The origin of the word philanthropy is Greek and means love for mankind. Community service builds strong character and is a rewarding experience that lasts a lifetime. Serving the common good is something that we are passionate about. Phi Sigma Sigma strives to make a difference not only in the personal lives of our members but also in the community at large.

Since the days of our founding members, Phi Sigma Sigma has always been active in philanthropic endeavors. The Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation was established in 1969 as an extension of the Philanthropy Fund. The Foundation embodies the basic principle of the twin ideals laid down by our Founders years ago, "The brotherhood of man and the alleviation of the world's pain."

We, the ladies of Theta Upsilon Chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma, are involved in many philanthropic activities. The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is our National philanthropy. We support the NKF through donation raised during Rock-A-Thon. This cause is close to our hearts because kidney disease was one of the leading causes of death among women during the time Phi Sigma Sigma was established. Phi Sigs’ commitment and partnership with NKF and medical professionals has helped to bring awareness to the devastating effects of kidney disease and how the illness can be altered or even eliminated.

Phi Sigma Sigma’s Theta Upsilon Chapter: Philanthropy Overview

LeRoy Haynes Center: game nights throughout the semesters including supporting their basketball team and making candy bags for them to enjoy around Halloween.

Agape House: donations given throughout the semesters including clothing, books, monetary donations, etc. We’ve also done clean-ups on the grounds and are currently planning a mural painting.

Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation: monetary donations raising over $2000 in just the past year. This Foundation supports scholarships for Phi Sig women all over the country and in our Canadian chapters, along with supporting our national philanthropy, the National Kidney Foundation.

Philanthropy News:

• The Theta Upsilon Chapter is in the late stages of raising $10,000 for their Neddie Scholorship (Named after Nereyda Iniguezand, a loving member of PSS so passed away in 2005). They plan to award the scholarship out in the Fall semester of 2008.
• PSS supported our sister Gabby de la Cruz with her Senior Project "Lupus Walk" in May 07. PSS helped organize, advertise and work the event. In addition the lasdies also provided donations to the walk.
• In the summer of 2007, three of our women volunteered through ULV’s Summer Service program going all over the West Coast working at camps, homeless shelters, etc. These three women accumulated around 1300 hours volunteering.
• In 2007 our chapter, Theta Upsilon, raised the most money out of 126 Phi Sig chapters around the U.S. and 2 in Canada, to donate to Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation which benefits the National Kidney Foundation.
• PSS was also the proud receipient of the "2007 Service Award." They have help this honor for three straight years.