from a chickadee: Analina
It’s been almost a year since I was first welcomed into the warm community that is Chi Kappa Phi, and my love and passion for this organization continues to grow each and every day. Like many of you reading this letter, I was in search of friends, philanthropy, and a place to call home. Luckily, I found each of these (and much, much more) when I began the journey to become a Chickadee last Fall.
First and foremost, Chi Kappa Phi is a service society, dedicated to giving back to the community. Each incoming class begins their membership as “Peeps”, responsible for organizing a philanthropic endeavor exclusive to Chickadees: the Peep Project. This unique opportunity allows each incoming class to find a philanthropy special to them. The entirety of the Fall semester (and the beginning of the Spring semester) are then spent developing an event to benefit this philanthropy. Past classes have spent a week tabling, sold succulents, and even held a concert to raise money and awareness for their respective philanthropies.
My Zeta Class and I chose to organize an extravagant outdoor event benefiting Ecology Action of Texas, and just thinking about our Peep Project (and the cause we supported) warms my heart and brings smile to my face. It wasn’t perfect - an unfortunate storm made it cold, dark, and rainy - but that’s what made it so special. Despite the weather, my peers and I were radiating with energy; we donned earmuffs, gloves, and rain jackets, but that didn’t stop us from yelling with glee at every passerby that stopped by our tables. It was cold and rainy, but it was a success, and I hope for the same incredible experience for every Chickadee class to come.
This Fall, I’ll be serving as Peep Mentor for our incoming Eta Class, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to guide the Peeps as they develop their very own Peep Project. I’ll be a constant source of reassurance, advice, and support, but in the end, it’s the Etas that will lead their own Peep Project. Etas, I hope you take a moment to recognize the incredible journey you’re about to embark upon. The Peep Project is an an incredible opportunity for self growth, to nurture your budding passion for philanthropy, and to make a difference in your community. The friends you make along the way will last a lifetime, and so will the impact upon your chosen philanthropy. A year after joining Chi Kappa Phi, I can wholeheartedly say that my experience has exceeded each and every expectation I had, and I know that you will, too. I’ve found incredible friends, a philanthropic outlet, and a home. Join us, and you’ll find the same.
Analina Tunnell