The annual Theta Chi row-a-thon will be held on April 15 and 16, beginning each day at 6 a.m. and concluding at midnight at Stanislaus State.
The fraternity will take turns rowing a canoe around the campus’ reflecting pond for 18 consecutive hours in its effort to raise funds for asthma awareness.
Last year, Theta Chi raised $800, and donated the funds to Breathe California (with a small portion of funds helping to sponsor a Turlock Youth Soccer League team).
This year, the frat has raised more than $1,300 with an ambitious goal of $2,000.
“We always have two rowers at a time,” said chapter philanthropy chair Jesus Garcia, a Gustine High product who is majoring in business administration with a concentration in accounting and a minor in human resources. “That way it’s not too hard on one person.”
Garcia said there are 26 members in the fraternity, and not always practical to socialize with every member.
“We try to pair people who don’t typically interact with one another,” said Garica. “It’s a great way for them to bond and get to know each other on a deeper level.”
Each pair will row around the pond for an hour, then give way to the next pair, with each duo pulling multiple shifts over the two-day event.
“Swing by and say hello and watch us row around the pond,” said Garcia. “You can make a donation and get some information about asthma.”
A report released last year by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America rated the 100 worst cities in the nation for asthma sufferers. Fresno was rated the ninth-worst city, while Stockton and Sacramento were 41st and 42nd, respectively. Turlock, not large enough to be included in the rankings, is situated almost equidistant between those communities.
The annual row-a-thon honors two past members of the fraternity: John Tooma and Tyler Schripsema.
Tooma died from asthma-related complications in 2003, while Schripsema, once an organizer of the row-a-thon, died in a boating accident in 2018.
To contribute, visit gofundme.com and search on “Row-a-thon: A tribute to John and Tyler."
