Every birthday deserves a celebration… and National Beta’s is no exception!
Mark your calendars and get ready to fetch some fun! National Beta Founder’s Day is Friday, October 30, 2026, and this year’s theme is Paws & Serve!
Founder’s Day
Each year, National Beta members across the country celebrate the vision of our founder, Dr. John W. Harris, who established National Beta in 1934 to inspire students through the pillars of achievement, character, leadership, and service. More than 90 years later, that mission continues to guide everything we do.
But unlike most birthdays, Beta celebrates by giving instead of receiving.
Friday, October 30, 2026
Paws & Serve
How it Works
This year‘s Paws & Serve theme reminds us that every act of kindness leaves a lasting impact in our schools and communities. On Founder‘s Day, we invite every Beta club to celebrate by serving others—whether that‘s organizing a service project, collecting donations, volunteering in your community, or simply spreading kindness. No act of service is too big or too small.
Need inspiration? Explore our Service Idea Guide for donation-based, event-based, and activity-based projects. From assembling care packages and collecting school supplies to cleaning up parks or supporting local organizations, there are countless ways to let your club lead by serving others.
Founder’s Day Scavenger Hunt
Get ready to unleash the fun during Founder’s Day Week!
The National Beta Founder’s Day Scavenger Hunt will take place:
Monday, October 26 at 8:00 AM (EST) – Thursday, October 29 at 5:00 PM (EST)
Use game code 1IXYW6 in the GooseChase app to participate.
Founder’s Day Contest
Show us how your club celebrates Paws & Serve!
On Friday, October 30, share photos and videos of your club’s service project on Facebook, Instagram, or X for a chance to win a Beta Shop gift card. If your club ordered this year’s Founder’s Day shirts, be sure to wear them in your photos!
To enter, simply post using #FoundersDay26.
We’ll be highlighting clubs throughout the day and selecting three favorite projects to receive a Beta Shop gift card. Winners will be announced the following week.
Downloadable Assets
2026 Founder’s Day Merchandise
Celebrate in style with exclusive 2026 Founder’s Day t-shirts and trading pins!
Pricing & Information
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T-shirts: $15 each
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Trading Pins: $5 each
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Free shipping on orders of 10 or more t-shirts
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Sizes: Youth Small–4XL
Pre-order Deadline: September 24, 2026
All Founder’s Day merchandise will ship by October 16, 2026. Any items ordered with Founder’s Day shirts will ship together on October 16.
More Opportunities
Take a look at the other opportunities available for Beta members and sponsors.