Alpha Phi Gamma and other Greek organizations will recognize domestic violence week today through Wednesday as a part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Events throughout the week by Alpha Phi Gamma include a vigil in downtown DeKalb and a self-defense workshop, which they are co-sponsoring with Delta Sigma Theta and will be put on by representatives of the Kinesiology and Physical Education department.

The sorority will take donations from organizations on campus. In the past, Alpha Phi Gamma has donated to Apna Ghar, a domestic violence shelter.

Domestic violence awareness week is just one of the many philanthropic events NIU’s National Pan-Hellenic Council organizes.

Delta Sigma Theta sorority’s main philanthropy is an annual Halloween bash for children Oct. 29 in DeKalb. The proceeds go to UNAIDS, the United Nations program fighting HIV/AIDS.

Last year, they raised $200 for UNAIDS and anticipate making more this year, said Kelli Nickols, Delta Sigma Theta treasurer.

“This event is our way of promoting a safe environment for kids on Halloween, and since we are a public service organization, it is a good way to provide public service in the community,” Nickols said.

Other organizations’ philanthropies concentrate more on awareness and less on fundraising. This is the case with Alpha Phi Gamma’s philanthropy, which is fighting against domestic violence.

NIU’s Iota Phi Theta fraternity chapter also raised money from its second annual Centaur World Series softball game Sept. 25 at the Anderson Hall softball field.

The chapter sold food, but largely the game was geared toward Greek unity and fun, said Demetrius Harvey, graduate adviser for the fraternity.

The Iotas raised $50 from fundraisers and received a $100 donation from chapter alumni.

For more information, visit www.greeklife.niu.edu.