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Title:
Handbook for the Vice President of Philanthropic Service, 2018
Date/Date Range:
00/00/2018
Handbook for the Vice President of Philanthropic Service, 2018
Sigma Kappa
Handbook for the
Vice President of
Philanthropic
Service
2018
FOREWORD
"The purpose of Sigma Kappa Sorority is to provide women lifelong opportunities and
support for social, intellectual, and spiritual development by bringing women together
to positively impact our communities."
Article II, Section 1
Sigma Kappa Sorority Bylaws
This purpose builds on the values of our organization: friendship, loyalty, service and
personal growth, all bound by a promise. National council affirms that Sigma Kappa
collectively can only grow through the prosperity of each individual chapter. Such
prosperity must begin with sound and lasting leadership.
Each chapter officer is provided a handbook designed to give her the information
needed to perform the duties of her office and assist the chapter in achieving the Sigma
Kappa Standards of Excellence. Serving as a collegiate chapter officer exemplifies Sigma
Kappa's purpose and values.
© 2017 Sigma Kappa Sorority
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vice President of Philanthropic Service
4
Resources for the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
5
Advisor to the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
6
Philanthropic Service Committee
6
Philanthropic Service Committee Timeline
8
The Budget
10
Sigma Kappa Foundation History and Programs
11
PULSE
11
Sigma Kappa Foundation Giving
13
Sigma Kappa Foundation Scholarship Information
13
The Chapter's Philanthropy Program
14
Annual Philanthropic Programming
14
Ultra Violet Campaign
15
Walk to End Alzheimer's
15
Support of the Maine Sea Coast Mission
15
Week of Giving
16
Inherit the Earth
17
Gerontology
17
Additional Components in your Philanthropy Program
18
Philanthropy and Recruitment
18
Publicity and Public Relations
18
Chapter Educational Programming
19
Community Volunteerism
19
Keeping Accurate Records
20
Fundraising Philosophy and Procedure
20
The Annual Report of the Vice President of
Philanthropic Service
21
National Awards
21
Sigma Kappa Sorority . Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 3
VICE PRESIDENT OF PHILANTHROPIC
SERVICE
The vice president of philanthropic service (VPPS) is elected by the collegiate chapter
and is responsible for communicating, coordinating and executing Sigma Kappa
Foundation programs and all fundraising for the Foundation. The VPPS is also
responsible for any other philanthropic and service activities the chapter provides to the
campus and community. The VPPS strives to develop a balanced calendar of
philanthropic activities for the chapter.
In light of these responsibilities, the VPPS must do the following:
Prepare for the role:
Read, comprehend and follow the Handbook for the Vice President of
Philanthropic Service.
Access and watch all training modules associated with the VPPS role located in
SKILLab: Sigma Kappa's Interactive Learning Lab.
Be knowledgeable about all policies and procedures regarding service and
fundraising on a chapter, local, state and national level.
Educate chapter and community members:
Educate members about Sigma Kappa's philanthropies.
Develop chapter philanthropy resources to include videos, information about
volunteer opportunities, community resources and programs of the Sigma Kappa
Foundation. Share this knowledge with the chapter.
Facilitate chapter contributions to the Sigma Kappa Foundation, including
contributions to the PULSE (annual) fund.
Encourage and facilitate individual contributions to the Sigma Kappa Foundation
through awareness of the 1874 Giving Circle and other forms of giving.
Encourage individual chapter members to apply for academic scholarships
through the Sigma Kappa Foundation. Be familiar if your chapter has designated
scholarships for your chapter.
Coordinate and plan chapter philanthropic initiatives:
Plan and execute the Week of Giving.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 4
Coordinate at least one annual Ultra Violet event, as well as additional chapter
involvement in Sigma Kappa philanthropies.
Organize service projects for chapter and community members.
Coordinate and manage Sigma Kappa's participation in campus and local
philanthropies according to the interest and ability of the chapter.
Maintain accurate records:
Prepare and submit the Annual Report of the Vice President of Philanthropic
Service by the designated due date.
Maintain records of chapter and individual member philanthropic service efforts.
Keep files of all chapter service projects for future reference.
Provide an effective and thorough transition of the office to the successor.
Work with the VPF to submit donation checks and the Foundation
Alumnae/Collegiate Chapter Contribution Form within 30 days of event. (This
form is essential to ensure proper processing of gifts to the Foundation - this
includes proper credit to the chapter)
Collaborate with others:
Work closely with the advisor to the VPPS and the philanthropic service
committee to execute chapter service projects.
Work closely with the vice president of programming (VPP) to maintain a chapter
calendar that includes an Ultra Violet event and other philanthropic events and
chapter service projects.
Serve as a liaison between the chapter and the Sigma Kappa Foundation.
Work with Foundation district director (FDD) and their volunteer team to set
goals and ensure chapter event success.
Manage the philanthropic service committee.
Work with the vice president of alumnae relations (VPAR) to include alumnae in
chapter philanthropic service projects.
Work closely with the chapter public relations (PR) chairman, webmaster and
Sigma Kappa Triangle Correspondent to make sure that all projects are
adequately promoted.
Work with vice president of membership (VPM) to ensure members are fully
versed in the previous year's philanthropic efforts as well as any philanthropy
projects incorporated into recruitment.
Work closely with the vice president of new member education (VPNME) and her
advisor to educate and include new members in the philanthropy program.
Work with the vice president of scholarship (VPS) to assist members in applying
for Sigma Kappa Foundation scholarships by presenting, each fall, the
information received from the Sigma Kappa Foundation.
Resources for the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 5
In addition to this handbook, you must have certain resources and materials to properly
perform your job. Many of these can be found on the members only side of the Sigma
Kappa website. In your notebook and/or electronic files, you should have the following:
1. Ultra Violet Campaign Manual
2. Current chapter calendar to include service events and programs, scholarship
deadlines, and the annual report deadline
a. Current office goals
b. Detailed plans for upcoming philanthropy projects
3. Policies
a. Sigma Kappa Sorority Bylaws
b. National Policy Handbook
C. College/university policy related to fundraising
d. Panhellenic fundraising policy (if applicable)
4. Records
a. Detailed information on past chapter service projects and programs
b. Participation records for each member of the chapter
5. Reports and Forms
a. Current Annual Report of the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
b. Copies of past annual reports
C. Foundation Alumnae/Collegiate Chapter Contribution Form
d. 1874 Giving Circle Membership Form
6. Campus and Community Resources
a. Names and telephone numbers of campus philanthropy resources
b.
Names and telephone numbers of community philanthropy resources (i.e.,
volunteer center, United Way)
C. Names and telephone numbers of contact persons for your chapter's local
philanthropy projects
7. Foundation mailings sent from national headquarters (NHQ)
8. Philanthropy Committee
a. List of committee members, including telephone numbers and email
addresses
b. Budget for the committee
C. Minutes of committee meetings
9. Resources and Ideas
a. Ideas for new philanthropy projects
b. Educational programs to present to the chapter
C. Handouts from conventions/seminars
d. Newsletters from service organizations
10. Walk to End Alzheimer's Materials
a. "How to set up walk page"
b. Fundraising Ideas
C. How to get involved on walk day
Sigma Kappa Sorority . Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 6
Advisor to the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
The advisor to the VPPS provides continuity in a chapter's philanthropy program from
one year to the next. She is a member of the advisory board and can advise and guide
you in developing and implementing a philanthropy program appropriate for the
chapter.
To learn more about developing a relationship with your advisor, watch the module in
SKILLab: Sigma Kappa's Interactive Learning Lab that highlights best practices for
building this relationship.
What the Advisor Needs:
Handbook for the Vice President of Philanthropic Service
Ultra Violet Campaign Manual
Chapter Code of Conduct
National Policy Handbook
Sigma Kappa Sorority Bylaws
Chapter calendar
Copy of chapter philanthropic service program
Copy of the past two Annual Reports of the Vice President of Philanthropic
Service
Copy of committee goals
What if You Don't Have an Advisor?
If you do not have an advisor, there are several other resources available:
Advisory board supervisor (ABS)
Sigma Kappa Foundation staff
Collegiate philanthropy supervisor
Foundation district director
Director of service
Campus fraternity/sorority advisor
Philanthropic Service Committee
Effective chapter organization includes committees to work closely with respective
officers and chairmen. Chapter sizes and needs determine the size and responsibilities of
the committee. Committee members are selected or appointed by the VPP or executive
council.
The purpose of the philanthropic service committee is to work with the VPPS in:
1. Executing the duties of the VPPS (keeping records, executing programs,
organizing and staffing philanthropic projects).
2. Evaluating the chapter service program each academic term.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 7
3. Setting philanthropic goals for the chapter each term.
4. Planning and implementing the philanthropic service programs and projects each
academic term.
5. Assisting members and new members in their philanthropic pursuits.
6. Motivating members and new members in philanthropic pursuits through
education and mentoring.
Committee Meetings
Committee meetings are chaired by the VPPS and are open to any member of the
chapter. At minimum, the committee should meet every other week. As the time gets
close for particular projects, the committee may find it necessary to meet more often.
Minutes should be kept for each committee meeting. A copy of the minutes should be
kept on file, as well as given to the advisor.
At each meeting, the following should be covered:
Evaluation of previous month's activities.
Plans for the coming month.
Progress check on delegated responsibilities.
Activities to be scheduled on the chapter calendar.
Ideas for future programs/activities.
Review of budget and estimated expenses to date.
Be sure that these gatherings of the committee members are effective and efficient. The
time of each of our members is valuable. If committee members feel the meetings are a
waste of time, they will lose enthusiasm and decrease support for the philanthropy
program.
Delegation of Responsibilities
There are several different ways to delegate responsibilities among the committee
members. Each member, or pair of members, could take responsibility for a different
aspect of the philanthropic service program. In this case, each member, or pair, would
be responsible for all aspects of that particular project. For example, the following areas
might be delegated to committee members:
Week of Giving
Ultra Violet Program
Individual member giving to the Sigma Kappa Foundation, including the 1874
Giving Circle
Maine Seacoast Mission donations
Educational programs on Sigma Kappa philanthropies (Alzheimer's disease
research, Inherit the Earth, gerontology, Maine Seacoast Mission)
Walk to End Alzheimer's
Fraternity or sorority philanthropies on campus
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 8
Foundation scholarship program awareness
Another option would be to delegate components of each project to different members,
SO the entire committee is involved in every project. One member might handle
publicity, one would coordinate the time commitment of all chapter members, another
would handle contacting groups or agencies with which you may be working, etc.
Delegate some of the recordkeeping tasks among the committee members. For
example, one member can take the minutes at committee meetings, another can be
responsible for filling out the participation records for all chapter members, and another
can track service projects undertaken by the entire chapter.
Philanthropic Service Committee Timeline
As the committee develops and implements a successful philanthropic service program,
it will be helpful to follow this timeline. It includes all national programs that have been
previously mentioned. Revise this based on your chapter's specific calendar. If your
chapter has additional philanthropy commitments, be sure to include them in this
timeline to allow adequate time to plan for them effectively.
JANUARY
Get organized! Read the handbook, complete your online training course and
familiarize yourself with VPPS files.
First meeting of the committee: focus on team building and delegation of
responsibilities.
Work with the VPP to secure dates for philanthropy events on the chapter
calendar.
Distribute spring philanthropy program to the chapter.
Set goals for spring term.
FEBRUARY
Work closely with the VPNME to educate and include new members in the
philanthropy program.
Discuss upcoming campus and community philanthropy events.
MARCH
Set the date for Week of Giving (in November) and begin planning.
Brainstorm events for the fall term (Walk to End Alzheimer's, Ultra Violet).
Brainstorm ideas for incorporating service with your chapter's recruitment efforts
(continuous open bidding, informal recruitment, and formal recruitment) and
discuss with the continuing membership chairman (CMC) and/or VPM.
Finalize plans for a spring Inherit the Earth project.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 9
Work with the VPAR to invite the area alumnae chapter and/or local alumnae to
participate in the Inherit the Earth project.
APRIL/MAY
Set dates and details for fall events.
Execute an Inherit the Earth project.
Evaluate spring projects and make suggestions for improvement.
Share proposed fall program with the VPPS advisor and advisory board for
approval.
Present the proposed fall program to the chapter for a vote of the chapter.
Submit philanthropic service budget recommendations to the VPF.
Submit the approved fall program to the VPP for placement on the chapter
calendar.
Coordinate with webmaster to include events on chapter website and create a
social media plan.
Contact the Foundation if you plan to use an online giving page/platform as they
can be a resource in planning these efforts.
Involve alumnae chapters in philanthropy plans.
Continue discussing any campus philanthropy events which might be scheduled.
JUNE/JULY/AUGUST
Research area Walk to End Alzheimer's. Begin to plan chapter involvement in the
Walk and put the date on chapter calendar. Set a chapter team fundraising goal.
SEPTEMBER
First meeting of the committee - focus on team building and delegation of
responsibilities.
Distribute fall philanthropy program to the chapter.
Set goals for fall term.
Conduct educational program on the importance of community service and the
Sigma Kappa Foundation philanthropies.
Work closely with the VPNME to include new members in the philanthropy
program.
Participate in area Walk to End Alzheimer's (month may vary by location).
OCTOBER
Brainstorm philanthropic service events for the spring term (Inherit the Earth,
Ultra Violet).
Brainstorm ideas for incorporating service with your chapter's recruitment efforts
(continuous open bidding, informal recruitment, and formal recruitment) and
discuss with the CMC and/or VPM.
Finalize plans for the Week of Giving.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 10
Present information on the 1874 Giving Circle.
NOVEMBER
Conduct the Week of Giving program.
Collect and send gifts to the Maine Seacoast Mission.
Choose a date in April for Inherit the Earth projects and begin planning.
Meet with representatives from your area alumnae chapter and the senior citizen
organization you will be working with to start making plans for Inherit the Earth.
Evaluate fall service projects and make suggestions for improvement.
Set dates and details for spring events (such as Ultra Violet).
Share proposed spring program with the VPPS advisor and advisory board for
approval.
Present the proposed spring program to the chapter for a vote of the chapter.
Promote the Sigma Kappa Foundation scholarships during chapter meetings.
Scholarship applications open in December.
Submit the approved spring program to the VPP for placement on the chapter
calendar.
Complete the Annual Report of the Vice President of Philanthropic Service.
Be sure to include the local gerontology project in the planning timeline.
The Budget
The VPPS should have a budgeted amount of money to spend on projects. This amount
is in addition to the amounts that are budgeted for the Ultra Violet Campaign, PULSE
(Annual) Fund contribution, Maine Seacoast Mission, and other campus and community
philanthropies. This money is used to cover expenses incurred by the committee, such
as copies, postage, paper, decorations, etc. Meet with the chapter VPF to find out how
much money has been allotted for the committee. Keep an accurate record of how
much is spent throughout the term, and check periodically with the VPF to make sure
the records match. The VPF may ask theVPPS to keep an expense record, and the
chapter may have procedures that must be followed for expenditures. Be aware of and
follow these policies.
Philanthropy, by nature, should not involve much expense. A minimal amount of money
should be used for supplies and for publicity of activities. Often, all of a chapter's
publicity costs are budgeted for the PR chairman. Check with the VPF to determine the
budget from which these expenses are charged. Please use the Foundation team in your
district as well as Foundation staff to help with cost cutting ideas.
A chapter should annually budget money for expenses for the Ultra Violet Campaign,
donations to the Maine Seacoast Mission and the Sigma Kappa Foundation PULSE
(Annual) Fund. Please note - monies donated through the use of a giving platform
Sigma
Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 11
(Classy, CrowdChange, etc.) are sent directly to the Sigma Kappa Foundation and
expenses will not be reimbursed to the chapter. Budgeting is essential. Monetary
donations should be remitted with the Sigma Kappa Foundation Contribution Form. This
form is located in the VPPS and VPF's annual supplies. Money raised from the Ultra
Violet Campaign is to be sent to the Sigma Kappa Foundation. Gifts and gift cards for
the Maine Seacoast Mission should be sent directly to the Mission, but other financial
gifts should be sent to the Foundation first.
Sigma Kappa Sorority . Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 12
SIGMA KAPPA FOUNDATION HISTORY AND
PROGRAMS
For more than 50 years, the Sigma Kappa Foundation has supported Sigma Kappa
Sorority. With a unity of purpose, our Foundation has played and continues to play a
crucial role in the growth and success of Sigma Kappa, providing the lifeblood of
financial resources to keep our Sorority vital and healthy.
Our Mission
The mission of the Sigma Kappa Foundation is to create and fund leadership,
scholarship and philanthropic initiatives that reflect the values and spirit of Sigma Kappa
Sorority.
Our Vision
Sigma Kappa Foundation has a powerful vision for our dynamic organization to remain
strong one that assures Sigma Kappa continues to grow, innovate and thrive.
PULSE
The Sigma Kappa Foundation Board of Trustees has identified five critical funding
priorities for supporting Sigma Kappa's members and programs. The acronym PULSE
outlines these funding priorities in a simple, yet memorable way:
Philanthropic Initiatives; Unrestricted Gifts; Leadership Development; Sisters in Need;
Education
PULSE is not just a way of presenting our priorities; it's our commitment to Sigma Kappa.
Simply stated, we must make the heart of our Sorority strong enough to beat for
generations to come. And that will take a commitment of giving and a strong PULSE.
Philanthropic Initiatives
Support Alzheimer's & gerontology research and the Maine Seacoast Mission
Sigma Kappa is playing a major role in the quest to find real breakthroughs for a
cure for Alzheimer's disease. Women are disproportionately affected by
Alzheimer's.
Two-thirds of the more than five million Americans living with Alzheimer's are
women
60% of the unpaid Alzheimer's caregivers are women
A woman in her sixties is twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's during the rest
of her life as she is to develop breast cancer
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 13
These are just a few of the reasons Sigma Kappa pledged and fulfilled the lead
gift of $1 million to the Alzheimer's Association's Women's Alzheimer's Research
Initiative. The gift will fund innovative research focused on women, including
studies to understand why more women are living with the disease and studies
led by female researchers working to advance Alzheimer's and dementia science.
Our commitment places Sigma Kappa among the largest private donors to
Alzheimer's research, the Zenith Society.
Sigma Kappa's 1918 convention chose the Maine Seacoast Mission as our first
national philanthropy in honor of Sigma Kappa's founding in Maine. Our
relationship with the Mission shines as the longest continuous philanthropic
partnership between a fraternal organization and a charity and represents an
enduring local legacy for Sigma Kappa. Annually, the Sigma Kappa Foundation
provides the Mission with a grant to meet an emerging need such as housing
rebuilds or support of the Sunbeam V, a ship that provides medical services to
people on the outer islands of Maine.
Unrestricted Gifts
Meet the emerging and changing needs of our organization and membership.
Sigma Kappa Foundation provides support to sisters by responding to the
emerging needs of college and alumnae women, but we also have ongoing and
unexpected needs that cannot be anticipated. That is why unrestricted gifts are so
important - they go to work immediately.
Leadership Development
The best way to develop leaders is to invest in them. They in turn become our
volunteers, who learn skills they can share with our collegians as well as our alumnae.
The training they receive helps them throughout their lives in terms of careers, families,
communities and society. From conflict resolution to risk management to presentation
and negotiation skills, Sigma Kappa leadership initiatives prepare our young women for
the workforce and the world. It is one of our most important investments in terms of
time and resources.
Sisters in Need
Support sisters through the Alumnae Heart Fund and Sister to Sister Disaster Recovery
Fund.
In response to the back-to-back hurricanes that ravaged the Gulf Coast in late
summer 2005, the Sigma Kappa Foundation established the Sister to Sister
Disaster Recovery Fund. Today, the Sister to Sister Disaster Recovery Fund assists
alumnae and collegiate members of Sigma Kappa who find themselves in
financial distress due to the occurrence of a U.S. presidentially-declared major
disaster or emergency.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 14
The Alumnae Heart Fund is designed to provide assistance to aid alumnae who
find themselves facing financial distress, emergency or crisis through aging,
medical, natural disaster, or other severe personal or family problems.
Education
Awarding academic scholarships and opportunities for values-based programming.
Approximately 70 scholarships are provided by the Foundation to encourage and
support the scholastic development of our collegiate and alumnae sisters. Since
1989, the Foundation has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships.
The Sigma Kappa Foundation offers scholarships for Sigma Kappa members to
attend the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) and LeaderShape
(sponsored by AFLV) using donations from new 1874 Giving Circle memberships.
Sigma Kappa Foundation Giving
Chapters use the Sigma Kappa Foundation Chapter Contribution Form which is included
in the VPF and VPPS annual chapter supplies to make donations to the Sigma Kappa
Foundation.
1874 Giving Circle
The 1874 Giving Circle is unlike any other fraternity or sorority undergraduate giving
club.
Members make a gift of $18.74 to the Sigma Kappa Foundation to join and have a say in
how their dollars are invested in Sigma Kappa by deciding which chapter projects
should be funded from a group of qualified grant applicants.
Their gift also helps to benefit all undergraduate members of Sigma Kappa through:
Scholarships to attend the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) and
LeaderShape
1874 Giving Circle grants for chapters' educational and charitable projects. Each
grant is awarded up to $2,500 (budget depending). More information can be
found on www.sigmakappa.org/foundation. Examples of previous grants include:
Support of local soup kitchen to provide meals for the homeless
Maine Seacoast Mission hands-on summer service visit by chapter
members
Provide educational tools and toys for memory care patients
Health Fair to provide free health and safety education for underprivileged
schools
Funding for the Sorority's member development programs, such as the Regional
Leadership Conferences and the Leadership Consultant Program
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 15
Sigma Kappa Chapters that reach 40% membership in the 1874 Giving Circle during the
calendar year are eligible to apply for grants to implement educational or charitable
projects that will benefit their chapter, campus and community. Chapters also receive
Standards of Excellence (SOE) points based on the percentage of chapter members who
participate in the 1874 Giving Circle.
The 1874 Giving Circle is a great way for collegians to promote a culture of philanthropy.
Gifts can be made on the Sigma Kappa website or via the 1874 giving circle membership
form (individual/chapter), which can be found in VPPS supplies.
For questions regarding the 1874 Giving Circle, please contact the Foundation.
Sigma Kappa Foundation Scholarship Information
The Sigma Kappa Foundation strives to support its members through educational
scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate level study.
The VPPS should:
1. Be knowledgeable of the Foundation's scholarships.
2. Assist the VPS in reviewing the scholarship information in chapter meetings,
reminding members of criteria and deadlines.
3.
Guide and assist worthy members in filing applications. Scholarship applications
and policies are posted on the Sigma Kappa Foundation website.
THE CHAPTER'S PHILANTHROPY PROGRAM
A general introduction to the philanthropies the chapter supports is the beginning of a
solid philanthropic service program. When planning a philanthropic program, there are
several things to keep in mind:
Plan a balanced program to support the Ultra Violet Campaign, Maine Seacoast
Mission, gerontology, Inherit the Earth and Alzheimer's disease research.
The major focus of the philanthropy program should be to fund and support
Sigma Kappa's philanthropies. It is commendable to help and support other
organizations to enhance their philanthropy programs, but consider the
resources of the chapter members. Each Sigma Kappa member has a demanding
schedule and, therefore, a limited number of service hours to contribute. Promote
Sigma Kappa philanthropies first, and participate in outside projects as the
members' time and energy will allow.
Send all contributions for Sigma Kappa philanthropies to the Sigma Kappa
Foundation at NHQ so that the chapter will receive credit for the contribution. All
contributions should be sent within 30 days of the event in order to receive
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 16
maximum Standards of Excellence points.
Keep accurate records so that the Annual Report of the Vice President of
Philanthropic Service is a true reflection of the chapter's philanthropic program.
Sigma Kappa national policy states that a chapter may not sponsor or co-sponsor
a function or event with an alcohol distributor or at a bar/tavern where alcohol is
given away, sold, or provided; nor may a chapter accept a prize or raffle from
fundraising projects involving alcoholic beverages.
Sigma Kappa national policy states that all fundraising events/activities of
collegiate chapters must be in compliance with national policies and shall be
approved at least three weeks in advance of the event by the ABS. Fundraisers are
to be used for philanthropic endeavors only and cannot be used to supplement
or cover chapter operating expenses of any kind.
Cash, service and product contributions to collegiate and alumnae chapters of
Sigma Kappa are not tax-deductible for the donor. Issue receipts and/or thank
you letters for significant contributions stating the amount or nature of the gift.
These communications must state, in a separate paragraph, that the gift is not
tax-deductible.
Gifts made directly to the Sigma Kappa Foundation are tax-deductible. The
Foundation will issue a receipt to the donor for their tax records. If the sponsor
indicates which collegiate chapter or alumnae chapter solicited the gift, the
Foundation will credit that chapter with raising the donated funds.
Annual Philanthropic Programming
In support of Sigma Kappa's designated national philanthropies, the following events
have been adopted as national projects in which all Sigma Kappa chapters are expected
to take part. These programs will provide the base for the annual philanthropy program.
Additional projects can be added to the program as the chapter's time and resources
will allow.
Ultra Violet Campaign
The official Sigma Kappa fundraiser is the annual Ultra Violet Campaign. The planning
and execution of the Ultra Violet Campaign is the responsibility of the VPPS with full
support from the philanthropic service committee.
The Ultra Violet Campaign is a fundraising event concept that provides Sigma Kappa's
collegiate and alumnae chapters with effective and engaging opportunities to raise
funds and awareness for Sigma Kappa's philanthropic priorities.
Ultra Violet events raise dollars to support the PULSE (Annual) Fund, which addresses
the Foundation's funding priorities: Philanthropic Initiatives
of Alzheimer's/Gerontology and the Maine Seacoast Mission; Unrestricted
Gifts; Leadership Development; Sisters in Need; and Education. In order to qualify for
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 17
maximum Standards of Excellence points, event dollars raised must be unrestricted
dollars to PULSE (Annual) Fund and turned in within 30 days of the event.
Chapters may choose from a variety of Ultra Violet fundraising events or develop one of
their own, and structure or advertise their event to raise awareness for the Foundation's
mission and any of its causes. Visit the officer resources section on the members only
side of the Sigma Kappa website to access event planning guides and other Ultra Violet
Campaign resources. The Foundation can assist you in your advertising/marketing
messages to ensure your efforts reflect the intended allocation of donations, aka "donor
intent."
Walk to End Alzheimer's
Sigma Kappa has been a national team partner for the Walk to End Alzheimer's since
2008, and is committed to raising at least $500,000 annually. The national team has
raised more than $3.6 million for Alzheimer's research in its eight-year history, with
more than 20,000 members participating in walks in the last two years alone. In 2017,
the Sigma Kappa national team raised more than $1 million, securing Sigma Kappa as a
platinum level team again for 2018.
Sigma Kappa's partnership with the Alzheimer's Association is more important than
ever, and every member can play a role in supporting the search for a cure to this
disease.
Collegiate chapters must participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer's to earn points for
Standards of Excellence. Points are awarded for participation or dollars raised. Visit
www.walktoendalz.org/sigmakappa to register for the national team. It is essential to
register your team through our national team page, with "Chapter Name - Sigma
Kappa" as your team name to ensure proper tracking with no confusion.
Support for the Maine Seacoast Mission
Sigma Kappa chapters are asked to support the Maine Seacoast Mission annually.
Financial support should be sent to the Sigma Kappa Foundation and must be clearly
designated for the Maine Seacoast Mission on the Chapter Contribution Form.
Each year the Maine Seacoast Mission distributes about 10,000 holiday gifts to more
than 3,200 children, families, nursing home residents and prisoners. You can help by
donating gift cards, new toiletries, clothing and personal care items; see the Maine
Seacoast Mission's holiday wish list on their website, which is also published in the
Sigma Kappa SKoop each year.
Gift cards and gifts the can be sent directly to the Maine Seacoast Mission for holiday
distribution to the people served by the Mission. These gifts must be sent in early
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 18
November in order to reach the Mission in time. For this reason, many chapters
incorporate this project into their Week of Giving. Please package toiletries carefully as
they can leak, and be sure to include a note that identifies your chapter and your
mailing address so the Mission is able to acknowledge your gifts.
Week of Giving
Sigma Kappa's nationwide Week of Giving occurs each year during the week of
November 9, our Founders' Day. It is a time to celebrate our history of sisterhood and
service to others. The VPPS plans five days of activities for the chapter and ends the
week with the Founders' Day celebration. Because this week involves several projects,
usually with varying themes and activities, it is a great opportunity to fully utilize the
philanthropic service committee. Here are some sample themes and activities to get
started.
Campus Day
Set up an information table in the student center with information pertaining to
Sigma Kappa and our philanthropies. This also would be a good place to collect
items, gift cards, or monetary donations for the Maine Seacoast Mission.
Invite faculty and staff to a coffee and doughnut break or open house. This can
be done either at the house, suite, lodge or a room in the student center.
Put an ad in the school newspaper thanking the faculty and staff.
Send the president of the university and his/her spouse an appreciation violet
plant.
Send the fraternity/sorority advisor a gift of appreciation.
Donate something to the university or college: a park bench, a tree, etc. Check
with the fraternity /sorority advisor before making purchases.
Sponsor an educational or motivational lecture on campus.
Fraternity/Sorority Day
Bake cookies, "Sigma Kappa Sweets," for sororities and fraternities.
Send thank you notes to sororities and fraternities thanking them for their
support during the year.
Host a Panhellenic luncheon for the Panhellenic council's executive board and the
fraternity/sorority advisor.
Send members of your advisory/corporation board small tokens of appreciation.
Community Day
Visit a local nursing home, women's shelter, crisis center or children's home and
volunteer for an arts and crafts hour.
Clean up a local park or playground.
Go as a group to donate blood at the local hospital or blood bank.
Donate flowers or shrubs to the local city park district.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 19
Donate new trashcans for the local park or playground.
Bake cookies for local fire and police departments.
Host an activity for local children.
Sponsor a campus blood drive.
Gerontology Day
Visit a local nursing home/retirement center and interact with the residents.
Host a luncheon after Sunday services for the senior citizens of a local church.
Sponsor a gerontology awareness program to be held at the house, lodge, suite
or student center.
Inherit the Earth
Adopted in 1992, Inherit the Earth is Sigma Kappa's national gerontology service project.
The program is designed to combine our interest in gerontology with a project to
benefit the environment. Inherit the Earth gives Sigma Kappa members and senior
citizens the opportunity to work cooperatively in the community. The project should
also create an awareness of environmental issues and solutions, as well as demonstrate
Sigma Kappa's commitment to service. Most chapters plan their Inherit the Earth project
in the spring, usually occurring in late April to coincide with Earth Day.
In planning this project, work with an alumnae chapter and an active senior citizen
organization in the college community. Together, these three groups can participate in a
mutually agreed upon environmental project. Depending on the amount of time that
each group is able to contribute, plan either an ongoing program or an annual event. It
is important is to select a project that the whole group is enthusiastic about, that is
worthwhile, and that is appropriate for the community and the resources available.
Remember, this is to be a service project, not a fundraiser. Here are some ideas to get
started:
Recycling: If it is not well established on your campus or in your community,
address the problems and help get it established. Sponsor a "Celebrate Recycling
Day" in April.
Set up a tree planting program by contacting local nurseries for donations,
assessing where trees are needed and working with local officials for permission
to plant.
Contact the National Wildlife Federation about establishing a wildlife habitat on
the campus, near the senior center, or in a local park.
Adopt a stretch of highway, pledging to keep it clean and beautiful. Do this for a
park, river bank or hiking/bicycle trail. Check with local officials. This project could
have many facets including recycling trash or planting trees and flowers.
Organize a "Toxic Waste Day" in the community so that batteries, paints,
pesticides, etc., will be disposed of safely.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 20
The possibilities are endless! The Inherit the Earth committee can brainstorm these and
other ideas to come up with a program that everyone likes and that works for the
community.
Gerontology
In further support of Sigma Kappa's dedication to gerontology, each chapter is expected
to have a local gerontology project in which it participates. Be creative in finding a
project that will be exciting for your members. The only requirement is that the project
must benefit senior citizens. Here are some ideas to get started:
Work with a retirement center or nursing home in the community. Chapter
members can lead a game of bingo and provide the prizes, sponsor a movie
night for residents, etc. Contact the activities director at the center to find out
what is needed. Let him or her know what type of commitment (time and
volunteers) the chapter can make and he or she will assist in defining the
chapter's role in the center.
Get involved with the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Opportunities
for service include helping with registration at educational forums for caregivers,
speaking to community organizations about Alzheimer's disease, and serving as
hostesses for support group meetings. To locate the Alzheimer's Association
chapter nearest you, visit www.alz.org.
"Adopt" a grandparent (or two or three!) and visit with him/her. Help them with
their grocery shopping, run errands together or do whatever else the chapter can
do to be of assistance.
Volunteer to help senior citizens fill out their income tax returns. The Internal
Revenue Service (IRS) provides training. This project is a great experience for
members who are interested in financial careers. For information, contact the IRS
or the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).
Additional Components in your Philanthropy Program
Philanthropy and Recruitment
Recruitment is an excellent time to speak with potential new members about the
importance of philanthropy and the role it plays in Sigma Kappa membership. Make
sure that during the chapter's pre-recruitment activities, time is reserved to refresh
members' memories about the philanthropic projects that the chapter participated in
during the last year. During recruitment, proudly display the products of the chapter's
work: community service awards, letters of recognition, publicity received, photos, etc.
During tours, have a bulletin board, table or wall dedicated to philanthropy and service.
Ask the VPM to have philanthropy as one of the focus topics for conversation during a
round of recruitment. Incorporate information about the chapter's philanthropic and
service projects into recruitment slide shows, videos, etc.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 21
If your campus has adopted philanthropy projects as a part of formal recruitment, work
closely with the VPM to assist in planning the activity and preparing members for
conversation.
If the chapter participates in an ongoing recruitment effort, either through continuous
open bidding or structured informal recruitment, work with the CMC and/or VPM to
involve philanthropy and service. Include potential new members in an upcoming
service project or plan a special philanthropy project as the basis for an informal
recruitment party.
Publicity and Public Relations
Sigma Kappa's image on each campus, and nationally, is created through our deeds and
actions. Publicity for our philanthropic work using our graphic standards can improve our
reputation, both on campus and in the community. The promotion of projects can be a
big job, so work with the chapter PR chairman to accomplish this task. It is important to
incorporate the graphic standards into your publicity. Designate a member of the
committee as the liaison to the PR chairman and/or her committee, or have joint
committee meetings before major projects.
Keep in mind that many types of publicity need quite a bit of lead-time to get
organized. Work with the PR chairman as early as possible so that publicity is timely and
high-quality. The methods utilized may include the following:
Advertisements
Press releases
T-shirts and programs
Posters and banners
Fliers
Radio and/or television public service announcements
Announcements to other organizations on campus and in the community
Word of mouth
Internet promotion (social media, chapter website, etc.)
Service Shout Outs: inform the director of service about your projects and she
can publicize them as well
Chapter Educational Programming
Educating chapter members about our philanthropy efforts is an important aspect of the
VPPS's responsibilities. At least once each year, make arrangements with the VPP to
present a special program regarding our national philanthropies, the Sigma Kappa
Foundation and local organizations your chapter supports. Utilize a guest speaker,
a
video or some other type of special presentation. Workshops on philanthropy and
service can be found on Workshop Warehouse, located on the members only side of the
Sigma Kappa website.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 22
Community Volunteerism
In every community, there are virtually endless opportunities for volunteer work.
Concerned citizens donate their time to hospitals, nursing homes, senior citizen centers,
mental health services, crisis centers, children's homes, churches, boys/girls clubs, big
brothers/sisters, foundations for the arts and other organizations. Encourage each
chapter member to get involved in the community by volunteering individually with an
organization close to her heart. Recognize those members who do volunteer work, and
ask them to tell the chapter about the work they do. Be sure to include this work on the
member's participation record.
Help your members in this effort by putting together a volunteer resource file that
includes information about organizations in the community that utilize volunteers. To
help get started, ideas for volunteering are listed below:
Women's clubs or shelters
Federal government volunteer programs (i.e. Peace Corps, IRS - volunteer to help
older Americans complete income tax returns)
Places of worship
Public or private schools
Theater groups
Fire departments
Police departments
Courts
Political or voter registration offices
Social service departments at the city, county, regional, or state levels.
Legal aid bureaus
Consumer affairs offices
Community nutrition centers
Home-delivered meals programs
Hospitals
Hospices
Mental health clinics
Community centers
Senior centers
Nursing homes
"Hotline" telephone centers
Family service and public welfare organizations
Youth groups
Public libraries
Museums
Art council
Animal shelters
Parks or recreation departments
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 23
Source: American Association of Retired Persons: "To Serve, Not To Be Served"
Keeping Accurate Records
Project Summary and Evaluation
After the chapter completes each project, the committee should meet to evaluate the
success of the program. Discuss the participation level of the chapter members, what
seemed to work well, and what could be improved. The amount of money spent on the
project should also be recorded. A sample Project Summary & Evaluation form is located
on the members only side of the Sigma Kappa website. Use this form or record
evaluations in a computer file. These records will make it easier to complete the annual
report as well as provide a resource for future chairmen.
Individual Service Records
Records should be kept of the time and money that each chapter member donates
during her time in the chapter. Records should be updated regularly and documented
per academic term. These records will help determine the total amount of service hours
donated by the chapter for the year. Be sure to include hours that a member may
contribute to organizations other than Sigma Kappa philanthropies. When a member
graduates, the participation record may be given to her for her own reference.
Fundraising Philosophy and Procedure
Fundraising is not the same as service. Generally, fundraising is the process of garnering
financial support for a philanthropic cause. An event designed to raise money in support
of a particular philanthropy is called a "fundraiser" or "fundraising event." The event also
presents an opportunity to educate the public and raise awareness for the cause, so it
may still have philanthropic aims even if its primary purpose is to raise money.
Fundraising events should be fun and reflect the personality of the chapter while
promoting the philanthropic interests of the organization.
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 24
THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE VPPS
The VPPS is responsible for completing and filing the Annual Report of the Vice
President of Philanthropic Service by the deadline each year. This report is needed to
compile the Sigma Kappa Foundation's Annual Report covering the calendar year
January 1 - December 31. Additionally, the Annual Report of the Vice President of
Philanthropic Service is evaluated for the chapter's Standards of Excellence annual rating
and for award recognition purposes. The annual report form is found on the members
only side of the Sigma Kappa website.
Care should be taken to keep adequate records of philanthropic activities through the
year. Keep records of event income and expenses, as well as the number of chapter
volunteers and volunteer hours. The chapter VPF should keep a record of philanthropic
giving, both locally and nationally.
National Awards
Lillian P. Budd Award
The Lillian P. Budd Award is presented annually to the chapter with the most
outstanding gerontology programs.
Edna B. Dreyfus Award
The Edna B. Dreyfus Award is awarded annually to the collegiate chapter which
contributes the greatest amount of money per member during the award period to the
following Sigma Kappa Foundation projects: Maine Sea Coast Mission and Alzheimer's
disease.
Ultra Violet Campaign Award
The Best Ultra Violet Campaign Award is awarded annually and recognizes one
collegiate chapter and up to six honorable mentions (one from each district) for
excellence in participation in the Ultra Violet Campaign. The award is based on creativity
of campaign (presentation via photos and description), fundraising technique (quality,
creativity and effectiveness of techniques actually used to raise money) and public
relations (quality, creativity and use of Ultra Violet name, logo and color in newspaper
advertisements, articles, signs, posters, banners, invitations, etc.).
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook page 25
SIGMA
KAPPA
Live with Heart
695 Pro-Med Lane, Ste 300
Carmel, IN 46032-5323
317-872-3275
f: 317-872-0716
e: info@sigmakappa.org
www.sigmakappa.org
Sigma Kappa Sorority Vice President of Philanthropic Service Handbook . page 26