The St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby hosted its fifth annual fundraising event yesterday at the Llanerch Country Club in Havertown, bringing together supporters from across the Delaware Valley for an evening that balanced festivity with purpose. What began as a modest community effort has, in just a few years, become a much-anticipated tradition—drawing parishioners, friends, and Philhellenes eager to celebrate and support one of the region’s most active Greek schools.
This year’s event was once again sold out. The gathering offered more than just dinner and entertainment—it affirmed a shared commitment to preserving Greek language and culture through education. Proceeds from the evening go directly to sustaining and enhancing the St. Demetrios Greek School, widely regarded for its high academic standards and cultural programming. The continued enthusiasm surrounding this annual effort underscores how deeply the community values this institution.
Much of the evening’s success rested on the generosity of local Greek-American businesses and dedicated individuals who support the event year after year. Their sponsorships and donations, along with the tireless work of church volunteers, are what make the fundraiser possible. It’s not just the financial backing that matters—it’s the spirit behind it. Volunteers once again took the lead in preparing homemade Greek dishes, ensuring that guests were welcomed with the flavors and hospitality that define the St. Demetrios community.
As guests gathered in the country club’s warmly lit banquet space, the sound of live Greek music set the tone. Tables filled with conversation, laughter, and the soft clink of glasses, while others made their way to the dance floor, where traditions came alive in movement. There was a sense of familiarity throughout the night—of people who have celebrated many milestones together, and who take pride in coming together for a common goal.
One of the lighter moments of the evening was the annual golf ball toss, a tradition that has earned its place as a closing highlight. From the balcony of the country club, participants launched numbered golf balls to the cheers of those below. As winners were announced, there was a shared joy that extended beyond the prizes—another small moment that added to the sense of belonging the event fosters.
With the evening drawing to a close, the message from St. Demetrios was one of gratitude. Every attendee, sponsor, and volunteer played a role in making the night a success, and their support ensures that the church’s educational and cultural mission remains strong. As the parish reflects on five years of these gatherings, the focus now shifts to the future—toward continuing a tradition that brings people together around shared values, heritage, and a lasting sense of community.