Alpha Omicron Pi's national philanthropy that we support is the Arthritis Foundation! We support their research to try and find a cure and improved treatment options for arthritis. We are also one of their main contributors for their Juvenile Arthritis sector of the foundation. The money we raise for supports Juvenile Arthritis Power Packs, Juvenile Arthritis Camps, conferences & much more. All local Juvenile Arthritis camps are supported by AOII through fundraising & personal involvement.

On Wednesday, March 27th, we will be co-hosting a Zoom seminar DEI event where we bring in an advocate for the Arthritis Foundation, Carrie Bradshaw. Ms. Bradshaw has congenital hip dysplasia, which she never knew she had until she was 40 years old, and this is what caused her early onset of arthritis. Our hope is that by Ms. Bradshaw sharing her story, she can potentially help someone who is going through health issues and inspire them to be resilient, and encourage inclusion on campus!

Arthritis is an invisible illness because, despite appearing able-bodied, a person with arthritis may not be as able-bodied as they seem. Abilities and limitations may fluctuate from day to day, leading to misunderstandings and altered perceptions from various sources, including society. With this DEI event, I hope that we can have a proper discussion about diseases like this, and increase inclusion on campus.