The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) is the largest and oldest American-based, Greek heritage grassroots membership organization. Its scope is international with chapters in the United States, Canada, Greece, and Cyprus, and "sister" chapters in Australia and New Zealand.
AHEPA was founded on July 26, 1922 in response to the evils of bigotry and racism that emerged in early 20th century American society. It also helped Greek immigrants assimilate into society.
Today, AHEPA brings the ideals of ancient Greece, which includes philanthropy, education, civic responsibility, and family and individual excellence to the community.
Although a majority of the membership is composed of Americans of Greek descent, application for membership is open to anyone who believes in the mission of the organization.
An important component of AHEPA's mission is to create an awareness of Hellenism to society. These principles include a commitment to humanity, freedom and democracy. The preservation and promotion of these ideals is where AHEPA has, and always will be, deeply committed.
AHEPA's commitment to education has been well documented throughout it's history. More that $4 million is endowed at the local, district, and national levels toward the use of scholarships and a half-million dollars is awarded annually. Thousands of young men and women have benefited as recipients at these various levels.
Philanthropy and volunteerism have been pillars of strength for AHEPA. From natural disaster relief to the raising funds for the elimination of life threatening disease to making significant contributions to our local neighborhoods, AHEPA is at the forefront of charitable giving.
With chapters in ever major metropolitan city and in rural areas of North America, AHEPA communicates the positions of the Greek-American community to elected representatives at the federal, state and local levels as wells as to our diplopmatic leaders. These issues pertain to Greece, Cyprus and Turkey; however, our constituents are also interested in domestic policy areas affecting philanthropic, civic service and community-based service programs in which they are involved. These positions are based upon our American heritage and ideals with the best interest of the United States in mind.
For more information, please visit www.ahepa.org
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