MANHASSET, NY – The AHEPA Gold Coast Chapter 456 ushered in the new year with a compassionate effort aimed at supporting the visually impaired in Greece. On January 3rd, the chapter convened for its inaugural meeting of the year, featuring an engaging presentation by Robert Adams, the President of the American Friends of the Blind in Greece (AFBG). Dr. Dean Pappas coordinated this presentation.
Mr. Adams recounted the inspiring journey that commenced in 1946 when a group of Greek Americans acknowledged the dire circumstances faced by the visually impaired in Greece. At the time many were living in poverty, lacking medical care, and access to essential resources. AFBG’s initial efforts established a small agricultural and technical school in Sepolia to teach the blind a trade. This school evolved over the years into the significant institution known today as the Lighthouse for the Blind in Kalithea, serving approximately 7000 individuals annually.
The AHEPA Chapter 456 President, Gus Constantine, presented Robert Adams with a $1,500 donation in support of the continued assistance to the programs for the blind in Greece. This event underscores AHEPA’s unwavering dedication to philanthropy both domestically and internationally. Annually, the chapter donates to various charitable organizations in support of its mission.
The American Friends of the Blind in Greece is a tax-exempt charity under section 501( C)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information about this wonderful charity, please visit www.friendsoftheblind.org or call (508) 591-0437.
The meeting concluded with the traditional New Year’s Vasilopita tradition, blessed by Father John Lardas. The symbolic lucky coin found its way to Anastasios Stampolis, President of AHEPA Constantine Cassis Chapter 170 and Warden of the AHEPA District 6 Lodge. The AHEPA Gold Coast Chapter 456 remains steadfast in its mission to make a positive impact through meaningful philanthropic endeavors.
SOURCE; AHEPA
Photo: Courtesy of AHEPA
