The University of Nevada, Reno's Phi Delta Epsilon Nevada Alpha international medical fraternity was recognized at the ninth annual Healthcare Heroes Awards Sept. 10 at the Peppermill Hotel Casino. The organization was acknowledged for their philanthropy efforts in the northern Nevada non-profit category.

The event was sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and Nevada Business Magazine. Winners of the Healthcare Heroes Awards were chosen by a panel of judges made up of healthcare executives and prominent members of the northern Nevada community. President Marc Johnson and Phi Delta Epsilon members Christopher Carrete and Aaron Greenblat accepted the award.

Phi Delta Epsilon fosters the growth of future physicians around four principles: philanthropy, deity, equity and education. The Nevada Alpha chapter lives by their motto, "Facta Non Verba," or "Deeds Not Words." Since its charter two years ago at the University, the chapter of over 50 young men and women has made significant contributions to children's healthcare through both volunteerism and fundraising. It comes as no surprise that "to promote non-profit group service to the community" is written into the fraternity's values.

The fraternity partners with Renown Children's Hospital, the area's Children's Miracle Network Hospital, to fund the development of children's programs and state-of-the-art equipment. The fraternity has donated countless hours staffing at Children's Miracle Network Hospital events, making cards and blankets for pediatric patients and raising awareness for supporting children's health.

Every year, the chapter hosts "Miracle Madness," a philanthropic dance marathon that draws involvement from the University and the broader Reno community to raise funds and create awareness for Renown Children's Hospital. During their second annual Miracle Madness, Phi Delta Epsilon Nevada Alpha raised over $8,200 and they continue to seek new ways to make a difference. At the start of 2014, the chapter established a partnership with the Nevada Food Bank, sending members to volunteer on a monthly basis to help sort and package donated food products.

For more information about Phi Delta Epsilon, visit http://phidenvalpha.com.