Feeling lucky? Want to help kids in need? The Beta Lambda chapter of Tri-Delta is hosting Delta Hold’em, an annual casino-themed event, on Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. at the Tri-Delta Mansion.
The event contributes to Tri-Delta’s nationwide goal of raising $60 million in 10 years, in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which makes it all the more special,” Isabel Sikora, the sorority’s philanthropy chair, said.
“September is national childhood cancer awareness month and that’s why we have our event in September, in support of raising money in support of childhood cancer research, and to support St. Jude in their mission to end childhood cancer,” Sikora said.
Last year, over $60,000 was raised at the event, the largest amount ever raised by a Greek organization at UCF. Unfortunately, many businesses were not able to sponsor the event this year due to Hurricane Irma.
“Many businesses were unable to sponsor due to businesses being closed for nine days, and we lost out on a large amount of money and it was too late to change,” Sikora said.
Sikora hopes to raise over $30,000 at this event. While a smaller amount than last year, she plans on doing several more smaller fundraisers throughout the semester to fundraise as much as possible for St. Jude.
“St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital lit a spark inside of me that makes me want to be a better person and save these precious children’s’ lives,” she said.
She continued: “This event and being philanthropy chair are important to me because I feel as if it is my way of saying thank you to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for all that they do. They endlessly give all they can, it makes me want to give all I can.”
This event holds a special place in other sorority sisters’ hearts as well, like Emily Manning, a sophomore studying business.
“I’m personally dedicated to raising as much as I can for St. Jude because my grandma, who is my role model, was very dedicated to donating to St. Jude,” Manning said. “I feel like I’d be making her proud, to be a part of such an amazing organization.”
Tickets range from $10 to $100. The $10 ticket includes casino games, like craps, roulette and blackjack, as well as food and entertainment. The $100 ticket grants entry into the Texas Hold’em Tournament, the highlight of the night.
The first, second and third place winners of the Texas Hold’em Tournament can win prizes like a free trip of the winner’s choice destination, tickets to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, gift cards and cash prizes starting at $500.
Tri-Delta will continue this event until their mission is completed.
“Tri-Delta strives to give all their efforts to raising money to this amazing cause and will not stop until childhood cancer is cured once and for all.”, Sikora said.
Tickets can be purchased online. Donations of any amount are also accepted.
