PAC WITHIN 1% OF $400,000 GOAL

Welcome to 2011...a new year, a new decade and a new cycle for the Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee.
 
As we ended 2010, the PAC had received $393,000 for the 2009-2010 cycle.  How did we do it?  The facts are:
 
995 different donors contributed to the PAC
56% of contributions came from members of men's fraternities
44% of contributions came from members of women's fraternities and sororities
1 million dollars in pledges and contributions was reached in August 2010
 
Thank you to the 995 donors who continued to believe in the mission and work of the PAC.  We couldn't have reached this goal without you.
 
As I prepared this article, the mid-term elections had ended and the face of Congress had changed once again.  In the final days of that election cycle, the PAC distributed funds to candidates; some won their elections, some did not.  I am proud so say that the PAC's bipartisan approach with an emphasis on Greek affiliation and the need to get the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act passed was a guiding force.
 
But now it is time to move on; to a new cycle of giving and to a look at additional issues that will impact the fraternity and sorority experience.
 
In July 2010, the PAC Board met in Washington DC to develop a strategic plan.  We looked at what had been accomplished over the past 5 years and we decided what needed to be accomplished in the next five years.  The next five years will include a continued focus on education (who is the PAC), communication (keeping donors informed) and fundraising (engaging more donors).  The next big fundraising goal...1.5 million by 2016.  In addition, the PAC will begin to give attention to other issues that affect the fraternity/sorority community; freedom of association, single sex status, mandatory community service and reporting requirements. Our members, chapters and national leaders are increasingly challenged by these issues.  The PAC will be ready to assist with legislation regarding these areas that may emerge in the future.
 
The next PAC Dinner is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12 at the Metropolitan Ballroom at the Liason Hotel in Washington DC.  Seats cost $500.  Many members of Congress have already agreed to be special honorary hosts.  Please plan to buy seats now and attend if you can.  The annual PAC dinner is always an exciting event and an evening full of pride on our fraternity and sorority experience.
 
Our role in these exciting times...to stay involved and remain loyal, consistent donors. The PAC recognizes how difficult it is for you to decide where your discretionary dollars will go.  The Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee is worthy of your contribution.  This Board and future boards will continue to invest your dollars wisely...an investment in the future of the fraternity and sorority experience.
 
Thank you for your support,
Julie
 
Julie Cain Burkhard
President
Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee