaer’s Greek community and the Troy community at large, representatives from the Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils attended the Troy City Council meeting on Thursday, February 5.
This meeting featured the State of the City address given by newly-installed Mayor Tutunjian. The mayor outlined his plans for revitalizing Troy’s economy and revamping buildings that have been eye-sores for years. Greek representatives addressed the council and made a commitment to create greater ties between Rensselaer’s fraternities and sororities and Troy. The council was very receptive; contact information was exchanged between council members, the mayor and community activists.
New avenues are opening so the greek community may enjoy better relations with the city of Troy as well as participate in more diverse philanthropic endeavors. Representatives will be sent to every meeting of the Troy City Council, which are held first Thursday of every month.
The Panhellenic Council established its newest philanthropic cause at its meeting last week: the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. We hope to raise $6000, which is the approximate amount to grant one wish. Together, with the Interfraternity Council, we hope to reach this goal by the end of the semester, but the deadline may have to be extended into next semester depending on the success of our fund-raising efforts.
Some fun ideas to raise money include sponsoring a date auction, a Rensselaer version of the Singled Out, and possibly holding a greek night in downtown Troy. Other sources will be sales of “go greek” mugs, donations, and proceeds from the Greek Three Day which begins March 26.
This Thursday, the Council will have a booth at the Health and Wellness Fair, so come visit us for more information about how you can help us with this undertaking.
