Students involved with Delta Epsilon Chi have a tough decision every year.

The organization holds a fund-raiser and almost always has questions on whom to donate the money to.

“We had a hard time deciding who we would give the money to,” said Jennifer Hartman, senior marketing major and secretary of Epsilon.

This year, however, several members of Epsilon are familiar with Joplin’s Lafayette House. The organization offers a place to stay for women and children who find themselves in abusive situations.

“We were comfortable supporting them,” Hartman said. “We thought it would be a good idea.”

To raise money, members with Delta held and organized a golf tournament at Carthage Golf Course in early October. Hartman and several others went to dozens of businesses throughout the area seeking sponsorships. At each hole, signs were being sold for $100. In the end, Delta sold 34 signs, which made them available to donate $350 to the Lafayette House. The rest of the money went to supplement costs. A portion of the proceeds went to Epsilon’s general fund.

“They (Lafayette House) were very excited to hear from us about the donation,” Hartman said.

Teddy Brown, community services specialist with the Lafayette House, said donations are critical to the success of the non-profit organization.

“Without the support of the groups that donate money, it would be very difficult to run this agency,” Brown said.

The $350 check will be presented to a Lafayette House representative at 12:15 p.m. during Epsilon’s Oct. 30 meeting in Matthews Hall Room 203.

Lafayette currently has 50 women and children receiving services. On average, the organization helps about 135 women and children per month.

Brown said while all donations are more than appreciated, such as paper products and food, money donations are best.

“A donation of money is wonderful,” Brown said. “It’s nice to have the ability to provide for whatever is needed.”

Participants within Epsilon will also donate to the American Cancer Society.

Although the local recipient of the financial donation changes every year, Hartman said what’s really important is that she and other members with Epsilon are involved with the community and just trying to help.

“I’m proud to be part of this organization,” Hartman said. “It’s a wholesome feeling knowing that you’re providing a need for someone who needs help.”