Newtown Square, PA — On Sunday night at the Ellis Preserve, Greek Americans from across the country gathered for the annual Hellenic Hearts Gala, supporting a growing network of charitable and educational initiatives that now extend well beyond the Philadelphia region.
The organization, founded by John Aivazoglou, Nick Karalis, Tim Vlassopoulos, and Kostas Mikropoulos, began as a response to hardship in the local Greek community. Since then, it has developed into a structured initiative offering emergency assistance, academic support, and partnerships with national institutions. This year’s gala raised funds for several causes, including $30,000 for the Philodoxia scholarship program, $10,000 each for Hellenic College Holy Cross and the Ecumenical Bartholomew Foundation, and contributions to St. Basil’s Academy, the St. Innocent Orphanage in Tijuana, the Oxi Day Foundation, and the National Hellenic Society. In total, $70,000 was distributed directly to these initiatives.
Education remains a central focus. According to President John Aivazoglou, the four scholarship recipients this year represent “the most competitive class” to date. The Philodoxia program, led by Louie Karapanagiotides, has become a key part of Hellenic Hearts’ long-term commitment to mentoring and development.
The evening also included the presentation of the Filotimo Award, now in its fourth year, to Michael Bapis, vice chairman of Leadership 100. The moment was made more personal by the surprise arrival of his parents, Dr. Elaine and Nick Bapis, who had traveled from Utah to witness the honor.
“Michael gets it,” Aivazoglou said. “A good father, a good son, a good coach… everything he touches, he does the right way.” Bapis spoke about the value of filotimo—a concept that resists direct translation but speaks to dignity, responsibility, and a sense of duty to others. “It all started with them,” he said, crediting his parents for shaping his understanding of community and service.
Mike Manatos, who first received the Filotimo Award in 2021, once again presented the honor. It was also announced that he will serve as the award’s chairperson going forward, guiding the selection process in the years ahead.
The evening’s atmosphere balanced reflection with celebration. Greek American comedian Nick Carras provided entertainment, describing his performance as an expression of parea and kefi—community and joy. “Just good times, connections, and laughs for a good cause,” he said.
The next morning, Hellenic Hearts board members and supporters continued their efforts with the organization’s annual golf fundraiser at Fieldstone Country Club. As Aivazoglou noted, “This is step one.” The gala is part of a broader rhythm of sustained support—responding quickly to emergencies while building long-term opportunities through mentorship and partnership.
What distinguishes Hellenic Hearts is its ability to act with both urgency and care. Whether helping a family in crisis or funding national scholarship programs, the organization stays focused on meeting real needs with consistency and integrity.