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Phonathon kicks-off "Leader of the Pack" '98

Date 9/24/1998 12:00 AM | Topic: News

With the theme, "Leader of the Pack," Phonathon '98 will begin with the first pledge during half-time of Luther's football homecoming game on Oct. 17. Calling sessions will take place Nov. 1-19.

"The theme for this year was chosen to convey the idea of leadership throughout the campaign," said director of annual giving, Vicky Donhowe. "The fact that the students involved are volunteering their time, versus other schools who use paid callers, really says a lot about the caliber of Luther students."

Donhowe also said, "the number of volunteers for this year's Phonathon is expected to meet, if not exceed, last year's number of 425 students. This year's student involvement goal is 450."

The objective of Phonathon is to raise money for the annual fund. According to Donhowe, 70 to 75 percent of annual giving is raised by Phonathon.

Organization for Phonathon '98 began last when Phonathon chairs where selected. Chairs are Angie Bentley ('99), Erin Brooks ('99), David Carroll ('99), Heidi Christian ('99), Darrin Dowell ('00), Ellen Kretzschmar ('00), Kari Nordli ('99), Meghan Wilson ('00) and Alyssa Wyse ('00).

Chairperson responsibilities are to recruit ten team captains, attend weekly meetings, participate in the kick-off and parade float and to be present at calling sessions. Team captains then recruit team members to form a group of six.

Carroll has three years of Phonathon experience, with two years as a Phonathon chairperson.

"As a Phonathon caller and chairperson, I've had a lot of fun. The campaign is very worthwhile not only because of the opportunity to help the school, but because callers also get a chance to talk with Luther alumni. It is good to get to know the world beyond Luther," Carroll said.

An estimated 15,000 people will be contacted during Phonathon '98. Individuals listed on the calling list will be contacted by callers with similar majors and extra-curricular interests.

Donhowe said, "To the students involved, the experience can be educational. Students get a chance to speak with alumni within their field of study. Because of the excitement felt by student volunteers, alumni get the feeling of unity and Luther spirit."

Changes from previous Phonathon campaigns include the introduction of a credit card machine to accept credit card donations. Facilities have also been changed. Calling stations have moved from the basement of the CFL to the basement of Olin where 30 calling stations have been added.

Volunteers work in three-hour sessions during which prizes are awarded to callers based on donation amounts attained. Volunteers are given T-shirts and the Phonathon event ends with an appreciation party for volunteers.

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Amy Domaszek
Chips Staff Writer

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