As a Jesuit institution, Loyola attempts to
instill a feeling of responsibility for the community and the
world at large in its students. One hallmark of a Jesuit education
is the dedication of using the gifts of God to better the plight
of others. The idea of being "men for others" naturally
has taken its place among the brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon. The
chapter participates in many different philanthropic events throughout
the scholastic year. These include participation and assisting
in organizing the cities second largest fund-raiser and helping
children at a local elementary school learn to cope with life.
The chapter regularly devotes a significant portion of its time and talents to both the Crescent City Classic and Fall Classic. These events comprise the state's largest organized marathon and the city's second largest fund-raising event. The chapter helps to setup, service, and clean up the events.
As part of Project America, Brothers spend a weekend each year working with Habitat for Humanity, an organization that repairs dilapidated or abandoned houses for use as homes for lower income families. The chapter devotes almost 500 man hours of labor to this project.
The chapter has "adopted" Lusher Academy as a philanthropic endeavor. Chapter members made themselves available to help the local elementary school in various matters. This includes supervising students in the after school program until working parents can retrieve their sons and daughters. The chapter also assists the Parent Teacher Association by providing labor for their annual Crawfish Boil. Brothers meet early to set-up then stay on to serve the food and clean-up afterward.
In light of the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, the brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon have continuously contributed invaluable amounts of time and energy to the rebuilding of New Orleans. SigEp has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity, LUCAP (Loyola University Community Action Program) and several other service institutions to bring the Crescent City back to life. Members work to organize donations, gut and rebuild houses, and as always, inspire others with the Jesuit tradition.
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