On behalf of the Epsilon Zeta chapter of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, I would like to ask for your support for our philanthropic event ATO’s 1st ever Gleason Tauathlon, benefiting Team Gleason. Steve Gleason is a former football player for the New Orleans Saints, who was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2011. Gleason decided that he wasn’t going to give in to this disease, so he made it his mission to show that patients can not only live but thrive after diagnosis. In doing so, he hoped to inspire others to do the same. With that in mind, Steve and his wife, Michel, formed “Team Gleason” to help him accomplish those goals and more. Steve Gleason was an ATO during his time at Washington State, which makes our bond with him and his foundation even stronger.

Our previous philanthropic events have garnered crowds large enough to raise $10,640.36 in the spring of 2018, $7,344 in the fall of 2018, and $13,662 in the spring of 2019. We are hoping with your help to continue to grow our efforts in providing successful events raising money and awareness for Team Gleason. This fall, ATO will host the Gleason Tauathlon for three days from November 20 through 22. The event is an “Amazing Race” style event from Tiger Stadium to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The 120+ mile trek takes place along the Mississippi River down River Road. This event gives our brothers the opportunity to not only get some fresh air and show their competitive spirit, but also help Team Gleason at the same time. With a large amount of support, our event aims to raise a significant amount of money --- anywhere from over $10,000 and upwards --- for Team Gleason.