Chapter Spotlight – Iota Zeta (Colorado School of Mines)
This week’s Chapter Spotlight is Iota Zeta (Colorado School of Mines), who’s Move Your Phi’t 5K had students, faculty and community members jogging for heart health. Director of Philanthropy Lena Drewes gives us the details.
Event Name: Move Your Phi’t 5K
Location: Golden, Colorado
Tell us about the event.
We held our 5K at a local park in downtown Golden and had students, faculty and community members attend the event.
What were the reasons behind hosting the event during Parent’s Weekend? How did this impact your attendance?
As we discussed possible dates, Parent’s Weekend was suggested because we thought it would be a great way to not only get APhi families involved, but it would drastically increase our overall turnout as well. As we had hoped, we more than doubled our attendance from the previous year, from around 50 registrants to about 120!
What was your favorite part of the event?
My favorite part of the event was that our University’s president also participated in the run. Getting to talk to him, showing him firsthand how great Alpha Phi is, and just having him involved in our event is something I’ll never forget.
How would you like to improve your marketing next year?
Next time we could involve local middle and high schools to participate in the event and get them excited about Greek life before they even begin college. We could also do more targeted marketing, such as posting flyers in local gyms, athletic stores, health food stores and at local doctors and/or chiropractors.
What are some tips you would give to chapters just starting to plan their 5K?
First, start early!! It can be easy to think that you still have plenty of time but the event always comes up quicker than you expect. Second, use your resources! This includes members of your chapter, but also campus resources. It’s always amazing how many people are willing to help if you just ask them. Third, incorporate things that worked really well for other chapters. This includes event timelines, posters, flyers, task lists, etc. Don’t feel like you have to start from scratch every time.