Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute fraternity supports food security while strengthening brotherhood bonds

TROY, NY – The Nu Theta Chapter of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute volunteered at the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York in Albany, demonstrating the organization's commitment to community service while providing meaningful bonding opportunities for chapter members.

Thomas Tang, Vice President of Community Impact, led the volunteer effort where brothers were tasked with identifying produce and vegetables that remained in good condition after being donated to the food bank. The work directly supports the food bank's mission of providing fresh, quality food to individuals and families in need throughout northeastern New York.

"This event benefitted the community and our brotherhood by ensuring that people in need got clean, fresh fruit and vegetables to eat and helped our brothers bond together by working alongside each other and having fun while achieving our task," said Tang.

The volunteer experience provided both community impact and personal development opportunities for chapter members. Tang noted that the work served as "a nice break from school and a good bonding activity," highlighting how Phi Mu Delta's service initiatives contribute to both community welfare and brotherhood development.

While the volunteer work went smoothly overall, the experience provided some unexpected learning moments. Tang humorously recalled that they " encountered some rotting cucumbers that exploded in our faces when we tried to throw them out. Next time we will make sure to try to point the openings of the packages away from us."

The chapter is building on this successful volunteer experience by expanding outreach efforts. "We will (and have) already made a post on Instagram, and will try to encourage other brothers and non-members to come with us," Tang explained, demonstrating the chapter's commitment to growing their community impact while introducing others to Phi Mu Delta's service mission.

Founded in 1918, Phi Mu Delta Fraternity operates under three core values: Democracy, Service, and Brotherhood. The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York serves 23 counties, providing food and grocery products to food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other charitable feeding programs throughout the region.