AHEPA Foundation’s Journey to Greece Christmas Benefit Inspires and Unites the Community

The second annual AHEPA Foundation’s Journey to Greece Christmas Benefit brought together AHEPA family and friends for an evening of celebration and purpose at The Graycliff catering facility in Moonachie, New Jersey. The event highlighted the transformative Journey to Greece program, one of AHEPA’s most impactful initiatives for youth, while fostering a festive holiday spirit.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from George G. Horiates, PSP, who served as the master of ceremonies. His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey opened the program with an invocation, setting a reflective and celebratory tone. Distinguished guests included Daughters of Penelope (DOP) Grand President Margaret Dritsas, AHEPA Canada President Emmanuel Constas, and The Honorable Iphigenia Kanara, Consul General of Greece in New York, who addressed the attendees with inspiring remarks.

A highlight of the event was the testimonials from four participants in the 2024 Journey to Greece Program. Introduced by SOP Supreme Governor George T. Horiates and MOA PGP Maria Ana Pantelous, the students shared heartfelt stories of how this life-changing program deepened their connection to their Hellenic heritage and enriched their personal and educational journeys.

A moment of special recognition was reserved for Supreme President Savas C. Tsivicos, who presented a commemorative honor to Anastasios Efstratiades of the George W. Rentschler Foundation. His generous $200,000 donation as a grand underwriter has significantly advanced the Foundation’s goal of raising $1 million to establish an endowment for the Journey to Greece program. This endowment will ensure that future students can participate in the program at an affordable cost, securing its legacy as an invaluable educational opportunity.

Thanks to the support and generosity of benefactors and attendees, the AHEPA Foundation is well on its way to achieving its fundraising goal. This memorable event not only celebrated the holiday season but also underscored the enduring mission of AHEPA: to preserve and promote Hellenic heritage, culture, and education for generations to come.