Greeks clean up city

Armed with shovels, rakes and lawn mowers, members of the University Greek system advanced into West Philadelphia Friday with one intention -- to give something back to their community. Nearly 50 members of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity and the Delta Delta Delta sorority, participated in the joint community clean-up effort. The Tri-Delt and SAM volunteers ventured into the Powelton Village neighborhood of West Philadelphia to rid the streets of garbage, clean a school playground, mow lawns and clip hedges. Nursing junior Eden Houser, who is philanthropy chair for Tri-Delt, said her job is to coordinate activities that are beneficial to the community. "My goal this year is to do both hands-on and fund-raising projects," she said. College senior Benji Goldstein, who organized the event with Houser, said he was impressed with the large turnout. "A little bit of time from a lot of people adds up to a big job done," he said. Kamika and Brianna, third-graders at Powel elementary school, were playing at the park when members of SAM and Tri-Delt arrived. Both girls smiled as the students began to clean the garbage-strewn playground. Other community onlookers were equally appreciative, and many took the time to thank the volunteers. "No matter how insignificant raking leaves may be, we're helping to foster good relations with the Philadelphia community," said College sophomore Jodi Gold. The students' efforts not only improved the aesthetic appearance of this local neighborhood, but also managed to instill a sense of community pride in local residents. "It is nice to be able to help the community considering how lucky we are at Penn," said College sophomore Rachel Kaplinsky. "I'm glad to be giving something back." Hanley Bodek, a Powelton Village neighborhood volunteer, provided the students with the material they needed for the clean-up. "It's a socially responsive volunteer activity," he said. "We all live in West Philadelphia, and we want it to be better."

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