Zeta Beta Tau fraternity raises funds for the Children's Miracle Network

The Delta Xi chapter of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity at Virginia Tech implemented a new program this summer to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network of Roanoke.

“Get on the Ball” was held at several locations around campus in August, where fraternity members worked to gather as many signatures as possible on a 6-foot-tall inflatable ball––more than 3,800 in all.

Several sponsors contributed donations for each signature received on the ball, totaling more than $1,000. While this was the first time the program has been done at Virginia Tech, other chapters across the country have been putting on the event for years. It not only increases awareness on the college level, but also helps tremendously increase funds to the charity.

“It's important to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network because they help provide vital equipment for hospitalized infants and children,” said Ryan McGinnis of Stafford, Va., a junior majoring in political science in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences and philanthropy chair in Zeta Beta Tau. “Whether it's providing surgical and diagnostic tools or toys and games, the Children's Miracle Network provides a service to make sure that a child's stay is as beneficial, comfortable, and enjoyable as possible.”

Prizes were also raffled off at the event, including an iPod Shuffle, portable DVD player, DVDs and gift certificates to several Blacksburg businesses.

Zeta Beta Tau, the nation's oldest and largest historically Jewish fraternity, adopted the Children's Miracle Network in 2002. Since then, chapters and colonies have partnered with their local Children's Miracle Network hospitals to raise thousands of dollars each year.