Think about your favorite childhood memories, or your favorite moments from college and even special times from this summer. Who was there sharing in those experiences? Most likely, your most cherished memories include the special women in your life.

Friendships with gal pals are beneficial for many reasons: they lower stress levels, provide comfort in times of need and, most importantly, bring happiness to our lives. The unscripted moments of pure joy that you share with your friends make life meaningful.

Loyal and enduring friendships are central to the Kappa Delta experience. That’s why, in 1999, Kappa Delta Sorority created National Women’s Friendship Day. And it was so popular that in 2009, KD expanded it to a month-long celebration. Now, women celebrate International Women’s Friendship Month throughout September.

IWFM is celebrated across the country by individuals, women’s groups, companies, retail businesses and others. All women are encouraged to participate!

From heartfelt cards, laughter-filled phone calls, spa days, and cozy luncheons, there are lots of ways to celebrate. Acts of kindness also shine, adding a touch of selfless service for the women who mean the most to you.

Kappa Delta created International Women’s Friendship Month to acknowledge the importance of friendship among women. We want to encourage you to take time to show your appreciation for the support and encouragement your friends provide. We hope you’ll develop and nurture your friendships with other women throughout the month of September.

Need some ideas on how to celebrate? Here are a few you can try:

• Send a friend a care package filled with her favorite goodies.
• Send cookies and a note to other Panhellenic chapters on your campus.
• Plan a road trip to visit a friend who lives in a different city.
• Call an empowering woman in your family and tell her you appreciate her!
• Sign up with a friend for a dance or workout class.
• Host a sisterhood event where you make a cool craft or recipe.
• Grab a friend and spend the day volunteering at a women’s organization.
• Send a “thinking of you” text to a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. Make plans to catch up!
• Have an old-school sleepover complete with favorite movies, throwback songs and popcorn!
• Tell a friend why you are thankful you have her in your life!

To celebrate this year, Kappa Delta is celebrating by telling 31 Stories of Friendship on social media to remind us of the unique connections that enrich our lives. Every day in September, check out our Instagram to see stories of unique friendships and why those friendships are so important.

Share how you are celebrating your friendships on social media with #IWFM.