By Lauren Matheny, Staff Writer
Gamma Phi Beta’s new philanthropy week, “Building Strong Girls,” began Monday.
The week’s events will benefit Girls on the Run and Camp Fire USA, organizations dedicated to helping young women.
“We are excited about this new approach to our philanthropy week because everyone on campus knows a young girl who needs a strong role model,” said Sarah Beth White, chairwoman of the week’s events. “It’s amazing that we get to work with other Greek organizations through their philanthropies.
“All of the campus sororities empower women, and we are so excited to merge that with our values of bringing confidence and health to empower the lives of young girls.”
The week’s events draw focus to the sorority’s national foundations.
Girls on the Run is a 5k training program for young women designed to promote health and confidence.
Camp Fire USA is a national program focused on helping children prepare for life by building confidence through a connection with nature.
Jenni McMichael, Gamma Phi Beta’s chairwoman of philanthropy, said the sorority is committed to showing how their philanthropy is linked to those of the other sorority houses on campus.
“Building healthy habits and confidence in childhood helps girls for their entire life,” McMichael said. “That’s what our philanthropy is all about.”
Monday’s Kickoff in the University Center started off the week with a carnival to get the word out about the week’s events, spread information on the two foundations, and make connections with other campus organizations.
The sorority will host a Zumba class today at the Gamma Phi Beta house, promoting lifelong fitness and supporting Alpha Phi’s philanthropy of women’s heart health.
The sorority will teach a self-defense class Thursday, empowering women against domestic violence in a nod to Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropy.
Gamma Phi is scheduled to host a goodie bag-making party Friday for Children’s Miracle Network, the national philanthropy of Phi Mu.
The week will end with the annual Pancake Palooza, where students can pay $5 for unlimited pancakes while enjoying live music. This is scheduled for Saturday at the Gamma Phi Beta house. The featured flavor this year will be pumpkin spice, and a gluten-free option will be available for the first time.
The sorority will keep track of participation of the other Greek organizations on campus throughout the week.
Whichever organization has the most members in attendance at events during the week will receive a portion of the proceeds from Pancake Palooza to benefit their philanthropy.
“These events are open to everyone across the campus,” McMichael said. “Building strong girls is something that everyone can support.”
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