Simpson’s national service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, has shown a vast improvement in attracting new members, especially with this spring’s recent initiation.

“We added a personal touch to recruiting this year,” said junior Andrea Monroe, president of APO. “We did such things like putting up signs, but we also thought of names of people who would be wonderful members.”

Recruiting was mainly done by increasing awareness about the purpose of the organization, according to Jason Luedtke, faculty administrative advisor. “It’s a reflection of the efforts of current members,” said Luedtke,. “The APO members got the word out and people responded.”

Alpha Phi Omega initiated 22 new members into their fraternity this year. The membership status previous to initiation was 17 bringing total current membership to 39.

“Even though it’s a fraternity/sorority it’s not selective,” said Monroe. “It’s open to everyone and recruitment will happen again next fall.”

Some of the projects that APO participates in are the annual blood drive that is held each semester and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk, which the members raise money and also participate in.

APO’s influence is also seen in other on- and off-campus events. APO hosts Game Night that is held in Brenton Student Center, and the members also have an event where they ice skate with children who come from homes impacted by domestic abuse.

APO allows its members to interact with many different types of people and allows them to give something back to the community.

“I enjoy being a part of APO for the community aspect,” said Luedtke. “It gives you a good feeling to help your fellow human beings, and I think that’s why anyone joins.”

“We want people to know that service projects are available to the public,” said Monroe. “We encourage anyone to help us with our service projects.”

APO is in the process of undergoing changes within the fraternity, and the current members are largely to thank for their work to give APO a facelift.

“Recruiting was a key first step,” said Luedtke. “It takes sacrifice and talent of students to get a real change.”

With more members, Luedtke says he feels the group can take things to a new level with what they are able to do. “You’re always trying more ideas to appeal to more people, and you’re always looking for new ideas.”

“Everyone’s ideas are embraced,” Luedtke said. “We’re always actively looking for new ways to service the community in any way possible.”