The Epsilon Sigma chapter of Gamma Phi Beta devotes its time to their international philanthropy, Campfire U.S.A., and two local philanthropies, Habitat for Humanity and Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) classes. This semester, the chapter will have two events. The sisters of Epsilon Sigma's week-long philanthropy events benefitting Campfire U.S.A. is held in the fall semester.
Gamma Phi Betas Vision:
The vision of Gamma Phi Beta is...
...to be recognized among peer associations as a premier women's organization exhibited by:
- developing campus and community volunteers and leaders
- providing innovative programming which addresses issues relevant to women and society
- strengthening our resources, and
- managing the organization through volunteerism.
Gamma Phi Beta has a long history of outstanding philanthropic and community service. As an organization committed to women, we envision a community in which every girl and woman has the resiliency necessary to advance her own life and the lives of others. Our philanthropic activities aim to provide experiences and resources that build spiritual, mental and social resiliency in girls. Some philanthropic projects are fundraisers and others involve service. Many of our chapters do both while focusing as much as possible on the Sorority's international philanthropy, camping for girls.
CampFire USA
Camp Fire USA is one of the nation's leading not-for-profit youth development organizations, serving over 650,000 participants annually. Founded in 1910 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, Camp Fire USA provides all-inclusive, coeducational programs in hundreds of communities across the United States. Since 2002 Gamma Phi Beta has had a collaborative relationship with Camp Fire USA in order to support our traditional philanthropy of Camping for Girls
By design, Camp Fire's programs, including small group experiences, after-school programs, camping and environmental education, child care and service learning, build confidence in younger children and provide hands-on, youth-driven leadership experiences for older youth. As part of this collaborative relationship Gamma Phi Beta chapters throughout North America are able to support Camp Fire Councils in their local communities through volunteer work and by providing financial support for young girls to attend a Camp Fire USA program.
The Epsilon Sigma Chapter at MSU supports Camping for Girls buy raising money at our Crescent Classic Event, Moonlight Soccer. Where teams are formed to play in a late night soccer competition under the stars! Last fall we raised over $4,000 dollars at this event!
Gamma Phi Beta supports camping for a variety of reasons:
Visionary Cause -- While some philanthropy goes out of style, camping for girls adapts to the current needs of society. Recent studies hve shed light on the positive benefits of camping experiences for children at risk. The future is in the hands of today's children.
Diversity -- Camping for girls can be adapted to meet the needs of current societal issues and concerns. Our collegiate and alumnae chapters may choose to support Camp Fire USA and/or other local camps that deal with specific issues, such as an abusive home or a disability.
Local Community Involvement -- Every Gamma Phi Beta member or chapter can become involved in camping for girls. All communities offer camping experiences. Members and chapters may support a wide range of camps and campers with hands-on service or monetary gifts.
Preventative Programming -- Unlike many philanthropic causes that address a problem, camping for girls is a proactive means to prevent problems. The wholesome, nurturing experience of camping for young girls can have a positive impact on lives during crucial formative years.
Women's Issue -- Gamma Phi Beta's focus on camping for girls helps provide more dollars for girls' programs, which have always been under funded compared to camping programs for boys.
Environmental Appreciation -- As our society becomes more urbanized, a camping experience may be the necesary link to nature for young girls. A portion of the Sorority's Philanthropic programs are funded by the Gamma Phi Beta Foundation. The Foundation also provides supplemental funding to enhance a chapter's financial gift to any local camp.
Money to Camping
Gamma Phi Beta donates more than $57,000 to Camp Fire USA and its local councils.
Additional Gamma Phi Beta Supported Philanthropies
In addition to the financial support provided to camps, Gamma Phi Beta chapters in North America donated $58,865 to other chartiable causes.
Examples of Charities Supported by Gamma Phi Beta Collegiate Chapters