HIGH POINT, N.C., Nov. 5, 2015 – High Point University’s Alpha Chi Omega sorority raised over $1,400 during their philanthropy week on Oct. 26-31. The money that they raised will be donated to the Family Service of the Piedmont’s Carpenter House, which shelters women and their children who have been victims of domestic violence.
“These women and the families that we locally serve through the Carpenter House deserve to feel the love, attention and the respect that they deserve as individuals,” says Jennifer Swiger, HPU student and Alpha Chi Omega member. “Our advocacy and monetary support is with the hope that we can help these women regain their confidence and voice as strong females.”
The sorority held several events on campus throughout the week including a self-defense class, a “These Hands Don’t Hurt” event where students pledged to raise awareness about domestic violence by placing their hand prints on a banner, and a “Strut Your Stuff” event where men raced in red heels to support the fight against domestic violence.
“We are very grateful to Alpha Chi Omega for their support of Family Service of the Piedmont,” says Shay Harger, director of victim services at Family Service of Piedmont. “This gift will provide much needed support to ensure that women and children staying at Carpenter House are able to rebuild their lives.”
“We hope this money is helpful to these women,” says Lauren Rubenstein, HPU student and vice president of philanthropy for Alpha Chi Omega. “Many of them leave challenging situations with nothing but the clothes on their backs. We help provide them with the things they need when possible, whether it be interview appropriate clothing to help these women get back on their feet or some gift cards to buy groceries. Any little bit helps in a tremendous way.”