New York – At a special meeting on Tuesday, December 20, 2016, the Leadership 100 Executive Committee unanimously approved a $250,000 gift for the rebuilding of the Ionian Village campgrounds. Ionian Village, the summer camping ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, was struck by a devastating tornado in early September, rendering the campsite paralyzed due to massive infrastructural damages.

Many members of Leadership 100 have been affected by the work of Ionian Village over the past 46 years, as many children from Leadership families have participated in the programs. George S. Tsandikos, Chairman of Leadership 100 stated: “Ionian Village has been the centerpiece of the Archdiocese youth program and has introduced generations of Greek American Orthodox youth to their Faith and Heritage in a hospitable environment.”

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, reflecting on the news said, “This is one more significant gesture of Leadership 100, added to its long benevolent assistance to the ministries of our Archdiocese. I can see it as an example to be followed by our organizations and individuals so that this very vital ministry of Ionian Village continues without interruption.”

This gift marks the single largest donation to the Ionian Village rebuilding fund. Together with donations from alumni, parishes, Philoptochos chapters and other organizations within the Greek American community, over $596,000 has been raised, with an ultimate goal of $1,500,000. To donate to the Ionian Village rebuilding effort, please visit www.ionianvillage.org/donate .