Alex Zimmer
Gamma Phi Beta’s philanthropy week, which benefits the PACE Center for Girls, ran over the past week, raising awareness and funds for the sorority’s local and national philanthropies.
The first event was a Chipotle profit share night on Monday, Feb. 11 from 5-9 p.m., in which Chipotle donated a percentage of each sale to “Building Strong Girls” when customers said they were buying to support Gamma Phi Beta.
On Tuesday, a representative from PACE Center for Girls spoke. Gamma Phi also held the Penny Wars to raise money by collecting everyone’s spare change.
Gamma Phi Beta hosted the Moonball kickball tournament on the Intramural Fields on Wed., Feb. 13. Teams ranging in size from eight to 10 players could participate in the tournament for a $50 entry fee. All money raised was donated to the Girls on the Run organization.
On the local level, the Eta Beta chapter of Gamma Phi supports the PACE Center for Girls, a non-profit organization founded in 1985 by Vicki Burke to provide programs for at-risk teen girls.
Their mission is to reduce recidivism rates for teen girls who come into contact with the justice system and give them encouragement and support to achieve scholastic success.
“Being able to work with those girls and seeing the goals they have for themselves is inspiring,” Cora Alleman, Philanthropy Chairwoman for Gamma Phi Beta, said.
On the national level, Gamma Phi Beta works with Girls on the Run, a non-profit organization that encourages the development of self-respect and healthy lifestyles in pre-teen girls.
According to their website, Girls on the Run creates programs that teach girls how to understand themselves, value teamwork, and encourage them to engage in community service initiatives. As part of their dedication to healthy living, Girls on the Run hosts a celebratory 5k run for girls at the completion of their program.
“I love that both our philanthropies add to Building Strong Girls, leading to a strong women community,” Alleman said.
Last year, Gamma Phi raised over $1000 to go towards their philanthropy Girls on the Run. Sororities, fraternities and non-affiliated students are encouraged to participate and donate to help benefit Girls on the Run.
