Mu Beta Phi: A Military Fraternity Changing the Lives of Veterans
Transitioning from military service to civilian life is one of the biggest challenges that veterans face. The structured life in the military is vastly different from the unpredictable nature of civilian life. For many, the transition is difficult, leading to struggles with employment, mental health, and even homelessness. That’s where Mu Beta Phi steps in.
In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Michael G. Harris, the International President of Mu Beta Phi, to discuss how this military fraternity is making a lasting impact on veterans by providing mentorship, community, and critical support services.
Navigating the Military-to-Civilian Transition
Michael G. HarrisMichael G. Harris, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1987 to 1991, recalls his transition to civilian life as a difficult yet educational experience. Unlike today, where various organizations provide resources for transitioning service members, he found that in 1991, there was little to no guidance.
“When I left the military, I had no idea what resources were available to me. No one told us where to go, what we were entitled to, or even how to start a career in the civilian world.”
For Michael, his transition was easier than most because he had a strong family foundation. His father was a Marine, and his uncles served in the Army, Air Force, and Navy. They guided him toward a stable career in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and Board of Probation and Parole, where he worked for 28 years before retiring in 2019.
However, he acknowledges that not every veteran is as fortunate. Many leave the service without the support network necessary to navigate civilian life, which is one of the core reasons why Mu Beta Phi was founded.
The Birth of Mu Beta Phi
“Veterans struggle with mental and physical challenges post-service, making the transition difficult. We built Mu Beta Phi to provide continued brotherhood, mentorship, and essential resources.”
Since its inception, the fraternity has expanded to 21 chapters across the United States, with an international expansion planned for Germany. The fraternity fosters military camaraderie while actively addressing key issues such as homelessness, mentorship, and mental health for veterans.
Mighty Warriors Mentorship Program
A major initiative by for the fraternity is the Mighty Warriors Mentorship Program. Initially designed to support the children of deployed service members, it has now evolved to mentor young men in local communities.
“We teach them valuable life skills—how to balance a checkbook, tie a tie, change a tire, and conduct themselves with professionalism.”
Through partnerships with local schools, the program provides young men with positive role models, particularly those without a stable home environment. The program has inspired many young mentees to consider military service as a future career.
“It’s the small things—teaching young men respect, confidence, and self-discipline. These small lessons create a lifelong impact.”
Herculean Effort: Ending Veteran Homelessness
Another critical program for the fraternity is the Herculean Effort, which focuses on eliminating veteran homelessness. Studies estimate that tens of thousands of veterans experience homelessness in the U.S., particularly in urban areas like Los Angeles.
“You hear about homelessness all the time, but very few people talk about veteran homelessness. Mu Beta Phi is working to change that.”
The fraternity is taking proactive steps to assist veterans by:
Identifying homeless veterans in encampments
Connecting them with VA resources and housing programs
Partnering with organizations to provide meals, clothing, and hygiene kits
“We’re going to where these veterans are. We’re ensuring they get the help they need by serving as the bridge between them and the resources available.”
Chapters in Philadelphia, Las Vegas, and Texas actively engage in feeding and clothing homeless veterans, ensuring no veteran is left behind.
The Power of Brotherhood
What sets Mu Beta Phi apart from other veteran organizations like the VFW or American Legion is its deeply personal and intimate approach to brotherhood. Instead of merely providing a social space, this military fraternity ensures that veterans have a support system whenever they need it.
“If I travel to another city and post in our group chat that I’m arriving, within minutes, brothers in that area will reach out, asking where I’m staying and how they can help.”
This tight-knit network ensures that no veteran feels alone, offering both emotional and logistical support whenever needed.
Joining Mu Beta Phi & Starting a Chapter
Becoming a member of the fraternity is a straightforward process. The requirements include:
Having served at least two years in the military with an honorable discharge
Completing a six-week training program
A small application fee to cover administrative costs
Those interested in starting a new chapter must first be active members for at least a year, ensuring they fully understand the fraternity’s mission and structure.
“We’ve grown from one chapter to 21 in just seven years, and we’re still expanding. Veterans need organizations like Mu Beta Phi, and we want to reach as many as possible.”
A Call to Action: Get Involved Today
As the episode concluded, Michael issued a heartfelt invitation:
“If you’re a veteran looking for mentorship, brotherhood, or support, come join Mu Beta Phi. We’re here to help you succeed beyond service.”
For veterans struggling with transition, isolation, or homelessness, Mu Beta Phi provides the resources, guidance, and camaraderie needed to thrive in civilian life.
How to Get Involved:
🌐 Visit Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity: www.mbphikings2017.org
📌 Follow VET S.O.S. Podcast for More Veteran Stories & Resources!
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