Inspiring Our Pre-Teens with Philanthropy — Teaching the next generation to not only LOVE Philotimo, but to LIVE Philotimo
For the fourth consecutive year, the Greek America Foundation is proud to continue a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition — now known as Project Philotimo — inspiring the youngest members of our community to live with compassion, gratitude, and service.
Born four years ago out of love and legacy, Project Philotimo began when Andreas Koutsoudakis created the initiative in memory of his late father, Andreas (below) — a beloved Tribeca restaurateur and philanthropist — alongside Kyriakos and Roda Perperidis and their pre-teen children.
What began as one family’s tribute has grown into a movement of giving that now sits at the heart of the Greek America Foundation’s mission to nurture philotimo in our youth.
This year’s project is generously supported by Carnegie Diner and Chef Stathis Antonakopoulos, who is welcoming us into the kitchen to implement this act of kindness.
On the day of the project (see date/time below), our pre-teens will gather at Carnegie Diner to cook, assemble and package Thanksgiving meals—then deliver them personally to local shelters across New York City.
Before the activity begins, Gregory Pappas, Founder and President of the Greek America Foundation, will speak with the young volunteers about how every small act of kindness creates a ripple of hope.
A Call to Philotimo
Each meal costs $20 — and every donation helps us feed more families in need. Our pre-teens are giving their time. Carnegie Diner is offering its kitchen and heart. We invite you — our supporters — to share your treasures. Please consider sponsoring a meal or two. Or even three, perhaps?
Together, we’ll serve hundreds of meals and nourish families in need in our community, while simultaneously teach the next generation what it truly means to live philotimo.
How to Participate
Date: Wednesday, November 26 at 6:00 PM
Location: Carnegie Diner, 2nd Floor, Martinique Hotel, 49 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
Participation is free and open exclusively to Greek America Foundation members and their children. All participants and families will enjoy a snacks and refreshments during the event, courtesy of Carnegie Diner. Pre-registration is required for all adults and their children.
Not yet a member? Join today and open the door to experiences that teach your children the joy of giving. Click here to see our membership options.
Future Vision
Project Philotimo isn’t just a Thanksgiving event or a boring bake sale— it’s part of our efforts to plant seeds of philanthropy and compassion and teach our pre-teens and teens to serve with their hands and give with their hearts.
From volunteering to philanthropy, these moments shape compassionate leaders for life. Although currently focused in our home base in New York City, we’re open to expanding to other cities and have the know-how and expertise to launch and implement such programs in your area.