Building Strong Girls

Philanthropy is a core value of sorority life, and at Gamma Phi Beta, that value comes to life through heartfelt service and hands-on involvement. The women of the chapter are proud to partner with Girls on the Run, an organization that promotes physical and mental well-being for young girls through fun, engaging lessons and running-based activities.

Since joining Gamma Phi Beta, Madi Leuer has found her passion for mentorship and service. She was initially drawn to the chapter because of its commitment to empowering girls, a mission that deeply resonated with her. “Girls on the Run stood out to me because of how it focuses on both physical health and emotional growth,” she said. “As someone who believes strongly in supporting the next generation, I knew I wanted to be part of that impact.”

Madi took that passion a step further by becoming a Girls on the Run coach. In that role, she worked directly with elementary-aged girls, guiding them through lessons about confidence, teamwork, goal-setting, and emotional resilience. “Throughout the season, we had so many conversations about how to handle challenges, how to support each other, and how to believe in ourselves,” she shared. “Seeing the girls’ self-confidence grow from the first practice to the final 5K was something I’ll never forget.”

The positive, encouraging environment created by the program also helped build strong bonds between the girls. “They were constantly lifting each other up. I loved being a part of that,” Madi said.

Madi also gained a broader understanding of service during her time in leadership. She previously served as Panhellenic Affairs Vice President for her chapter, where she worked closely with other sorority chapters across campus and learned about their individual philanthropic missions. It was inspiring to hear the personal reasons women are connected to their chapter’s philanthropy,” she said.

In addition to her work within Gamma Phi Beta, Madi participated in Kappa Sigma’s Sweetheart Competition, where she helped fundraise for the fraternity’s philanthropic partner, the Military Hero Campaign. “That experience showed me another side of Greek life — how passionate each chapter is about the causes they support. Kappa Sigma's dedication to veterans was really moving to witness.”

Gamma Phi Beta’s Annual Philanthropy Events

• Moonball (Fall): A volleyball tournament held in the backyard of the Gamma Phi Beta house. The event brings together students, faculty, staff, families, and community members to participate or cheer on the teams. Local businesses help by donating food, raffle items, and monetary contributions. All proceeds go directly to Girls on the Run to support scholarships, supplies, snacks, and other resources for participants.

• Gamma Phi Hop (Spring): A community pancake dinner that raises funds and awareness for the cause. Chapter members serve food and share stories about their involvement with Girls on the Run, while guests enjoy a night of food and philanthropy. Ticket sales and donations from this event also go directly to supporting local programming.

“Both events are fun and meaningful. They bring our community together and remind us why we do what we do — to help girls believe in themselves.”

A Chapter that Serves with Heart

Madi’s journey in Gamma Phi Beta has shaped her into a confident leader, mentor, and advocate for service. Through coaching, fundraising, and building relationships across campus, she has seen firsthand the power of giving back.

“Our chapter doesn’t just talk about service — we live it,” Madi said. “Girls on the Run has impacted not only the girls we serve, but each of us as members. It’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience.”

For Madi and her Gamma Phi Beta sisters, philanthropy is more than an event. It’s a commitment to lifting others up, one girl at a time.