The 2014-2015 academic year has been an active period of public service for the Xi Psi Phi dental fraternity, known as the “ZIPS.” UCSF Iota chapter president Brittany N. Vacura, class of 2017, and philanthropy chair Andrea Ustarez, class of 2016, report that members have organized a variety of events as a way to give back to the community.
In November ZIPs volunteers provided dinner for the families at the Scott Street Ronald McDonald House, donating food, time and culinary talent at the home-away-from-home temporary residence for critically ill children and their families. After the meal the volunteers spent time getting to know the patients and families.
ZIPS volunteers worked with members of the Potrero Hill neighborhood and Friends of the Urban Forest during the year to plant trees in the district, educating residents about their new trees and how to care for them.
In April and May, ZIPS members volunteered at Sunday Streets in the Mission, Dogpatch and Bayview, assisting the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) with traffic control and pedestrian protection for the events, “adopting” two intersections and additionally providing event information and face painting.
“It was a great year for our fraternity with regard to community service” says Vacura, “and the enthusiasm was evident in our 117 active members, many of whom participated.”
Many public service events are planned for 2015-2016, some of which are expected to establish new traditions for the ZIPS.
Incoming philanthropy chair Maria Naanaa, class of 2017, is organizing an event called “Dance Out Diabetes” for September, providing education on diabetes prevention and management while promoting a healthier lifestyle. In addition to music and dancing, dental education and oral health screenings will be offered.
The fraternity’s partnership with Ronald McDonald House is also expected to continue.
Says Vacura: “We look forward to another great year!”
Pictured
Xi Psi Phi, Iota Chapter: scenes from a year of service
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