Beta Sigma Phi is the largest women's organization of its kind in the
world, with more than 200,000 members in over 20 countries.
Beta Sigma Phi has been recognized internationally for its philanthropic
work, but the main goal of the organization is life, learning and friendship
for its members. Begun in 1931 in the midst of the Depression by Walter
W. Ross, Beta Sigma Phi was originally designed to provide an outlet for
women, who, in those hard financial times, could not attend college and
were obliged to stay home and support their families. Walter Ross
provided these women with a program of cultural study so they could
have an opportunity for intellectual and social growth.
Since that time, Beta Sigma Phi has grown from a small social and
cultural group into an international sorority that is proud to call women,
like U.S. First Ladies Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barbara Bush, sisters.
Members devote much time to service -- so much that there is hardly a
charitable, health or cultural group in existence today that has not been
assisted in some way by Beta Sigma Phi.
A recent survey of the membership revealed that chapters give between
200-300,000 hours of time each year to charitable causes and raise
between $1-2 million for these causes annually.
Internationally, chapters have created several special funds to which they
contribute. These include the International Endowment Fund, which has
donated more than $2 million to health research groups, homes for
underprivileged children, and many other causes; a college scholarship
fund for members, their children and grandchildren; and the Disaster
Relief Fund, which is distributed to members struck by natural disasters.
Members are dedicated to service, but cultural and social activities are
also important activities. Each year, members organize and study a
variety of programs that enhance cultural understanding. Members also
plan socials for themselves, their families and their communities.
Visit Beta Sigma Phi International Web site
Rekindle the Torch of Friendship