Project Philotimo began as a single Thanksgiving service project and quickly became one of the most beloved traditions of the Greek America Foundation. It is now a year-round institutional program, designed to help pre-teen young people live the ideals of philotimo through consistent, hands-on service.
Who Can Participate
Participation is open exclusively to the pre-teen children of Greek America Foundation members, ensuring that families who share in our mission and values have the opportunity to raise compassionate, service-minded young people.
Why Year-Round? Because Hunger Doesn’t Wait for the Holidays
Food insecurity affects families every day. To meet this reality, Project Philotimo now includes four seasonal service days per year, where pre-teens prepare and distribute meals to individuals and families facing hardship in New York City.
Our Partner: Carnegie Diner & Café
The expansion of Project Philotimo is possible thanks to the generosity of Carnegie Diner & Café, a proud Cares Partner of the Greek America Foundation. Carnegie offers:
- A full professional kitchen
- Their staff and logistical support
- On-site mentoring
- Meal production at below cost
This gives our kids a real, vibrant kitchen environment where they work together, learn teamwork, and take pride in feeding others.
The Heart of the Experience: Delivering the Meals Themselves
After the meals are prepared and packed, the kids don’t just leave them behind—they deliver them personally to our established network of shelters and community partners across New York City.
This moment is transformative.
Children meet the very people they’ve cooked for. They hand over warm meals, exchange smiles, offer kindness, and understand—deeply—how their efforts matter. These interactions often become the most memorable and meaningful part of the program.
Learning Philanthropy Through Action
Ahead of each quarterly project, every child launches a $75 GoFundMe mini-campaign. This simple, kid-sized fundraiser teaches:
- Accountability
- Storytelling
- Advocacy
- The basics of raising money for a cause
A lighthearted “top fundraiser” recognition each cycle celebrates creativity and initiative—not wealth.
What Kids Gain
- The confidence that comes from helping others
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Healthy empathy through human connection
- Exposure to a professional kitchen
- A lived understanding of philotimo
A New Tradition With Deep Roots
Project Philotimo is no longer a once-a-year holiday gesture—it is a year-round commitment to raising compassionate, engaged young people who understand that service is something you live, not something you do once.