The Delta Sigma and Epsilon Kappa Lambda chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Delta Iota chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. sponsored a 5K for March of Dimes Saturday. The event, which began at the Grambling track and continued throughout Grambling, raised $547.36.
Breakfast was served before the event and the Alphas barbecued after everyone returned.
The 5K kicked off Alpha Week for the Delta Sigma Alphas. The week will conclude Friday with a Halloween party at Alma J. Brown elementary school.
Numerous Grambling State students and community members supported the endeavor.
“The March of Dimes 5K walk/run was a great way to bring students together to support such a great cause,” said Miss Covergirl Brittney Brown, a participant in the event.
Ronald Pikes, president of the Delta Sigma Alphas said that the Alphas were pleased with this year’s participation and would love to see the number increase.
“The event was a great success,” said Amber Williams, president of the Delta Iota Deltas.
“It was great to see the streets of Grambling flooded with students, faculty and other citizens, all walking and running …”
The March of Dimes 5K was not a new opportunity for some to give back.
“I knew about the March of Dimes and have made donations numerous times,” said Monique Williams, an English senior and participant.
“However, I didn’t realize that Northern Louisiana had the highest rate of premature births. Being from Monroe,that really hit home. “I applaud the Alphas and Deltas for a job well done.”
According to the March of Dimes web site, representatives work toward a future when all children will be born healthy.
March of Dimes awarded upwards of $20 million to fund grants to prevent newborn birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Louisiana has the nation’s highest infant mortality rate.