The issue: Although it was controversial, Delta Tau Delta’s Goldfish Party 2009 brought attention to the fraternity and the cause it represented.

Our view: Other organizations should take a cue from the Greeks and come up with unique ways to raise money or awareness for causes.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that members of the Western community are throwing around less money these days.

With tuition gobbling up student dollars and a lack of raises lightening the pocketbook of faculty and staff members, it seems every Hilltopper is looking to save their money instead of spend it.

At the same time, this financial crunch has increased the need for campus organizations to develop fundraising strategies that are both successful and beneficial to campus.

Unfortunately, the task of collecting pocket change from arguably society’s stingiest demographic has only gotten tougher during the past year.

The Herald believes students still want to donate their money to worthwhile causes.

The key for any organization is to realize they’re dealing with a generation of students who value instant gratification.

That means developing unique fundraisers that offer donors more “bang for their buck.”

Events such as the annual Greek Fight Night boxing tournament and Alpha Psi Omega’s Gender Bender are prime examples of fundraisers that provide their benefactors with extra incentive to get involved.

That isn’t to say that every fundraiser has to put on a show for those who contribute.

But offering participants a new and exciting reward for their involvement goes a long way toward attracting their support.

Campus organizations must also realize they’re competing against hundreds of other groups for funds, support and involvement.

Even when philanthropy isn’t involved, the Herald feels confident that the Western community will look to get involved with club fundraisers that stand out from the pack.

So, not only will bake sales and car washes not cut it financially, they’ve been done so many times that students are no longer receptive to them.

Furthermore, what student would pay cash for a cookie when they have meal plans?

The simple fact is that the traditional approaches to raising money are no longer viable options during these tough economic times.

The Herald isn’t saying groups have to eat a goldfish to help support their cause.

But it wouldn’t hurt.

This editorial represents the majority opinion of the Herald’s 10-member editorial board.