With all that has occured in the past few weeks each of us has been affected in a different way. Despite this horrific event, we have all begun to move forward in our own manner but have not forgotten those lost in the attacks. Even if in no other way, this event has benefited us by making us feel more loyalty, patriotism, and unity within our country and community. More then ever before, you see American flags waving high and strong and communities coming together to heal, remember and move forward. The greek community has also come together in many ways participating in events to support the victims. Through these events we have shown service and dedication not only to our fellow students but also to a community larger than RPI. It is important now more than ever before that everyone, and especially greeks, demonstrate our strength, leadership, and support for those in the community both at RPI, in the city of Troy, and in our nation as a whole.
An excellent opportunity for all of us to get involved is through community service. RPI’s next Community Service Day will be held on September 29, 2001. There are many different events planned so participants can choose the way they feel they can best serve the community and provide a gratifying experience for themselves. We can also use this opportunity to greater unify our chapters by working together towards a common goal. Choices of worksites for the September Community Service Day include Poestenkill Gorge clean up, 2001 Memory Walk to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association in Saratoga, Joseph’s House Shelter setup, American Heart Walk, and the Junior Museum. I suggest that all greeks participate and show the city of Troy that the greek community of RPI strives to make a difference.
On this day of service we are a visible presence in the community that is our home for four years of college. President Jackson often talks about her vision for communiversity. We each can contribute to the success of this vision through events such as Community Service Day. We can learn a great deal from the people of Troy if we seize the opportunity.
Please take the time as an individual or as a chapter to consider this day of service. For more information and to sign up, e-mail the Office of the First-Year Experience at fye@rpi.edu or visit their website, http://www.rpi.edu/web/communityservice/csd.html. Let us show others how very strong we are as a greek community.
