Penn State University Agricultural Greek organizations recently raised $1000 to help a Union County goat milk producer. Members of Delta Theta Sigma, Alpha Zeta, and Alpha Gamma Rho fraternities, and Sigma Alpha sorority, gathered the funds through a Penny War campaign sponsored by AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians. The donation was presented to AgrAbility client Todd Zimmerman.
Penn State’s ag Greek organizations have been participating in the AgrAbility fundraiser for several years. “We have always enjoyed supporting AgrAbility, as we know the hardships of farming,” says Cory Chelko, Chairman of Philanthropy at Delta Theta Sigma, the lead fundraising fraternity of the organizations. “The possibility that a farmer cannot continue his or her passion in agriculture because of a disability is disheartening. We are glad that we can make a difference every year to help farmers who need assistance to continue on.”
Mr. Zimmerman is extremely grateful for the students’ support. “The young people were wonderful. They were friendly and welcoming, and clearly have their hearts in agriculture,” says Mr. Zimmerman.
The Mifflinburg producer sustained a back injury in 1991 while working an off-farm job. As a result of the injury, Mr. Zimmerman developed degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis. The funds donated will be used to purchase swing gates that will help feeding and manure storage chores.
Submitted by: Crystal Smithmyer