WAFB Channel 9, Baton Rouge, LA |SLU fraternity lends helping hand

SLU fraternity lends helping hand

HAMMOND, LA (WAFB) - On this Veteran's Day, Americans remember the brave men and women who serve our country every day. This year Veteran's Day is extra special for the brothers of Delta Tau Delta fraternity at Southeastern Louisiana University.

They spent Veteran's Day riding bikes for their annual fundraiser "Delts Do 1,000." This year the money they raise will go to helping a fellow brother, a Navy Seal who just returned from active duty in Afghanistan.

Earlier this year their fellow brother Nick Baham's mother passed away. He's been left with the responsibility of paying for all of the funeral costs. Since Monday night, Baham's fraternity brothers have been riding stationary bikes in Southeastern's student union non-stop.

Students, faculty and staff have been donating money to help them reach their goal of 1,000 miles in only three days. They conclude their challenge Wednesday night. All of the money they raise will be going to help Baham pay for his mother's funeral.

"It's a privilege and honor for our brothers to give back," said Nick Cavaretta, president of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, Epsilon Phi Chapter. "Soldiers not only dedicate their time, but they also risk their lives to fight for our country and for our freedom. This is something Nick has done honorably. This is just our way to say thank you." 

Cavaretta says that Baham is home from Afghanistan, but is in Mississippi for final instructions. He's hoping to be home in Loranger in time for Thanksgiving.

Cavaretta says they'll be doing a final total when the fundraiser wraps ups, and he says it looks like they will reach their 1,000 mile goal. If you would like to donate, contact Cavaretta at Nicholas.Cavaretta@selu.edu.