ORONO – In 2002, six people were raped at the University of Maine. In 2003, seven. In 2004, nine. That’s why the UMaine chapter of the fraternity Beta Theta Pi is doing something about it. And the brothers need the community’s help.

Starting at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, and ending at 6 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, 45 brothers of the Beta Eta chapter of Beta Theta Pi, along with fellow students and faculty representing other UMaine organizations, will participate in the 13th annual Beta Sleep Out to benefit Rape Response Services of Bangor. The event will raise money for rape prevention education and spur awareness of the issue throughout the community.

Rape Response Services provides crisis intervention, support groups and community education in Penobscot and Piscataquis counties.

The organization’s efforts are essential in preventing rape and counseling those affected by the crime, say fraternity members.

Last year’s Beta Sleep Out, held in January, raised some $1,000 for the cause and attracted more than 300 individuals.

On Feb. 17, participants will camp on the front lawn of the Beta house, a large red building located next to Hancock Hall on College Avenue. Those involved construct their own shelter from cardboard boxes and various pieces of wood.

A bonfire burns all night as the attendees attempt to stay warm in the freezing temperatures. By morning, despite frozen fingers and runny noses, the brothers are proud of the small sacrifice they have made to fight a large community problem. Also on Saturday morning, tickets will be drawn for raffle prizes – the avenue through which most funds are raised.

Beta Theta Pi is seeking to surpass the money raised by last year’s event by a substantial amount. However, it is only through the community’s help that it can accomplish this.

The brothers hope individuals, companies and other groups, who are a part of this community just like the victims affected by rape, may find it worthwhile to help the cause through monetary donations or contributions of items to be used as raffle prizes. Raffle tickets will be sold throughout the 12-hour period. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six.

All members of the community are invited to attend. Refreshments are available free of charge and speakers will address the rape issue and its impact on the community.

Beta will welcome local experts to speak at the event.

Rape Response Services executive director Kathy Walker said the service was honored to again receive the funds donated to the event.

“This annual sleep out provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about sexual assault and the services provided by this agency,” Walker said. “The commitment of the brothers and other community members is outstanding, generating extensive media coverage for both organizations.”

Rape Response Services provides a 24-hour hotline for those on campus and throughout Penobscot and Piscataquis counties who are affected by sexual assault. Fifty-five assaults were reported to the agency during the past 12 months, “fewer than in previous years, but still far too many,” Walker said, adding that most incidences are never reported to law enforcement agencies because of victim-blaming that continues to occur in the communities.

“Beta is trying to reduce these numbers and to give a voice to the victims, and we are very appreciative of these efforts,” Walker said.

To obtain information, to make a donation of money or prize material to the sleep out, or to purchase raffle tickets, call Andrew Knapp at 581-8323. If no answer, leave a message and a contact phone number. Or write to 12 Munson Road, Orono 04469, or e-mail andrew.knapp@umit.maine.edu.

Andrew Knapp is the public relations-philanthropy chairman for Beta Eta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi.