Phi Beta Lambda Helping the Local Community

There are over 500 clubs and extracurricular organizations on campus at Florida State University, so how do you choose one? Students in Phi Beta Lambda say the decision was easy. Phi Beta Lambda is FSU’s premiere business organization and exists to help students develop professionally and meet future connections for jobs or internships. However, aside from all the benefits derived from its standard business activities students say the community service provides yet another reason to join. Recently, Phi Beta Lambda participated in a weeklong community service project in partnership with March of Dimes, a national foundation dedicated to research for premature babies.

Photo by author

Throughout the week officers and members of Phi Beta Lambda collected funds for March of Dimes in creative fashion. Starting with “Purple Boy,” freshman Yasmel Cortes covered himself in purple glitter to not only attract a larger audience but to raise awareness for prematurity. Many other volunteers from Phi Beta Lambda accompanied Cortes as they all strolled across campus with an 8ft beach ball. The ball’s purpose was to collect signatures, which helped to illustrate the FSU student body’s support of March of Dimes and premature babies. Each signature was priced at one dollar in order to fundraise. Additionally, T-shirts, wristbands, and cupcakes were sold across campus. All items were sporting the purple color scheme to create further support in March of Dimes. Sophomore Ryan Williams commented, “Our recent partnership with March of Dimes to promote Prematurity Awareness Month was very rewarding. Members dedicated hours to raise funds and promote March of Dimes on campus.”

The whole week was without a doubt an extremely noble and generous cause. The organization proved they truly care about the community and focus on more than just their business field. President Yasman Cortes summarized his organization’s efforts, “While FSU PBL is committed to developing competent and resourceful business leaders, we also pride ourselves in our ability and desire to make a difference in our community through service projects.” The organization also has its annual community service project planned for the spring semester so they are far from done!