Delta Zeta held second annual Clay Classic philanthropy event Saturday

Delta Zeta held its second annual Clay Classic philanthropy event Saturday, Oct. 29.

As a part of its year-round philanthropic work, Delta Zeta put on this non-profit fundraiser to benefit the Starkey Hearing Foundation as well as its two local philanthropies, the Bayou Country Children’s Museum and Bridge to Independence. The event lasted from 10am to 4pm at Tri Parish Sporting Clays in Houma and featured the main clay shooting event as well as a cook-off, which was a new addition to this year’s event. Prizes for the winners were awarded in both areas of the event.

The first ever cook-off competition featured wild game dishes from three categories: land and sea critters, furry friends, and anything but chicken. There will be a winner in each category as well as grand prize winners for overall creativity, taste, and people’s choice. The entries were judged by chefs at the John Folse Culinary Institute. Since the cost was $25 per cook-off entry, the addition of the contest provided tasty foods for the guests as well as bringing in more proceeds to benefit the philanthropies that Delta Zeta supports.

Nationwide, Delta Zeta supports the Starkey Hearing Foundation which helps bring the gift of hearing to those in need both in the United States and abroad. Nationally, Delta Zeta has pledged to raise 5 million dollars in 5 years for the Starkey Hearing Foundation.

Delta Zeta has been partners with The Bayou Country Children’s Museum since its opening in 2014. The museum is a non-profit organization that provides children a unique educational environment that aids in the classroom experience. The goal of the museum is to inspire both students and teachers in the area to be more hands-on.

Delta Zeta’s newest philanthropy, Bridge to Independence, is a program designed for students with intellectual disabilities. It is the only program of its kind in Louisiana certified by the U.S. Department of Education.

Students who partake in the program will be able to enjoy the full college experience at Nicholls with the assistance of peer mentors who are trained in the Nicholls College of Education.

This past year, Delta Zeta of Nicholls has raised over $17,000. As a chapter, they strive to raise more funds every year through various philanthropy events like the Clay Classic. Delta Zeta stands committed to the words within their creed when they pledge, “To those whom my life may touch in slight measure, May I give graciously of what is mine.”