Need to get rid of that practically new study desk by the end of the semester? Consider selling it – with the greeks.
The Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council will host the first-ever Fredonia Flea Market, an event where the Bradley community is invited to buy and sell items of their choosing, anything from textbooks to furniture.
The idea for the sidewalk sale came at the IFC/Panhel retreat at the beginning of the semester, when newly elected IFC and Panhel council members came together to strengthen ties and communication with the two groups.
President of Panhel Trisha Koors said the retreat was a great soapbox for brainstorming.
“We broke up into smaller groups,” she said. “The philanthropy chairs got talking with one another and before you know it, we got the ball rolling.”
Director of Philanthropy and Service for IFC Alex Oberlin said he thinks the event will be beneficial for everyone, including students that do not reside on greek row.
“We liked this [philanthropy] because the atmosphere would create comradery,” he said. “There’ll be a variety of items to sell that would get thrown out otherwise, so we might as well make use of them.”
University Police will block off Fredonia Avenue down to Institute Place to make room for the flea market, which will take place from 2 to 7 p.m. May 8. The Heuser Hall parking lot will also be used for the event.
Registration fees for greek houses are $25, while a floor in the residence halls may participate for $15. Individuals can also sell their own inventory for a $5 fee.
All students selling items keep whatever profits they make, while registration fees go to Peoria Promise, an initiative to help District 150 students pay for Illinois Central College, and later to Bradley.
Greek house members were notified of the event at chapter meetings, Koors said. Six of the seven sororities have already pledged support. Exact figures for fraternities are pending, she said.
Oberlin said he has also made contact with University President Joanne Glasser during her office hours in March, and she promised to attend.
“She was excited to talk with me about the event and said she will encourage staff and faculty to reach out,” he said.
Koors said registration forms for the Fredonia Flea Market will be available by the end of this week and the entire student body is encouraged to be a part of the cause.
A rain date is scheduled for May 8.
Questions may be directed to IFC/Panhel Council members.
