A UTM has set a goal to raise at least $15,000 for the Weakley County Chapter of the American Red Cross. Kappa Alpha Psi chose the agency to receive funds derived from two special projects a Christmas gala this semester and a play to be presented throughout the county in April.

“We were looking for a local charity to work with and we thought the Red Cross had a greater need for help,” said Lt. Darrell Simmons, of the Department of Public Safety and fraternity adviser. “We want to build up reserves for the Red Cross for Weakley County residents.”

Celeste Taylor, American Red Cross Weakley County Chapter chairman, said, “We want the fraternity members to know how much we appreciate them because the Red Cross depends solely on donations. Without these groups, there would be no Red Cross in Weakley County.”

Taylor said funds are used for disaster relief and to meet emergency needs of Weakley County residents, such as those resulting from house fires and severe storms.

On Dec. 16, the fraternity will sponsor a black-tie gala at the National Guard Armory in Martin. The cost is $35 a person and $70 for couples. Hors d’oeuvres will be served throughout the evening along with beverages. A variety of music will be offered, including country, soul, rock, easy listening and karaoke.

All proceeds and donations go to the local Red Cross chapter.

Checks may be made to the Weakley County chapter of the American Red Cross.