Alpha Phi Omega seeks to recruit members

Later this semester, students might see rubber ducks floating down the Jordan River. Bathtub escapees? No.

The ducks will be a part of Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity’s fundraiser.

During the previous two weeks, and concluding this weekend with induction, APO has been having rush information sessions. The rush process for APO differs from other Greek organizations.

“We allow anyone to become a pledge, no matter their year, academic standing or anything like that,” senior and President Erica Young said.

Six students attended Wednesday night’s information and board game session at the Indiana Memorial Union.

The night started with an ice breaker in which a ball with questions on it was thrown around. Students had to answer whatever questions their right hands landed on.

Jorey Greenland said she hoped to become more involved around campus and meet new people.

“It seems that all of the community services they do are fun, as well as beneficial to others,” she said.

Prospective member Christopher Moore volunteered in high school with organizations such as Key Club.

“I definitely like helping better the lives of people who live in the community,”
he said.

If interested potential members can’t make any rush events, they can still show up to induction Sunday and become fraternity members.   

The fraternity has more than 100 members, who are required to complete 30 hours of service each semester and attend a certain number of social events, as well as required club events.   

Young said APO also has a social side. The group had a Super Bowl party, as well as a number of potluck dinners.

She also said one of their big fundraisers is a rubber duck regatta. The group sells raffle tickets, each of which matches up with a numbered-duck. The ducks are then sent down the Jordan River, and the winners receive prizes.

The selected beneficiary this year is WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology, which will use profits to help kids who can’t afford the entrance fee.

Freshman Jessica Joseph pledged in fall 2011 and is now the vice president of finance.

“Because I felt it was such a good fit for me, I wanted to have an active role in the
fraternity,” she said.

Last fall, the pledges sponsored a dance for the citizens at Bell Trace. Each semester, the pledges pick what kind of service activity they want to participate in, she said.

“I love doing community service and the fraternity feel,” Joseph said. “I’m really glad I decided to do it.”

Young said she agrees.

“I’m president now, so I know a lot more people than I ever would’ve if I wouldn’t have joined the fraternity,” she said.