April is known for its unpredictable weather. I mean, "April showers bring May flowers," is the cliché excuse we give to the unknown amounts of rain and sunshine in this spring month, which was the reason Turtle Tugs was not a thing last year.
Now that it is our last Turtle Tugs ever, my sisters of Delta Zeta have made it their mission to make sure everyone knows of our final event, and why we started it in the first place.
As exciting as it is to get dirty in Jell-O and play in water activities when it probably is too cold to do so, the real reason we have put on this event for so long is to benefit a good cause.
Turtle Tugs is Deta Zeta's philanthropy that raises money for the chronically ill children of The Painted Turtle Camp. It was one of the reasons I chose to become a sister of this sorority. I loved the idea of being a part of something bigger than myself (as everyone says during recruitment), but this was larger than what I expected. The idea of raising money for a cause that is not as well known as the other philanthropies was always what really sparked my interest in joining Delta Zeta.
This is incredibly important to me, because for any person to have to endure serious illness is awful, but for a child, it just isn't fair.
Plus, we all know how kids were when we were little; they were ruthless. The Painted Turtle Camp gives these kids — who may feel they do not belong — a place where they can belong, learn more about themselves, meet other kids who are similar to them and create lasting friendships.
Even though I have never met the kids we have sent to this camp, I still meet children whose illnesses are controlling their childhood and people who are in need every day. Remember that monetary donations aren't the only way to contribute; some people just genuinely need a smile or someone just to listen.
This is our chance to make a difference in the world; if not in raising money, then in treating others with more kindness and love daily.
Please consider coming to Delta Zeta's final Turtle Tugs, April 19, 2015 at Lafollette Fields at Ball State University, starting at 11 a.m. or donating to our Go Fund Me page.
Anything helps and these kids deserve it.
