Our Philanthropies
Sigma Kappa Foundation
The Sigma Kappa Foundation was founded in 1962 and supports educational and philanthropic endeavors of Sigma Kappa Sorority. Originally founded as a trust, the foundation was incorporated in 1989 as a 501 (c)(3) organization making it a non-profit corporation. The foundation helps arrange educational programming and speakers as well as helping to promote leadership development and programs. The foundation also assists in coordinating donations, materials, and programs for research in Alzheimer's disease and gerontology and contributions to the Maine Sea Coast Mission. The Sigma Kappa Foundation receives its funding through the generosity of collegiate and alumnae members, collegiate and alumnae chapters, and from outside private and individual contributions. Sigma Kappa chapters nationwide support the national philanthropies which include:
Alzheimer's disease research and education is our main philanthropy. In 1984 Sigma Kappa responded to an increasingly critical problem facing older Americans by adding Alzheimer's disease research and education to its philanthropic activities. Research grants are made each year to universities and other institutions actively engaged in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Nationally, Sigma Kappa donates over $500,000 a year to support Alzheimer's research. Each fall Sigma Kappa chapters sell lollipops on their campus and in their communities to help with the cause.
Since 1918 Sigma Kappa has paid homage to its Maine roots by supporting the activities of
the Maine Sea Coast Mission. This is in honor to our five founders from Maine. The Main
Sea Coast Mission delivers critical services to people in need striving to redress the root
causes of these needs. With the help of the 75 foot mission vessel, Sunbeam V, programs and
services include church and pastoral work, assistance to those in sickness and poverty,
financial aid, food banks, recycled clothing shops, crisis intervention, youth programs, and
ministries in the field. Each November, Sigma Kappa donates funds for medical aid, food,
clothing, toys, etc. to the Mission, which benefits families residing on the islands from
mid-coast to down east Maine. The gifts are delivered in December by boat, which is known
to the locals as the "Santa Clause Cruise".
Gerontology
In 1954 Sigma Kappa became the first national sorority to recognize the need for continued, comprehensive work on the study of aging and needs of the elderly population. Collegiate and alumnae chapters throughout the country volunteer their time, effort, and support to numerous causes. The Gamma Upsilon chapter does a lot of work with Center In The Woods, we participate in dances and many other activities that the center offers throughout the year.
Adopted in 1992, Inherit the Earth is Sigma Kappa's national gerontology service project,
which not only combines the interest in senior citizens with interest in the environment,
but also raises awareness of environmental issues and solutions. Through Inherit the Earth
collegians, alumnae, and older citizens work together to improve environments.
