Pi Kappa Phi is proud to be only Greek organization that owns and operates its own philanthropy, Push America. Every year, the Southern Miss chapter of Pi Kappa Phi raises thousands of dollars to help individuals with disabilities. A truly unique event is Push America’s Journey of Hope, which raises money and awareness for people with disabilities through cycling across the United States. Just last year, three of our members participated in the Journey of Hope, with another undertaking the adventure this summer.
Active Brothers Ben Hollywood and Cullen Gilbert participating in the 2011 Journey of Hope. Riders travel from San Francisco, CA, to Washington, D.C., raising empathy and awareness for people with disabilities.
Give-A-Push Weekend
In addition to the Journey of Hope, Push America hosts a variety of events. Recently, Theta Alpha and the University of Southern Mississippi hosted a Give-A-Push Weekend. Brothers from chapters across the region spent the weekend at Southern Miss participating in projects to raise empathy and awareness about people with disabilities. Participants helped build an accessible trail at the new Lake Thoreau facility operated by the Department of Biological Sciences. They also participated in a pumpkin carving friendship visit with residents at Ellisville State School.
GAP Weekend participants pose after a long day of building bridges and clearing brush. The trail made will give people with disabilities the opportunity to observe and enjoy nature at Lake Thoreau in Hattiesburg.