Philanthropic events are great, but sometimes it's hard to get students to take time out of their schedules to help others less fortunate. St. Elmo Hall fraternity had an ingenious solution to this problem: They hosted a huge kickball tournament in order to raise money for the Charlottesville-based Henry Mitchell Hope House.
According to the Henry Mitchell Hope House's Web site, the House provides temporary shelter for the homeless. In addition to shelter, the House assists with job training, budget and home management workshops, and provides affordable housing for moderate or low-income families. Many fraternities and sororities participate in the kickball tournament each year and look forward to it all spring.
Students said once they get involved, they want to participate in the kickball tournament every year. The tournament is unlike many philanthropic events because it incorporates a laid-back party atmosphere with a competitive sport. Kickball is also popular because it reminds people of those halcyon days on the elementary school playground.
"I decided to do it because I participated last year and it was one of my favorite events at U.Va.," second-year College student Kelly Gordon said. "Everyone comes out, gets really into it, and it's one of the few times you get to see many different people you know in a competitive atmosphere."
Competition is tough at the tournament, and teams get really fired up in closely contested games. This year, with only three innings per game, students had to shine early on and score in the first couple innings -- otherwise, the tournament was over for them.
"I was a little disappointed that there were only three innings per game and it was in bracket form rather than round-robin play," fourth-year College student Jodi Paci said. "So if you lose in the first round, you're out."
Round robin or bracket form, the kickball tournament was a success. St. Elmo Hall raised over $3,500 for a great cause in the Charlottesville community, and students said they had fun kicking the ball around.
"I love kickball a little too much, and playing to help out people in need makes it even better," Paci said.
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