This year, the Aid to Greece and Cyprus Committee has launched its Heart-to-Heart Campaign to bring renewed awareness and commitment to the plight of our brethren overseas.
Philoptochos stewards are urged to embrace the concept of the “Pop-up Kafe” as a simple way to raise muchneeded funds. This is the way it works: One or more individuals host a coffee event in someone’s home, a church facility, coffee shop, or other suitable venue. The host invites a small group of guests, each of whom makes a modest donation. The attendees enjoy a cup of coffee and other refreshment in an atmosphere of camaraderie, awareness and purpose. By design, the Pop-up Kafe is uncomplicated, fun, easy to organize, and requires little time. Best of all, it will provide a steady source of income as similar events “pop up” all over the country. In a heartwarming response to this renewed commitment to aid our Greek and Cypriot brethren, Philoptochos stewards across the nation are stepping up to heed the call.
Metropolis of Pittsburgh Rises to the Challenge
A stellar example is the “Heart–to–Heart Pop-Up Kafe Ellada” held on Greek Independence Day by Holy Cross Philoptochos members in Pittsburgh. The event was hosted by Demetria Danielides Abde and promoted to the Holy Cross parish. The venue was Mount Lebanon Starbucks, which shared the cost of the coffee, and guests were treated to homemade karithopita. The event was publicized via Facebook, an E-vite sent via e-mail, and an announcement placed in the parish bulletin. By all accounts, this easy fundraiser was well attended, enjoyed by all, and most importantly, successfully served its noble purpose.
Metropolis of San Francisco Embraces Heart–to–Heart Campaign
On the West Coast, the Philoptochos chapter of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Long Beach, Calif. hosted a Pop-up Kafe on March 22. Held in the church hall, approximately 25 guests were treated to coffee as well as homemade and storebought treats.
No monetary donation amount was suggested, but the chapter reported that the attendees gave generously. Again, the event was simple, fun and rewarding, with friends enjoying each other’s company while supporting our friends in Greece and Cyprus.
Similar events are popping up in metropolises from coast to coast with equally positive results. Whether hosted by an individual or an entire chapter, the success of the Pop-up Kafes demonstrates the enormous heart of Philoptochos and our steadfast dedication to serve the needs of others.
The intense and ongoing economic crisis in Greece and Cyprus has manifested itself not only in the lack of basic tangible needs, but also in the adverse impact to the spiritual and emotional well–being of the people. While hundreds of thousands of dollars have already been donated, there remains much work to be done.
In the Heart-to-Heart Campaign, President Maria Logus and Chairman Aphrodite Skeadas are calling upon stewards across the nation to renew their commitment to act on behalf the people of Greece and Cyprus.
Chapters and individuals are urged to host a Pop-up Kafe or sponsor any other simple fundraiser. We are all reminded of our vital commitment to help our Greek and Cypriot brothers and sisters with love, compassion and generosity.
To learn more about the Heart-to-Heart Campaign go to: www.philoptochos.org/outreach/aid-to-greece-andcyprus
Donations may be sent to National Philoptochos, 126 East 37th Street, New York, New York 10016, or made online at: http://bit.ly/1MpMsF3
