Theta Xi makes record donation to Habitat for Humanity

Each year the Kappa Omicron chapter of Theta Xi fraternity at Lenoir-Rhyne University supports Habitat for Humanity through action and fundraising. At a men’s basketball game in Shuford Arena on February 21, the fraternity presented a check to for a record-setting $1750 to Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley.

“Although Theta Xi does large donations each semester to our national philanthropies, including Habitat for Humanity, we've never done one quite this large or to this scale,” said chapter president and community health major Devin Osborne ’24. 

Demonstrating an expanded commitment to community service was a goal set by the chapter’s executive board. Habitat for Humanity holds a special place within Theta Xi’s list of national philanthropies because it reflects the fraternity’s core values of responsibility, service, and community.

“We hope that this donation demonstrates how much our chapter prides itself on service and leadership,” said Osborne.

Members of the Kappa Omicron chapter found the presentation ceremony at the basketball game – a matchup against Coker University – to be one of the most gratifying parts of their philanthropy. 

“Habitat brought in two representatives and one of the families who benefited from their builds, so we had the chance to meet with them and talk to them a little on the things we do to raise money for our philanthropies,” said biology major Elijah Yang ‘25, philanthropy chair for the chapter. 

While he is proud of their fundraising efforts, Yang expressed hope that future work between Theta Xi and Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley will include participation in a build. 

“This act of kindness truly embodies the spirit of giving back and making a positive impact on the community. We congratulate and thank Theta Xi for their inspiring generosity and commitment to supporting those in need,” commented Walter Kennedy, coordinator of fraternity and sorority life.

All fraternities and sororities at Lenoir-Rhyne participate in public service or philanthropy, with each organization focused on a specific set of issues. 

• Zeta Tau Alpha sorority focuses on breast cancer education and awareness. 

• Delta Zeta sorority supports issues related to speech and hearing as well as awareness of the Deaf community. 

• Kappa Delta sorority partners with Girl Scouts of America and Prevent Child Abuse America. 

• Pi Kappa Phi fraternity works with The Ability Experience, an organization promoting acceptance and support for people with disabilities. 

• Omega Psi Phi fraternity funds the Charles R. Drew Memorial Scholarship, which supports the education of students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). 

• Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity promotes social, economic and educational development in underserved and underrepresented communities. 

• Iota Phi Theta fraternity fights human trafficking and all forms of abuse through its I-S.H.I.E.L.D. initiative.