Student organization raises $30,000 for Alzheimer's research

Elon University’s Sigma Kappa chapter raised more than $30,000 at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Burlington on Sept. 26.  The Sigma Kappa team walked alongside other teams from Alamance County in total raising $73,003.45.

Elon University’s Sigma Kappa chapter raised over $30,000 at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Burlington on Sept. 26. The Sigma Kappa team walked alongside other teams from Alamance County, with the effort raising a total of $73,003.45.

Sigma Kappa members raised more than $30,000 for the effort. 
The Alzheimer’s Association, a nonprofit that funds research, care, and awareness, is not only one of Sigma Kappa’s national philanthropies, but also holds a special place in the hearts of those participating. Sigma Kappa’s Vice President of Philanthropy Elizabeth Worrilow said her motivation for fundraising (individually raised $1,580) became personal when her uncle passed away from Alzheimer’s in April. Megan Moisand, a junior in Sigma Kappa, agreed that her motivation was in the memory of her great grandmother. Her family has flown from Florida to participate in the Walk the past two years.

<strong style=”font-size: 13.9997px;”>Sara Elgart, Sigma Kappa, Kappa Zeta&rsquo;s President and top fundraiser of $1,826.</strong>
​“My mom is also a sister of Sigma Kappa, and she has loved to continue to be a part of our fundraising efforts,” Moisand said. “Having my mom at the walk with me has made the day very special for my family because we understand what this terrible disease can bring to a family.”

<strong style=”font-size: 13.9997px;”>Megan Moisand, right, with her mother, Kelly.&nbsp;</strong>
​In the closing ceremonies, participants from Alamance County shared how the disease affects their lives as family members, caregivers, and as someone who has Alzheimer’s. “The closing ceremonies are really inspiring and put the disease in perspective our members who haven’t been affected,” said Worrilow. 

Elon’s Kappa Zeta chapter finished among the top 50 national fundraising teams and was the second highest among Sigma Kappa chapters. Sigma Kappa Sorority is a Platinum sponsor that pledges $500,000 annaully and this year, is already at $730,000. 

Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. For more information, visit alz.org.

Sigma Kappa Sorority

The purpose of Sigma Kappa Sorority is to provide women lifelong opportunities and support for social, intellectual and spiritual development by bringing women together to positively impact our communities.