by Mandi Kane
Daily Lobo
One UNM group will do anything for a good cause. Three members of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sprawled on two large couches in the chilly morning Tuesday and settled in for an 80-hour stay.
Pi Kappa Phi launched its second annual couch-a-thon at 8 a.m. in Smith Plaza and it will continue until Friday at 5 p.m. During that time, at least one member will be sitting on a couch in an attempt to collect money for the fraternity's national philanthropy, Push America.
"We are trying to raise money and awareness for people with disabilities," said Brandon Kauffman, president of the fraternity.
He said the event raised about $750 last year, and the fraternity has a goal of raising $1,000 this year. Members are planning to raise the money from donations from passers-by.
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While the couch-a-thon has been a lot of work, and is sure to be uncomfortable, members say they will make the experience fun.
"I am excited," said Raymond Cook, a member of Pi Kappa Phi. "It's fun and a bonding experience for everyone."
Scott Watson, another member of the fraternity said he agreed and when collections dwindle at night, the brothers entertain each other.
"We play Frisbee and football out here and just hang out," Watson said.
Cook said he admitted it is difficult sitting on the couch in such cold weather, but it's worth it.
"There are more challenges during the winter," he said. "It shows our dedication, and when people come out here at night, it shows the commitment (the fraternity) has."
The fraternity has divided the 80-hour period into shifts based on members' class and work schedules.
"Everyone has been doing their share," Watson said. "Everyone has been really good about participation."
Push America, a nonprofit organization benefiting the disabled, builds and funds facilities such as camps for those with disabilities, makes places more accessible and donates adaptive playground equipment for disabled children.
A disabled UNM community member, who did not want his name used, said he was impressed with the effort the fraternity was putting into helping others.
"The world needs to understand charity," he said. "There is no dignity in a handout, but there is dignity in a hand up."
Kauffman said Pi Kappa Phi would play host to an "empathy dinner" sometime this month. Diners will be given a disability for the night while fraternity members cater to the guests' needs.
Members of the chapter will also participate in the "Journey of Hope," a cross-country bike ride from San Francisco, Calif. to Washington D.C. for Push America this summer.
As for now, the men are curled up on the couch relying on blankets for warmth.
So what if one of the members has to use the bathroom during their shift?
"They have to hold it," Watson said.
