As a member of Delta Phi Epsilon here at SUNY Cortland, our sorority’s philanthropy event is coming up. I want to spread the word and the importance as much as I possibly can.
Delta Phi Epsilon, an international sorority founded in 1917, is not only committed to sisterhood and personal development but also to meaningful service. One of the sorority’s most impactful philanthropic efforts is its long-standing partnership with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation through an initiative known as 65 Roses. This philanthropy is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and hope, with the ultimate goal of supporting those affected by cystic fibrosis (CF) and helping to find a cure.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. It causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus that can clog airways and lead to severe respiratory and digestive problems. It’s a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time, and while treatments have improved significantly, there is still no cure. The name “65 Roses” came from a young child with cystic fibrosis who struggled to pronounce the name of the disease and instead called it “65 Roses.” The phrase stuck and has since become a symbol of the CF community’s fight for awareness and a cure.
Over the decades, members of Dphie have worked to raise money and awareness through various fundraising efforts and educational campaigns on college campuses across North America. The “65 Roses” campaign has become the centerpiece of these efforts, often involving fun and creative events such as charity walks, benefit dinners, rose sales, and social media challenges that engage both members and the broader community.
Every year, here at SUNY Cortland, Dphie hosts a 65 Roses event. This year it is at Greek Peak where all sorority members and their families attend. This is organized by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to raise money for research. These events serve not only to fundraise but also to educate people about CF and show support for individuals and families affected by the disease. We develop close connections with local CF families, creating a personal bond that fuels their passion for the cause. We usually have speakers come in and talk about their experience with CF and how much this philanthropy helps them.
It teaches empathy, leadership, and the importance of standing by those who face lifelong health challenges. Many members go on to continue supporting CF research even after graduation, staying involved with the cause as volunteers, advocates, or donors.
Just a few decades ago, children with CF rarely lived into adulthood. Now, many people with CF live into their 30s, 40s, and beyond, thanks to better treatments and ongoing research. In recent years, the approval of new medications like Trikafta has given many patients dramatically improved lung function and quality of life. These advancements are a direct result of persistent fundraising and advocacy. Delta Phi Epsilon’s 65 Roses philanthropy is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a heartfelt mission to support those affected by cystic fibrosis and help find a cure. Through their passionate involvement, DPhiE sisters are making a lasting difference in the lives of many. Their efforts continue to bring hope to families, raise vital funds for research, and spread awareness about a disease that is still misunderstood by many. Last year we raised over $24,000, if you want to be a part of this cause you can donate to https://dphie.crowdchange.co/31277.