Founded at DePauw University in 1870, Kappa Alpha Theta or Theta was the first sorority constructed out of the model of the male fraternity system. The Gamma Delta chapter of Theta is one of 118 chapters nationally. The entire organization boasts more than 200,000 women who strive for excellence in sisterhood, education and involvement with social issues. The Gamma Delta chapter was founded at UGA in 1937. Its house was originally constructed in 1857 by the Dearing family of Athens who made its fortune in manufacturing. The full Greek Revival temple house contains 12 massive Doric columns and square rooms on either side of a central hallway. It was purchased in disrepair for $5800 in 1938 and is now considered one of the finest specimens of its kind in Georgia. The girls of Kappa Alpha Theta are active members of the UGA community. They are involved in groups like Tate Society, Arch Society, student government and ugaMIRACLE. Additionally, they participate in athletic and cheer squads on campus. The Theta national philanthropy benefits CASA, a group that represents the interests of children in court struggles. Additionally, Theta has raised over $40,000 in the last two years for HERO, an organization that helps children in Georgia affected by HIV/AIDS.