Lincoln Fraternity Hosts Haunted House Fundraiser
Phi Delta Theta members are raising money to cover medical expenses for a fellow student recovering from a cardiac emergency.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy
Phi Delta Theta in Lincoln is holding its annual Nightmare on R Street haunted house to raise funds for member Brayan Van Meter. The fraternity decided to donate the proceeds after Van Meter suffered a cardiac arrest during a half marathon.
Why it matters
The event provides critical financial assistance to a fraternity brother currently hospitalized in a medically induced coma. By repurposing their yearly event, the organization is supporting the high costs associated with Van Meter's lung and kidney complications.
The fraternity has raised $7,000 as of Wednesday to assist with medical bills. Admission to the two-night event is priced at $10 per person.
The players
Phi Delta Theta
This is an international social fraternity that maintains a local chapter house in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Brayan Van Meter
He is a student and member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity who is currently hospitalized following a medical emergency.
The details
Brayan Van Meter collapsed at mile 11 during a half marathon in Kansas City on Oct. 17. Following a 35-minute period of CPR performed by bystanders and paramedics, he was transported to Saint Luke's Hospital where he remains in a medically induced coma.
Timeline
Oct. 17, 2026: Brayan Van Meter collapsed during a half marathon.
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026: The first night of the fundraiser took place.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026: The second night of the fundraiser took place.
Market Landscape
This fundraiser follows the 13-year tradition of the Nightmare on R Street haunted house in Lincoln. It highlights how local collegiate organizations shift their established operational priorities to leverage existing event infrastructure during urgent personal crises.
Local residents can attend the haunted house at 1545 R Street to contribute to the medical fund. The $10 entry fee directly supports the costs of Van Meter's ongoing care at Saint Luke's Hospital.
The takeaway
This effort demonstrates how established social groups can rapidly mobilize local resources to support members facing unexpected medical emergencies. Implementing such community-led fundraising can significantly alleviate the immediate financial burden of long-term hospital stays.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts by visiting the Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KLKN-TV.
