Zander, a 7-year old diagnosed with a blood disorder, is an avid Harry Potter fan and loves anything that correlates with the wizarding world. Lyla, 3, a histiocytosis (an autoimmume disorder) patient, has the same passion for Disney Princesses Cinderella, Snow White and Ariel. Zander and Lyla’s dreams will soon come true because of donations raised by the University of Idaho Greek Community and the Idaho Make-A-Wish Foundation. A total of $10,000 will be donated toward making Zander’s and Lyla’s theme park dreams come true in Orlando, Fla. Zander will attend the Harry Potter World of Wizardry Exhibit while Lyla visits Cinderella’s Castle.
Make-A-Wish is a national organization that grants the wishes of children suffering from life-threatening medical conditions.This is the second year the Idaho Make-A-Wish Foundation has collaborated with Matt Kurz, director of fraternity and sorority life.
Even if the $10,000 goal is not met through philanthropic services, Greek housing will cover the remaining amount. A large-scale fundraiser selling wristbands and T-shirts will begin next semester.
“Whether they raise $10 or $10,000, they are adopting these kids,” Kurz said. “Zander and Lyla will have their wishes granted by the Greek community — that’s a guarantee.”
According to Kurz, the chapter that raises the most money for the adopted children will host a going-away party. Since Zander and Lyla have Florida wishes, the celebration will be Disney-themed.
“The wish party is sort of a send-off, but mostly a celebration that their wish was granted,” Kurz said.”Sigma Chi hosted a disco party after raising the most money last year.”
Last spring, Kurz was approached by the Idaho Make-A-Wish Foundation, then took that to the fraternities and sororities of UI. The Greek community voluntarily agreed to make the two local wishes come true.
“Last year we said ‘Let’s really get behind it’ and they were absolutely all for it and agreed,” Kurz said. “The vote was unanimous.”
Fraternities and sororities are sparking a friendly rivalry in order to meet the $10,000 goal. Fraternities have taken the liberty of raising funds for Zander while sororities are bringing in money for Lyla. They have raised $900 with the help of Greek Value Week, which is held annually. Kurz stressed the importance of giving back to the community.
“This is a great chance for them to really give back to local Moscow members,” Kurz said. “I hope we can keep this local involvement going.”