The Sigma Kappa Foundation is a central element of our organization. Since inception, the Sigma Kappa Foundation has granted more than $1 million in Alzheimer’s disease research and psychosocial grants to investigators and practitioners who are on the front lines in the fight against this debilitating disease. Additionally, the Foundation annually gives educational and leadership grants and scholarships. Developing young leaders, providing access to higher education, and addressing important issues facing college women and society are important to Sigma Kappa Foundation and have been the guiding spirit of our work for more than 45 years.

Gerontology

In 1954 Sigma Kappa became the first national sorority to recognize the need for continued, comprehensive work on the study of aging and the needs of elderly populations. Collegiate and alumnae members throughout the country volunteer their time and talent in support of numerous projects to assist and benefit the elderly.

Sigma Kappa, Zeta hosts an annual Senior Citizen Prom at a local retirement home. Sigma Kappas dance and mingle with residents of St. Mary's Court every spring at the Senior Prom with themes such as Rockin' Through the Decades and Casino Night.

Alzheimer's research

In 1984 Sigma Kappa responded to an increasingly critical problem facing older Americans by adding an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease to its gerontology program. Sigma Kappa has become one of the nation's leading contributors to Alzheimer's disease prevention, research, and treatment efforts.

Since the inception of the Foundation's Alzheimer's Disease and Research Grant Program in 1988, the Sigma Kappa Foundation has granted over $1 million in research and psychosocial grants to investigators and practitioners who are on the front lines in the fight against this debilitating disease.

In 2000 the Foundation entered into an agreement with the national Alzheimer's Association whereby the Association selects scientific research proposals for sponsorship by the Foundation, ensuring that gifts are utilized most effectively. In 2003, the Sigma Kappa Foundation pledged $240,000 for a four-year period. In addition to gifts from members and friends, the research grant is primarily funded through the annual lollipop campaign. Thanks to the efforts of Sigma Kappa's collegiate chapters, the Foundation is doing its part to create a world without Alzheimer's disease.

Awarding research grants is only one aspect of the Foundation's commitment to eliminate Alzheimer's disease. Educating Sigma Kappa members and creating awareness is also a priority. All chapters have access to educational materials and programs about Alzheimer's disease and the impact Sigma Kappas have had in the continuing struggle to find a cure.

Maine Sea Coast Mission

Since 1918 Sigma Kappa has paid homage to its Maine roots by supporting the activities of the Maine Sea Coast Mission. The Mission delivers critical services to people in need while striving to redress the root causes of those needs. With the help of the 75-foot mission vessel, Sunbeam V, direct programs and services include church and pastoral work, assistance to those in sickness and poverty, financial aid, food banks, recycled clothing shops, crisis intervention, youth programs, and ministries in the field. The Mission serves the islands from mid-coast to Downeast Maine, as well as mainland Hancock and Washington counties.

Inherit the Earth
This program ties Sigma Kappa's interest in older citizens with its interest in the environment. Through Inherit the Earth, collegians, alumnae, and older citizens work together to improve local environments.

Sigma Kappa's Philanthropic Activities

Ultra Violet Days

Sigma Kappa, Zeta Chapter hosts a variety of philanthropic events annually.  In the fall, the Zeta chapter hosts its annual "Ultra-Violet Days" part of a national Ultra Violet Campaign.  During the week, fraternities  compete against one another in an eating contest, "Sig Kap Throwback" themed lip-sync and more!

National Memory Walk

Also in the fall, Sigma Kappa participates in the National Memory Walk, hosted by the Alzheimer's Association.  Last year in the walk alone, Sigma Kappa raised over $5,700 and had the largest team!

Please support our 2010 Memory Walk team! Visit our team page!

Sigmalympics

In the spring, Sigma Kappa hosts its annual "Sigmalympics" a fun-filled philanthropic field day where different Greek organizations compete against one another for the Sigmalympics gold metal. The events included jell-o jousting, toga making, tug-of-war, and more!

Senior Citizen Prom

One of our most valued community service events is our annual Senior Citizen Prom. Last year, we hosted our 10th annual prom at St. Mary's Court. Sigma Kappa sisters hosted a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing with the elderly residents.  The night is never complete without the crowning of the annual senior citizen prom king and queen!

Community Service Activities

Sigma Kapa organizes and participates in several community service events each year. This past spring, our sisters volunteered for the organization, Washington Parks and People, with the brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon. Sisters enjoyed a day of planting and mulching trees and cleaning up the park.

Before leaving for winter break, sisters also participated in the Adopt-A-Family program with the brothers of Pi Kappa Alpha. Sigma Kappa and Pi Kappa Alpha hosted a holiday party during which they wrapped presents for the adopted family of six.

Sigma Kappa alsa organized a blood drive for the American Red Cross on campus during the spring with the sisters of Alpha Delta Pi. The blood drive was very successful, 50 donors attended and 30 pints of blood were collected.

Sigma Kappa also participates in tons of philanthropy events hosted by other chapters on campus such as Sigma Phi Epsilon's Sweetheart Week, Pi Kappa Alpha's Fireman's Challenge, Sigma Chi's Derby Days, Pi Kappa Phi's War of the Roses, Alpha Epsilon Pi's Sugar High Week, Delta Tau Delta's Mardi Gras Week, Zeta Beta Tau's Get On The Ball, and Alpha Epsilon Phi's Bowlanthropy.