The Original “Pledge Mom” -Mother Earth

Back during my “pledge” days we had “Pledge Moms” (now known as “Big/Littles.”). However, we all have the original “pledge mom” or big sister.. our own Mother Earth. So in the spirit of Inherit the Earth and Earth Day in April,  this post will focus on how we can be both green and Greek! This month gives each one of us a chance to ‘pledge’ a way to help out Mother Earth by taking care of the fine planet we call home. If you really stop and think, being eco-conscious is seeping into all aspects of our lives, both as students and in our post-college lives. So, how you ask?

Being Greek and Being Green

About a year ago, the Gamma Zeta chapter at Northern Illinois wanted to make a positive impact on campus. They have done activities such as campus cleanups, brought potted plants to the local nursing/retirement home, and even adopted a local road. However, after some engaging COA conversations, the women wanted to do something different. A few sisters were already living more  “eco-friendly,” and suggested we “green” the house. The response was overwhelmingly positive and is still going strong today. Working with the advisory board and corporation board, the women voted to remove as many of the paper products as possible from the kitchen in the chapter house. Instead, members would bring their own bowls, plates, cups and utensils when they wanted to have a snack or eat outside of the normal dining hours at the chapter house. No more were cabinets stuffed with paper bowls and plates for late night bowls of cereal, ice cream or warming up leftovers! The women have made this a part of the house culture and almost two years later it is still going strong and the women like doing their small part in the go green initiative!

Turning Alumnae Green

Our acts are not just limited to our collegians, but also extend out in the alumnae world. The South Suburban Chicago alumnae group has plenty of “green” thumbs as our members talents with gardens can be easily seen attending meetings at each other’s homes. For the past 25 years, they have given their gift of  gardening to the Wood Side Manor Nursing Home in the south suburbs of Chicago. Every April, for our philanthropic activity, chapter members come out bright and early on a Saturday morning armed with plants, shovels, dirt and a smile! Together with some of the local residents, the women plant beautiful gardens with a wide variety of flowers in window planters and create a welcoming garden in the entrance of the home.

So yes, in our corner of the earth we are making small efforts to keep our inherited earth cleaner and greener. What are some Inherit the Earth activities you have engaged in as an alumnae , individual or when you were a collegian?

Members of the SK South Suburban Alum Group planting flowers!

Green Activities

1) A recycling fundraiser that raises funds on an ongoing basis while reducing landfill waste.

2) A cleanup effort that produces visible, tangible results that benefits your community.

3) Computer: Recycling old toner and ink cartridges or donating computers to schools, libraries and community service groups  instead of throwing them away.

4) Campus Planting: Work with your local university to sponsor a garden, green roof or other campus beautification

5) Car Pool: Drive together when possible! Or walk as much (and safely) as you can instead of using a car!

6) Reuse: Use water bottles you can fill up instead of buying plastic every day! Same with coffee mugs! Great New Member gifts or New Alumnae welcome gifts!!