Pi Kappa Phi

 For 72 hours straight, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pedaled on stationary bicycles from Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in order to raise money for “The Abilities Experience”, a non-profit organization that supports people with disabilities.

               Pi Kappa Phi is the only fraternity to own and operate their own philanthropy on campus. All the donations are used for wheelchair ramps, summer camps, and friendship visits where the members visit a camp with those who have disabilities.

               Members of the chapter volunteered riding the bicycles and switched off to ensure the wheels never stopped moving.  With only water, a towel and conversation the fraternity holds this event every fall semester pedaling from dusk to dawn.

Nathan Cooper, an associate member of the chapter, pedaled for six hours straight.

“People think we are crazy,” Cooper said. “At the end of the day it’s worth it. It’s tiring, but it’s definitely worth it for the cause.”

               The bicycles were set up in the lawn across from Sage Hall, and a tent provided shade for the participants. There was a donation bucket available for people to donate spare change to support the cause.

               Taylor Lindholm, chapter president , believes this event creates a bond among his brothers.

“I believe true brotherhood is built on the bikes,” Lindholm said. “There is no feeling like working hard for something bigger than yourself, and while on those bikes at 3 a.m. you know who your true family is.”

As people walked by the scenery, they noticed the young men looked exhausted but were having a good time as well.  

Elizabeth With, 22, a senior marketing major, was impressed with the chapter’s consistency throughout the night.

“It’s amazing to see people so dedicated to a cause they believe in,” With said.  “I don’t know how they do it.”

Lindholm said the chapter strives to change the way the world views fraternities and people with disabilities. He believes it’s these uncommon opportunities that make the fraternity so unique at UNT.

“We build the leaders of tomorrow by serving people with disabilities today,” Lindholm said.