Chi Omega's 58th Annual Songfest

For the past 58 years, the Epsilon Delta chapter of Chi Omega here at the University of Southern Mississippi has raised thousands of dollars for the Make A Wish Foundation. The Make A Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses in order to provide them with strength and joy in their time of need. The ladies of Chi Omega take our philanthropy very seriously. We begin preparation for Songfest months prior to the event. Last year, my first year as a Chi Omega, we were able to raise $19,000 for the foundation. This money allowed us to grant two very special wishes to children in the Hattiesburg area. We were able to send a young girl, Haven, to New York City on a shopping spree. In addition, we presented a young boy with the horse of his dreams.

This year, Songfest took place on November 10. Our goal this year was $25,000. Through raising money in the Hattiesburg area and selling raffle tickets, we were able to raise a final amount of $26,000. We were extremely proud of our efforts because we know this money will be very helpful in granting wishes to sick children.

The night of Songfest began with performances by half of the greek organizations on campus. Each sorority and fraternity either sings a Christmas song, or rewrites a popular song with Christmas lyrics. Some even incorporate choreographed dancing. After that half performs, there is a ten minute intermission during which guests can purchase raffle tickets and socialize. The intermission entertainment this year was provided by students from a school in McComb, Mississippi. After intermission, the remaining greek organizations performed. To finish the show, Chi Omega performed three special Christmas songs and awards were given out to the winners. The night concluded with the award to "Most Spirited" given out to the organization whose performance was best according to our special guest judge, a Make A Wish child from the area.

Visit the Make A Wish Foundation at http://www.wish.org/ for more information or to learn how to get involved!