Funds Raised Support Humanitarian And Economic Development Programs in Greece
On Saturday, December 7, Greeks from around the world united at The Hellenic Initiative’s (THI) 12th Annual New York Gala to raise funds in support of humanitarian and economic development programs in Greece. The Gala is the most highly anticipated and successful fundraising event among the global Greek Diaspora.
Marianne and Dean Metropoulos were honored for their contributions to Greece and recognized for their worldwide philanthropy. Notably, they have joined The Giving Pledge, a movement of philanthropists who publicly commit to give the majority of their wealth to address society’s pressing problems.
“Philanthropy, which is very much a Greek concept since ancient times, is in all of our DNA. Dean and I feel it deeply,” said Marianne Metropoulos. Referencing her film, “Cliffs of Freedom,” she added, “We wanted to do something to in fact inspire future generations and we hope our movie will help do that.”
“THI plays a significant role in supporting the economy of Greece, and more importantly the initiatives and careers of young professionals that fuel Greece’s future with talent and innovation,” noted Dean Metropoulos. “THI also gives meaning and strength to the identity of our future generations and their unique cultural roots of Hellenism.”
The black-tie cocktail hour and seated dinner was held at the celebrated Cipriani Wall Street where guests were welcomed by THI Board Chairman and Co-Founder Andrew N. Liveris and THI Board President and Co-Founder George P. Stamas. The sold-out Gala, THI’s largest annual event, hosted more than 800 dignitaries and guests from the U.S., Canada, UK, Europe, and Australia, including Gala Co-Chairs John and Joanne Koudounis and Michael G. and Robin Psaros.
“What began 12 years ago as an effort to stabilize a struggling nation has evolved into a mission that contributes to global peace, security, and economic resilience, positioning Greece as an indispensable player on the world stage,” said THI Board Chairman and Co-Founder Andrew N. Liveris. “THI is now a movement, a testament to the strength and resilience of the Greek people and the power of the global Diaspora and the philhellenes.”
“The New York Gala is our largest and most successful global event every year both in numbers of our stellar community here tonight and also in funds raised for the people of Greece,” said THI Board President and Co-Founder George P. Stamas. “We are deeply honored to have Dean and Marianne as this year’s honorees. Their support for The Hellenic Initiative, and for Greece itself, has been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Themed “Dare to Dream”, the black-tie evening featured a special performance by Greek singer Thanos Petrelis and dancing by the Jimmy Vali Band. THI Honorary Advisor Father Alexander Karloutsos delivered the evening’s invocation. Special guests included Antonios Tsapatakis, 2024 Paralympian Silver Medalist in Swimming – 100m breaststroke and Alexandra Stamatopoulou, 2024 Paralympian Gold Medalist in Swimming – 50m backstroke. A silent auction of world-class art, jewelry and experiences donated by Greeks from around the world added to the event’s excitement.
Two events were held the evening prior to the Gala:
– A special reception for members of the Lord Byron Circle of the 1821 Society was held at the offices of Calamos Investments in New York.
– THI New Leaders gathered at Milos Wine Bar in New York’s Hudson Yards for a spirited celebration titled “Networking with a Purpose.” These young professionals and entrepreneurs represent the future of The Hellenic Initiative and made up a quarter of Gala attendees.
