An important part of brotherhood in Sigma Chi is philanthropy, which includes both service and fund-raising activities. This aspect of fraternity life fits well into Marquette's mission of service. Every semester, each of our brothers performs at least 10 service hours, which he can do by himself or through chapter- or university-sponsored events.

We regularly participate in Adopt-a-Highway cleanups, Marquette's Hunger Clean Up, Make a Difference Day, cookout events, sorority dinner/breakfast events, and individual tutoring, mentoring and outreach programs.

Of all our philanthropy events, Derby Days is undoubtedly the most important of the year. Derby Days began in 1933 at the Alpha Beta chapter at the University of California-Berkeley as a series of skits, and has since evolved into a staple annual event for Sigma Chi chapters across the nation.

In our chapter, the event is primarily a vehicle for competition among the sororities, but anyone is welcome to participate and donate to our causes. During the week, each sorority gains points by donating money, winning activities and stealing derbies from Sigma Chis on the street.

The sorority with the most points at the end of the week earns a cut of our proceeds to donate to a charity of its choosing.