Saint Helen Philoptochos fundraiser benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Vista

Saint Helen Philoptochos recently celebrated 41 years of “Philanthropy, Fellowship and Faith in Action” at its fundraiser “Party in the Plaka” with over 275 attendees in November.

The fundraiser benefited multiple charities and ministries. The Boys & Girls Club of Vista, their major recipient, received $12,500. In addition, the organization was able to obtain matching funds of $12,500, thereby doubling the total amount received to $25,000.

Saint Helen Philoptochos representatives, Katherine Foster, event chair, Connie Fellios, president, and Angel Delagrammaticas, treasurer, presented the check to Matt Koumaras, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Vista surrounded by many smiling children, all of whom are among the many youngsters this donation will benefit.

The Boys & Girls Club of Vista began nearly 60 years ago to provide a safe and fun place for all students ages 5-18 with age-appropriate activities and programs focused on character development, academic achievement, and healthy lifestyles. They are committed to helping kids of all backgrounds and interests emerge into successful, well-rounded young adults. They currently serve over 3,300 youth on weekdays after school as well as during school breaks throughout the year. Visit www.bgcvista.org for more information.

Saint Helen Philoptochos, a local chapter of the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, is the philanthropic ministry of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Philoptochos means friends of the poor and needy. Its mission is to help the poor, the imprisoned, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, and victims of disaster locally, nationally and internationally.

This local chapter is part of the National Ladies Philoptochos Society of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, founded in 1931. It is comprised of over 400 chapters with more than 26,000 members. It is one of the largest Christian women’s organizations in the nation.

For additional information, visit www.stsconstantinehelen.com/st-helen-philoptochos