If you’re in need of a sugar rush, Sigma Pi’s philanthropy event will give you just that.

Sigma Pi’s Sip and Savor Springfield event is on April 19 at Veridian Events Center in downtown Springfield from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This event supports Harmony House and The Kitchen’s Rare Breed Youth Services. Tickets are available online for purchase at https://sipsavorspringfield.com/.

Sip and Savor Springfield has been held four times. The event last year was on a Saturday but this year the fraternity moved it back to its previous Thursday date.

Sigma Pi chapter advisor Kent Otto discussed some of the logistical changes of the event.

Sip and Savor events always gather large crowds Photo provided by Kent Otto

Sigma Pi members at Sip and Savor Springfield in 2017. Photo provided by Kent Otto.

“Thursday just seems to be a natural night of the week that works best for people given the type of event it is and type of food it includes,” Otto said.

He said that the event is virtually the same as last year, but that they have expanded on their vendors.

“Last year was the first time we introduced more than just sweet treats,” Otto said.

While in years past they have had vendors give out beer, wine and coffee, Otto said they have expanded their beverage section more. Last year Chick-Fil-A gave out lemonade and tea, and another vendor gave out hot teas. Having a larger variety of vendors helps expand the interest in the event.

This Greek event, he said, is a bit different than other events Greek organizations host.

“The most significant difference between this event and other Greek events is that we really focus on marketing this to the greater Springfield community rather than just as a campus event,” Otto said.

Their goal for Sip and Savor Springfield is to raise $8,500.

“$8,500 has been our target number because in the last three years that’s the most we made. We’re always wanting to exceed that,” Otto said.

Having a goal for the event is encouraging to chapter members. Member Zach Anderson is passionate about the organization reaching this goal.

“We have a record of receiving large amounts of donation money and each year is like a motivation to keep pushing for more and more,” said Anderson.

He believes that it serves as a connection point between him and the Springfield area.

“[Sip and Savor Springfield] gives me a chance to interact with the community in a way that creates joy and security,” said Anderson.

He also sees how the event allows for the fraternity to assist their non-profit organizations by raising awareness and the funds needed for them to operate.

“[Sip and Savor Springfield] helps develop our brand and service into something that people can appreciate and benefit from,” said Anderson.

Otto said that they are still open to new vendors or restaurants that want to come out and support their philanthropies. They are also open to sponsors for the event. If you’re interested head to the Sip and Savor Springfield website (listed above) to get in contact.

You can also purchase tickets online. General admission tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information on different tickets and add-ons for the event you can check out their event page under “tickets.”

Article written by Taylor Perkins