Events for Greek Week are in full swing as members of the greek system are working to help raise money for community causes.

This year’s theme is “Getaway,” showcasing the idea of community with an emphasis on unity.

“Greek Week helps greeks here at Iowa State show others the sense of pride and spirit we have not only [as a] community but also the community of Ames,” said Angie Karrer, co-chair of Greek Week and sophomore in pre-business.

Greek Week incorporates events such as the collectable drive and Polar Bear Plunge in an effort to raise money for the community.

Each year, greek houses are paired up for Greek Week. Each house receives a list of possible partners, and sororities serenade the fraternity of their choice. Fraternity houses make their choice and return the serenade, said Karrer, member of Alpha Chi Omega, 301 Lynn Ave.

“One of the major reasons for Greek Week is for fun,” said Jill Cassady, sophomore in early childhood education and member of Alpha Chi Omega. “You get to see what everybody is doing; it’s cool to see everybody unite.”

Participation is not required but is encouraged for members of the greek system.

“During this time, I think everybody likes to go out and participate to show pride for their house and the greek community as a whole,” Karrer said. “We can show the university as well as the Ames community that we’re not only looking out for ourselves but also looking out for the community which we belong to.”

Tournaments for flag football, soccer and wallyball started March 20 and will continue this week for volleyball, arm wrestling, pool, darts, basketball and Ultimate Frisbee.

High school seniors are invited to experience the greek system during Friday night’s “Greek Getaway.” Informational speakers are scheduled to speak in the Memorial Union.

Saturday will be the last day of events. The greek Olympics will include games such as the road race, twister-a-thon, canoe races on Lake LaVerne and a tug-of-war.

People plummeting into the cold waters of Lake LaVerne for the Polar Bear Plunge pay $50 per person and are encouraged to get 10 people per house for the event. Last year, $15,000 was raised for Special Olympics, Karrer said.

During the other fund-raiser, Collectibles, members of the greek community will collect pop cans, pennies and soup labels to give to the Ames community.

Last year, $12,000 was raised for the Ames community and paid for computers and a part-time employee at the Boys and Girls Club of Ames, Karrer said.

The winner of Greek Week will be announced during ceremonies Saturday when trophies and plaques will be awarded.