Phi Sigma Kappa has a unique perspective on Pittsburg State’s Oval.
Since noon on Tuesday to noon on Friday, the fraternity will keep jumping on a trampoline to raise money for the Special Olympics. That includes through cold nights and early mornings. Luckily, there has been no rain in recent memory.
“We have a lot of fun at nights, even though it gets pretty cold,” philanthropy chairman John Gilligan said. “Wednesday night is usually the big party night. You see some people stumble through the oval on their way home.”
The trampoline-a-thon is not just restricted to the trampoline. Fraternity members also provide coffee, pizza, grilled hot dogs and other foods to people as they walk by.
“Whatever anyone is willing to give, we’re happy with receiving,” Gilligan said. “Most of the people here are college students, so it’s usually pocket change.
“But we’re raising money for a good cause and creating good memories.”
That doesn’t mean the event is free of tough times. The early morning hours can be the worst time, as the students are cold, bored, and tired.
Gilligan said one year, he fell asleep on a nearby sidewalk at 4 a.m., and woke up to find pine cones outlined around him and people stepping around him to get to class.
The event raises money for the Special Olympics, their national philanthropy, in a couple of ways. Passersby are encouraged to donate as they walk by, but they can also donate an amount to take a turn on the trampoline themselves for however long they wish.
The event has been taking place for eight years. Last year, the fundraiser raised $700. This year, the goal is $1,000, but anything close to last year would be considered a good event.
“We’re a little slower this year,” Gilligan said Wednesday. “But then again, we’ve only been through the first day or so. We still have a ways to go. I think we’re on track for another good year.”
In order to jump on the trampoline, non-members of Phi Sigma Kappa must sign a waiver. Luckily, Gilligan said there has not been an injury or anything else major in the four years he has been a part of the event.
“We’ve had some near misses, as people are doing flips and other tricks have landed near the edge,” Gilligan said. “Fortunately, no one’s fallen off. I can’t say anyone has ever been seriously injured.”
Phi Sigma Kappa has about 28 members.
Andrew Nash can be reached at andrew.nash@morningsun.net or by calling 231-2600 ext. 132.
PITTSBURG —
