Alpha Epsilon Phi supports two philanthropies: The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation & Sharsheret.
The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation
EGPAF was founded by Elizabeth Glaser, who was a sister of Alpha Epsilon Phi. Elizabeth Glaser contracted the HIV virus from a blood transfusion she received while giving birth to her daughter Ariel. Elizabeth realized later on that she unknowingly passed the virus to her daughter through breast milk. A couple of years later, she passed the virus to her son Jake in utero. In 1988 her daughter, Ariel, lost her battle against the HIV virus and Elizabeth feared for her son, so she decided to take action against the virus. With the help of her two close friends, Susie Zeegan and Susan DeLaurentis, they were able to create a foundation that would raise money for pediatric HIV/Aids research.
Sharsheret Sharsheret, which symbolizes the connections we make among women, families, and communities facing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. It was founded in November of 2001 by Rochelle Shoretz. She recognized the need to create an organization for breast cancer support for young Jewish women. This organization believes that young women should be able to talk to young survivors and know there is hope for them, as well as making sure that these young women get all the information they need to know about breast cancer. The organization has done a lot since 2001. They have responded to more than 40,000 breast cancer and ovarian cases. They have more than 3,000 supporters and have created 12 national support and educational programs.
As sisters of Alpha Epsilon Phi, we strive to raise as much money as we can for these two great foundations. We all have many reasons why these foundations are important to us. Some because they are a great cause, or some because they have personal connection. If you would like to donate to these wonderful causes through AEPhi Beta Nu Chapter, or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our VP of Finance, at [email protected]