One Million Dollar Milestone Reached

Pi Beta Phi Foundation is excited to share they have officially reached the $1 million  milestone for the Local Impact Grant program! Since 2013, more than 500 Local Impact Grants have been awarded to 216 literacy-focused nonprofits—nominated by Pi Beta Phi chapters and alumnae clubs—helping to expand access to books and literacy resources in their own backyards.  

Local Impact Grants continue to provide chapters and clubs with the opportunity to support organizations close to their hearts—whether it’s an education foundation, public library system or national literacy nonprofit with a local presence. Below is just one example of how an alumnae club is making a difference in their community.

The Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club has nominated Reach Out and Read Kansas City for a Local Impact Grant many times over the years, helping build on Pi Phi’s national legacy of promoting literacy. “It’s important for us to stay connected to the community and give where we think it will have the greatest impact,” shares Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club President Susanne (Sudy) Hurst, Arizona Alpha. “We chose this organization because we believe in their mission and have seen its effectiveness in Kansas City.”

Each year, Reach Out and Read Kansas City provides nearly 28,000 low-income children with new, culturally and developmentally appropriate books during well-child visits in partnerships with local clinicians. “The donations the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club has made to Reach Out and Read Kansas City have increased their book-buying power, allowing them to serve more children and families,” says Sudy. “Every time a provider gives a child a new book, along with the message that reading is important and they are loved, our alumnae club is making a difference.” 

Due to the unique nature of the Local Impact Grant Program, there is an opportunity each year to amplify the impact a chapter or club can have by increasing their gifts to their designated recipient. “The first gift we delivered to Reach Out and Read Kansas City in 2014 was just over $4,000—but that money adds up,” explains Sudy. “Now, the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club has donated more than $13,000—and with Pi Beta Phi Foundation matching that—a total of $26,000 has been awarded to Reach Out and Read Kansas City. Whether it’s $40 or $4,000, it makes a difference.” 

To see the full list of Local Impact Grants awarded and the chapters and clubs who have nominated organizations, visit pibetaphi.org/LIG. 

 

Published July 7, 2025