AHEPA/ Daughters of Penelope
Welcome to the Naias Chapter of the Daughters of Penelope! As the women’s auxiliary of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), we are dedicated to promoting Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, and family values within our community. Joining the wider AHEPA family, which includes the men’s, young men’s, and young women’s groups, our chapter contributes to the rich legacy of Greek heritage and community involvement that AHEPA has fostered since its founding in 1922.
The Mission
The Mission of the Daughters of Penelope is to promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, Family and Individual Excellence.
AHEPA
What is AHEPA?
AHEPA is the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association – a group working to promote understanding of Greek culture and defending the rights of all minority Americans.
The AHEPA Family consists of four organizations, namely: AHEPA (men), Daughters of Penelope (women), Sons of Pericles (young men), and Maids of Athena (young women). AHEPA has chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Greece, Cyprus, and through its affiliate in Australia and New Zealand.
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 under the auspices of AHEPA Australia.
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.
The Daughters of Penelope, NAIAS Chapter
What is AHEPA?
Throughout the span of its history, the Daughters of Penelope has served as a vital vehicle for the progressive development and emergence of many American citizens of Greek heritage into every facet of society: government, business, education, and the arts. This fulfillment illustrates the promise of the American Dream and symbolizes the hard work ethic of our immigrant forbearers who labored to achieve that dream with the principles of Hellenism rooted deep in their hearts.
