Dodge for a Cause



On April 20th, approximately 250 students from the University of New Hampshire came out to show their support for children and youth with autism by participating in a dodge-ball tournament to benefit The Birchtree Center.  The Tau chapter of Alpha Xi Delta organized the event in celebration Autism Awareness Month.

Twenty-three teams participated in the tournament.  After three hours of dodging, pelting, chasing, and cheering on their team-mates, team Pi Kappa Alpha emerged victorious.  Of course, the real winners of the evening were the children and youth with autism served by The Birchtree Center. The event raised over $1,000 to benefit Birchtree’s autism programs!

After the event, the chapter's Philanthropy Chair Freda Katunda, Financial Vice President Kathleen Leahy, and chapter member Erika Swanson visited The Birchtree Center to present their generous donation.  Acting Executive Director Dr. Sandra Pierce-Jordan accepted the contribution on behalf of our students, families, board, and staff.

"The sisters of Alpha Xi Delta enjoyed putting on this event for the kids," said Philanthropy Chair Freda Katunda.  "Though we were tired by the end of the night, we felt great that we could help the kids over at the Birchtree Center. We look forward to many visits come this school year!"

Thanks, Alpha Xi Delta; you are Birchtree heroes!