The greek community on Lynn Avenue banded together Sunday, holding a benefit barbecue for the Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

The barbecue was hosted by Phi Kappa Psi with Sigma Alpha Epsilon providing a Slip ‘n Slide and volleyball games.

Greek houses such as Beta Sigma Psi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Kappa Psi and Kappa Alpha Theta contributed to the day’s festivities, helping Alpha Chi Omega recover from the damage caused by a small fire that burned one room.

Kim Kiraly, president of Kappa Alpha Theta and senior in family and consumer science education and studies, said the fundraiser was a great display of the unity of the greek community.

“It was a collaborative effort by all the philanthropy chairs and all the proceeds go to help the Alpha Chi Omega house,” Kiraly said. “It’s been cool to see the community come out and show their support.”

Local support and food was provided by a long list of area businesses, including Hy-Vee, Hometown Foods, Fareway, Sam’s Club, Old Chicago, Culver’s, Papa John’s, Subway and Clarklift of Des Moines.

Abbey Lamm, president of Alpha Chi Omega and junior in marketing, was encouraged by the show of support from greeks and others who have supported the house.

“We’re really thankful for all the support from the community. It’s just been unbelievable how all the houses have come together,” Lamm said. “It’s a really good time to be a greek.”

The turnout was between

200 and 250 people, Kiraly said. The amount raised was undetermined at the time.

Courtney Radcliff, junior in child, adult and family services, said events like this are what the greek community is all about.

“It’s a really good cause and I really want to say I support the Alpha Chi Omega,” Radcliff said.