GARRISON, NY –
A brand-new Sensory Room at St. Basil’s Academy, the Greek Orthodox residential child care center nestled in Garrison, NY, was proudly unveiled by the Maids of Athena District 6, on June 14. The project was spearheaded by District 6 Governor Sophia Theodorou, alongside her fellow Lodge members Michelle Papandrea, Styliani Rallis, and Laina Tzanides. In less than a year, their vision for creating a supportive, therapeutic space for the children of SBA became a reality.
In recognition of her dedication to this project and her volunteer efforts, Sophia Theodorou was honored by St. Basil’s Academy as Volunteer of the Year, a special award presented during the event.
The fundraising efforts were led exclusively by the Maids of Athena District 6, but the project blossomed through the generosity and support of the wider AHEPA family, Philoptochos societies, and countless individual donors both within and outside of these organizations. Thanks to this united effort, the Maids raised a total of $34,310.18. With the addition of donated services, the project’s grand total value reached an impressive $56,718.
In conjunction with the room’s unveiling, the Maids presented a check for $14,342.80 to St. Basil’s Academy. These funds will ensure the room remains well-maintained, allow for the purchase of new items as needed for incoming children and families, and also help cover related services such as occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and speech services.
Adding to the day’s celebrations, the AHEPA family was also honored to present a scholarship award to St. Basil Academy student Gianna Massas who had been unable to attend the recent AHEPA convention due to her graduation. AHEPA Supreme President Savas Tsivicos also announced that AHEPA District 6 Executive Secretary Chris Pappis would be awarded the Heroes Medal which is the highest in the AHEPA family.
The Maids of Athena District 6 extended their heartfelt thanks to all who contributed, either through monetary donations, services, or their time. They especially thanked Fr. Eugene Pappas for having them on his COSMOS FM radio show twice, helping to spread the word about this important project. The Maids also expressed their appreciation to their family and friends, and most importantly, the St. Basil Academy family, for welcoming them with open arms and giving them the opportunity to bring this vision to life.
The unveiling event brought together more than 100 attendees from both within and outside of the AHEPA family. Distinguished guests included AHEPA Supreme President Savas Tsivicos, Sons of Pericles Supreme President Alec Economakis, MOA Grand President Stephanie Owens & her entire Lodge, Supreme Governor Region 3 Dean Moskos, MOA Grand Advisor Helen McClure, DOP District 6 Governor Marina Patelos and Lodge, and AHEPA District 6 Governor Gus Constantine.
For those interested in following the project’s journey, including videos of the room’s creation and the radio interviews, please visit the Maids website, www.moadistrict6.com
The Maids of Athena District 6 believe in the power of small actions creating big change, “Be the ripple, be the change, and keep looking ahead.”
[AHEPA/ District 6]
