FSU students become chillingly aware of homelessness
The usual Saturday night party was not on the agenda for the brothers of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity on Jan. 30. They sponsored the 11th annual Sleep Out for the Homeless, a different type of party that raised awareness of the social and economical strains put on the world’s homeless population. The brothers collected donations of non-perishable foods, blankets and winter clothing from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m.
The event was co-sponsored by Sigma Gamma Rho and Gamma Sigma Sigma.
Hip Hop and Rap music filled the Oglesby Student Union as hundreds of students enjoyed the multiple performances and activities available. The cold weather might have been seen as a set back by any other group trying to put on an outdoor event, but Phi Beta Sigma welcomed it. Since the event’s founding in 2000, they have specifically planned this event for the beginning of spring semester during the winter, in order to most effectively show students adversities facing the homeless.
Junior, Vice President of Phi Beta Sigma and Chairman of Sleep Out for the Homeless 2010, Jason Alter was originally drawn to his fraternity based on its dedication to service.
“It’s what we pledge,” Alter said. “It’s what our older brothers instill in us, and then we continue it as a chain. We don’t have to do [service] anymore to get into college, you don’t do service to get recognition.”
Though Alter has never personally experienced homelessness, he is still motivated to help. Most of this motivation comes from tragedies he’s witnessed.
“I never experienced much struggle [growing up] but going to places like French Town and seeing how they struggle made me aware of how much I have,” Alter said. “Now I try to give back as much as I can.”
Alter hopes the event will have a positive influence on its attendees and FSU students.
“We wanted to raise cultural awareness,” said Alter. “Maybe people will think twice before judging homeless people asking for money. Everyone who is homeless has different reasons for being where they are.”
The overwhelming diversity of students present at Sleep Out for the Homeless 2010 affected the majority of students. In addition to the multi-cultural fraternity and sorority members hosting the event, the affair brought together a refreshing variety of FSU students.
“Without this, people would never even think about what the homeless go through,” said Lynneah Brown, a student.
The event’s DJ, Eddie “Squeeze” was inspired by the unique event.
“The keyword here is ‘humble,’” he said. “The type of bonding that takes place amongst these students, at 4 a.m. when it is 37 degrees, is simply irreplaceable.”
Kollage Dance Troupe, Start Statuz, C.Y.P.H.E.R, and 30 in 60 Comedy Troupe were among the performers. The 30 in 60 group wanted to perform because the event brought together a diverse student population for a common cause.
In addition to the performances, students were able to play video games and participate in dances. Throughout the night, the union became the sight of a huge celebration with an underlying sense of service.
