The Kappa Tau chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi is preparing for its annual Strike Out Arthritis Bowling Tournament.
Scheduled to take place at the Tangi Lanes Bowling and Recreation Center on April 13, the tournament will serve as a fundraiser for the fraternity’s international philanthropy efforts.
During the tournament there will be a silent auction, a raffle ticket sale and other activities to maintain involvement and interest as the tournament advances through three waves. Following the three game waves, the winners of each wave will be entered into the winner’s bracket and compete for the “Panda Cup” award.
Each member of AOII is required to recruit five teams of five or more participants to register for the event and a sponsor who will contribute a $150 donation.
“The profit comes from the $150 that a sponsor gives, and it’s around $16 to $18 to bowl.  For each person we have a $2-4 profit,” said Alpha Omicron Pi president, Kathryn Kennedy.
Registration will be open through March 22. The cost of participation is $20, which includes a T-shirt and the bowling fee.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the American Arthritis Association and AOII’s adopted juvenile arthritis patient Lucy, who will also be present at the tournament to support the fraternity’s efforts and show gratitude to those who contribute to the arthritis association.
“Lucy is the person that our chapter has decided to adopt,” said Kennedy. “She has juvenile arthritis and that’s what we support. We help pay for her medical bills, because it’s an expensive process. People can also donate and give to Lucy herself.”
Students are encouraged to invite their family members to participate. The event is not restricted to Southeastern students.
Last semester the tournament raised $16,000, and the fraternity is looking forward to exceeding this year’s goal of $15,000 as well.
“I’m looking forward to working with everybody, and I’m hoping we have a large turnout again,” said Kennedy.
The members of AOII have participated in several community events, including The Big Event, high school appearances and fundraising efforts throughout the year.
For more information on the tournament or to register a team for the event contact Kennedy at [email protected].