Deptford, NJ – The International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) celebrated its 14th Annual Philadelphia Benefit Banquet this past Sunday, drawing a vibrant crowd to Adelphia Restaurant’s Pan Athenian Grand Ballroom in Deptford, NJ. This long-standing event has become a hallmark of community support for global humanitarian efforts, and this year was no exception.
The evening commenced with a lively reception and silent auction at 3:30 pm, where attendees bid on unique items while connecting with fellow supporters. At 5:00 pm, guests gathered for a sumptuous dinner with an inspiring program showcasing IOCC’s extensive humanitarian work worldwide.
Tony Pantezopoulos, chairman of the IOCC Philadelphia committee, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “For 14 years, this event has been a testament to the generosity of our local Orthodox community and beyond,” he remarked. “It’s heartening to see how our efforts in Philadelphia translate into real change for those in need globally.”
Louis A. Zagami, an IOCC Development Officer, also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the organization’s ongoing initiatives and their impact on communities worldwide. He spoke with Cosmos Philly about the importance of continued support for IOCC’s humanitarian missions, highlighting how every contribution helps those affected by crises.
George E. Antoun, Director of Programs at IOCC, also spoke to attendees about the organization’s various projects. He detailed how IOCC is actively engaged in implementing innovative programs that address critical needs in crisis-affected areas, reinforcing the importance of community support in sustaining these efforts.
Founded in 1992, IOCC has significantly impacted by distributing over $830 million in humanitarian aid and disaster relief. The organization has responded to numerous crises, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, the aftermath of explosions in Beirut, floods in the United States, wildfires in Greece and California, and hurricanes affecting the Gulf Coast and Carolinas.
The annual banquet is a crucial fundraising opportunity for IOCC’s continued operations. A Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Committee spokesperson emphasized the importance of this gathering: “This event is more than just a dinner; it’s an opportunity for our community to come together and make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by disasters and conflicts worldwide.”
As the evening concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of IOCC’s vital role in global humanitarian efforts. The success of the 14th Annual Philadelphia Benefit Banquet ensures that IOCC can continue its mission of providing aid and hope to those in need around the world.