An evening of cards, art, and Hellenic pride will bring the community together this October in support of the Heritage Greece® Program. On Friday, October 24, 2025, the National Hellenic Society (NHS) will host an Art Exhibition, Charity Poker Tournament, and Ladies Blackjack Tournament at the Strathmore Vanderbilt Country Club in Manhasset, New York. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and continues until midnight.
The fundraiser supports the NHS’s Heritage Greece® Program, a cultural immersion that has already touched the lives of more than 900 young Greek Americans. Each summer, the program brings college students of Greek descent to Greece to study and travel alongside their peers at the American College of Greece in Athens, the American College of Thessaloniki, and College Year in Athens.
This past summer alone, over 130 students took part in what many describe as a life-changing experience. Alumni often return home with a deeper sense of identity, new friendships, and lasting ties to Greece.
A Night of Cards and Art
Guests can look forward to friendly competition at the poker and blackjack tables, along with a celebration of Greek American creativity. Works by Long Island artists Anna Frangoulis Atelier, known for her Byzantine-inspired icons and traditional motifs, Penny Strong, whose contemporary paintings often play with light and movement, and Despina Zografos, celebrated for her colorful abstract compositions, will be on display. Guests will have the chance to enjoy and even purchase pieces that reflect each artist’s unique style.
Hosted by the Community
The New York Heritage Greece® Initiative Committee has once again brought together a dedicated team of hosts:
- Jimmy & Amy Belesis
- John & Maria Frankis
- Nick & Marilena Katopodis
- Nick & Christina Pashalis
- Paul & Julie Tsoumpariotis
- Steven & Katherine Spucces
- John & Daniella Venetis
Their ongoing efforts have helped make this event a New York tradition, strengthening support for the Heritage Greece® Program year after year.
A Shared Legacy
Heritage Greece® is more than a summer abroad. It is a way for young people to experience their heritage firsthand and carry it forward into their lives and communities. With the support of events like this one, NHS plans to expand the program even further, ensuring that future generations can share in the same transformative journey.
All are welcome to join in Manhasset for an evening of art, games, and giving back. Together, we can keep the light of Hellenic culture shining for the next generation.
For details and registration, visit the official event page.
Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending, as dates, times, locations, and registration information may change.