In 1936, at the urging of blind member Ruth Billow, Delta Gammas adopted Sight Conservation and Aid to the Blind as an international project. Delta Gamma's work for the visually impaired became unique among philanthropies as members answered the needs within their own communities as well as on the international scene.
Scholarships were added to the Grants and Loans program in 1957. Approximately $150,000 is awarded annual scholarships, fellowships, and loans to recognize and assist outstanding members. The Ruth Billow Memorial Fund provides financial aid to visually impaired members and educational grants to those members pursuing careers in services to the visually impaired.
In recent years, the scope of the Foundation has expanded to include a wellness program, Well Aware; a career networking system, Cable Connection; and educational programming and leadership training. In 1990, the Delta Gamma Foundation acquired Art of the Eye, and educational exhibit created by professional artists who are visually impaired.
The Beta Zeta chapter of Delta Gamma supports this international foundation on the local front. Beta Zeta sponsors various service events including the annual Swim for Diabetes. This event involves members of the Denison Community while raising money for Diabetes research and insulin. This is important due to the fact that Diabetes is the number one cause of blindness.
Beta Zeta also sponsors an annual Spaghetti Dinner. This year, the event was held at St. Paul's Church in Newark, OH. The community enjoyed a wonderful pasta dinner prepared by the DGs. Proceeds from this benefit went to Service for Sight.
Beta Zeta has also brought back Anchor Splash with much success.
Back to the home page