Since 2022, the young women of Alpha Xi Delta – Kappa Beta Chapter at Texas Tech University have shown exceptional dedication to supporting foster families in the Lubbock community through their partnership with Upbring Foster In Texas (FIT). These efforts reflect the values and traits Alpha Xi Delta instills in its sisters, like leadership, service to others and helping the less fortunate.
To date, these remarkable sorority sisters have raised nearly $22,000 to help advance Upbring’s mission. Their two major fundraising efforts—a fall basketball tournament and Backyard Bayou Crawfish Boil—have become pillars of the chapter’s philanthropic calendar. In addition, the sorority members partner with local restaurants and boutiques who donate a portion of their sales in support of Upbring, giving the Lubbock community a chance to join in supporting this vital cause. Alpha Xi Delta members also host school supply drives, collect hygiene products, and volunteer at Upbring’s annual Lubbock Spring Gala and at donor dinners.
“Alpha Xi is a group of amazing young women who generously give of themselves to ensure that foster children and families have the resources they need to thrive,” said Monica Casey, Area Director for FIT – Lubbock. “I cannot express enough how grateful we are for their continued support.”
Supporting children and teens in foster care is Alpha Xi Delta’s national philanthropic focus, through its Kindly Hearts Initiative. The sorority’s hands-on efforts in the Lubbock community began in 2021 when then-chapter president Madalyn Raymond selected Upbring as Alpha Xi Delta’s local philanthropy, further strengthening their commitment to this cause.
“Upbring and Alpha Xi Delta share a passion for making a difference, which is why we are so grateful for this partnership,” said Madalyn. “We recognize the vast need to support children in foster care and chose to use our platform as sorority women to affect change.”
Current Chapter President Gwendolyn Shepherd added, “I am truly honored to contribute to Upbring and support such an incredible cause.”
Lauren Hughs is Director of Foundation Relations for Upbring and a Texas Tech alum: “Alpha Xi Delta is advancing child wellbeing in amazing ways by sharing the impact that Upbring makes for children across Texas. I am always proud of my university, but especially when its students care about the children Upbring serves.”
Many Alpha Xi Delta sisters, both in Lubbock and nationwide, have personal connections to foster care, which fuels their desire to make a meaningful difference. Pledge member Halli Barker shared, Halli Barker is from Eastland, TX and pledged to Alpha Xi Delta in the fall of 2024. “When I was 10, my parents fostered two brothers. It truly changed my life and outlook on so many things. It feels good to know our sorority is positivity impacting lives.”
Alpha Xi Delta is seeking creative ways to support children in foster care, including a potential 5K for National Adoption Day in November. By expanding their philanthropic efforts, they aim to affect meaningful change in Lubbock and make a lasting difference for children and families.
Does your club or organization want to change the lives of children and families in Texas? To become an Upbring partner, visit Upbring.org/Get-Involved. Learn more about our Foster In Texas program at Upbring.org/FosterInTexas. Click here to learn about our other Lubbock programs.