Pi Beta Phi: Empowering Women Since 1867
Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women, established in 1867 at Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, is a pioneering organization dedicated to empowering and supporting women. Its mission focuses on providing lifelong enrichment to members while fostering leadership, academic excellence, and community service. Pi Beta Phi remains an influential presence across college campuses and communities worldwide.
A Legacy of Sisterhood
Founded as I.C. Sorosis, Pi Beta Phi has grown significantly over the years, embracing its motto "Friends and Leaders for Life." It was the first national secret college society for women, setting a precedent for gender equality in Greek life. Today, Pi Beta Phi includes over 300 alumnae organizations and nearly 140 collegiate chapters in the United States and Canada, promoting close bonds among women and encouraging personal and intellectual growth.
Core Values
Pi Beta Phi is built on six core values:
- Integrity: High standards of ethics and character are upheld.
- Lifelong Commitment: Members support Pi Beta Phi throughout their lives.
- Honor and Respect: An environment of mutual admiration and respect is fostered.
- Personal and Intellectual Growth: Education and personal development are central to Pi Beta Phi’s mission.
- Philanthropic Service to Others: Members are encouraged to contribute positively to their communities.
- Sincere Friendship: The fraternity promotes genuine camaraderie among members.
Signature Programs and Philanthropy
Pi Beta Phi's dedication to literacy is evident through their Read > Lead > Achieve® initiative. This program provides resources to support reading and writing in schools and communities. The fraternity partners with First Book, which supplies books to children in need, and Champions Are Readers® (CAR), an early literacy program, to improve literacy rates.
Additionally, Pi Beta Phi organizes numerous fundraising events and charitable activities each year to support these philanthropic efforts. Members develop a sense of responsibility and a passion for service, which they carry beyond their college years.
Making a Donation
Supporting Pi Beta Phi’s philanthropic initiatives is a valuable way to invest in women's leadership and community service. Here’s how to donate:
1. Online Donations
Donating online is simple and efficient. Visit Pi Beta Phi’s website to access a secure platform. Navigate to the "Give" section to choose from various giving options. Whether a one-time or recurring contribution, every dollar counts.
2. Mail-In Donations
For those who prefer to send a check, donations can be mailed to Pi Beta Phi Foundation. Refer to the "Ways to Give" page on the Pi Beta Phi website for mailing instructions and appropriate forms. Specify the purpose of your donation for proper allocation.
3. Employer Matching
Many employers offer matching gift programs that can increase the impact of donations. Check with the employer’s human resources department to see if such a program exists and follow the necessary steps to match your contribution.
4. Planned Giving
Including Pi Beta Phi in estate planning through bequests, trusts, or annuities can provide long-term support for the fraternity’s programs. Speak with Pi Beta Phi Foundation staff for more details on planned giving options.
5. Honor and Memorial Gifts
Making a donation in honor or memory of a loved one is a special way to celebrate their life and values. These donations can be recognized with a tribute card sent to the honoree or their family.
6. Corporate Giving
Businesses can support Pi Beta Phi through sponsorships, grants, and in-kind donations. Corporate partnerships offer vital resources for programs and a chance for companies to connect with an organization that values leadership, education, and service.
Staying Connected
Stay connected with Pi Beta Phi to keep up with their latest events, successes, and opportunities. You can find more information directly on their website.
Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women continues to make a significant impact on the lives of women and their communities. Through a commitment to sisterhood, leadership, and service, Pi Beta Phi members aim to improve the world. Supporting Pi Beta Phi contributes to a legacy of empowerment and philanthropy, fostering a brighter future for women everywhere.