The University’s chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA) volunteered at the Ocean Front Bash “Let’s Build It Together” in Ocean Grove, New Jersey for Mary’s Place by the Sea on Saturday September 6, 2014.
ZTA is well known for their support with breast cancer awareness as well as education. This year, they decided to raise the bar and support more local communities by volunteering at new events off campus. Their first goal of the year was to find an organization that helped others in their own community.
“We were introduced to Mary’s Place by Jon, the Greek life advisor,” said ZTA president and senior communication major Erin Ally. “They were having this event, and were looking for organizations that were willing to volunteer.”
“Let’s Build it Together” was held by Mary’s Place by the Sea as a fundraiser to raise money to build a new 10-bedroom handicap accessible home. Mary’s Place helps women empower themselves while going through cancer. They are offered one on one counseling, art therapy, and even nutritional counseling. Each guest is also offered light spa services, and are able to stay overnight at the home which is located on Broadway Avenue in Ocean Grove.
ZTA spent their night setting up the event, interacting with the attendees, and working throughout the event. An hour before “Let’s Build it Together” was set to begin; a storm took out a lot of the previous work that had already been finished.
Tease Gould, Senior Systems and Technology Administrator at Monmouth University, is one of the founders of Mary’s Place. She said, “We were all hands on deck to redo what had been setup before the winds and rains took everything down. These ladies jumped in and began wiping down everything. We were up and ready to greet our first guest of the evening on time.”
The girls who volunteered at the event were Erin Ally, Lisa Jacobs, Rachel Brochhagen, Kelsey Comyack, Ayla Yildiz, Carly Swanson, Krista Delia, and Morgan Celiano.
“When my sisters and I volunteered at Mary’s Place by the Sea I had no idea what to expect,” said Lisa Jacobs, a junior communications major with a focus in public relations and journalism. “When we got there we were greeted by women who shared their stories with us. It was extremely motivating and made me want to help out Mary’s Place by the Sea as much as I can. The women there really appreciated everything my sisters did. I learned so much from these women; they are truly inspirational.”
Founder Michele Gannon was overwhelmed by the turnout and support for Mary’s Place.
“Our Ocean Front Bash was an incredible event filled with generosity, gratitude and LOVE!” said Gannon. “This community motivates us and inspires us each day to work hard for women on the journey with cancer. It is an honor to be a part of this mission.”
All proceeds of the night will go towards the two million dollars needed to build the new home. All the services offered are free to the guests and are raised by various fundraisers and donations.
ZTA is now in the process of electing a Local Philanthropy Chair within the chapter. This person will then be the main contact between the sorority and Mary’s Place.
“Once we have that line, you’ll be seeing ZTA support Mary’s Place in each and every way possible,” said Ally.
ZTA host several fundraisers throughout the year including Big Man on Campus, and a Think Pink Volleyball Tournament in October. They also attend events like the Think Pink Giants and Jets Tailgate to raise money.
If any student is interested in learning more about ZTA at Monmouth University, they can check out their website at Monmouth.zetataualpha.org. They can also contact ZTA president Erin Ally at s0837569@monmouth.edu or Amanda Caruso at s0890274@monmouth.edu
PHOTO COURTESY of Zeta Tau Alpha
