NEW YORK – GreekNewsUSA
“HANAC has been part of my life for 50 years. Celebrating this anniversary brings back many memories of its extraordinary growth from a small grass roots organization into a citywide, multifaceted social service agency, as well as memories of its founder, my husband George Douris”, said HANAC’s Co-Founder and Chair of the Board of Directors Evangeline Douris accepting the organization’s “Person of the Year” Award at HANAC’s 50th Anniversary Gala held on October 21 at The Mandarin Oriental in New York City.
In an emotional speech, she referred to George Douris’ vision to create an organization that would help immigrants with many facets of their lives. She talked about the challenging beginnings of HANAC which gradually transformed into a dynamic social services agency, emphasizing, however, that the agency’s main priority remains the needs of the elderly.
Douris was introduced by her daughter Litsa Douris who spoke about how her parents’ dream and tireless efforts inspired her own life.
In Congratulating Evangeline Douris, HANAC’s President Nikitas Drakotos said that “she has made it her life’s work to make HANAC a truly amazing organization and in so doing has helped improve countless lives.
U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, NYS Senate Deputy Leader, Michael Gianaris, NYS Senator John Liu presented proclamations to Evangeline Douris, recognizing also HANAC’s contributions to the society, especially at a time of need.
Journalist Andrea Stassou was the Emcee and Stacy Bliagos, HANAC’s Executive Director, greeted the guests.
The opening prayer was given by the Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Fr. Alexander Karloutsos.
Consul of Greece, Dimitrios Papageorgiou, NYS Senator Deputy Mayor of New York, Loraine Grillo, businessman and benefactor of HANAC, John Catsimatidis, former president of the Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce, Nancy Papaioannou were among the dignitaries who were present to honor Douris.
