By Jim Zafiros
On October 20, an extraordinary human-interest event occurred that deserves recognition. Members of the James Plevritis-Joseph C. Keane Chapter #405 held an impromptu Cigar Night fundraiser outside of its own ethical boundaries, to help support Jose Gomez, the Caretaker of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in New Rochelle, the Chapter’s home parish.
Mr. Gomez, with over 20 years of community service to the parish, suffered a stroke in mid-September, was hospitalized, and is currently progressing in rehabilitation facilities in Westchester. It was evident, Mr. Gomez and his family needed strong support and resources to carry him through this very difficult period in his life. It was a true AHEPA opportunity, defining the spirit of Brotherhood. The Chapter rose to the occasion and raised a generous amount of funds in such a short period of time, lifting the “P” in AHEPA’s logo to the heavens. While the “P” in AHEPA stands for Progressive, AHEPA is a true fraternal organization and to many, the “P” also means Philanthropic, due to its worldwide efforts in helping those in need.
Last Sunday, at a church General Assembly meeting held at the Holy Trinity Parish, Chapter President, Harry Fotiadis, made the announcement to the community in attendance. The “P” in AHEPA stood out loud and clear, Progressive and Philanthropic; Chapter #405 has a long history of a Progressive approach to membership and events and for recognizing local Philanthropic needs in the Westchester region. It’s one of the reasons the chapters standing within its community is beyond peer and its membership has ranked among the top AHEPA Chapters in the nation. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the Chapters Leadership like never before, in fundraising and maintaining and developing and extending its colors well beyond normal expectations. The Chapter’s commitment to Hellenism should be commended.
New Rochelle AHEPANs gather to support Jose Gomez
Photo: Dino Yotides
