BOSTON – The National Hellenic Society's (NHS) Boston Chapter hosted a Cocktail Reception at the Committee Ouzeri & Bar for NHS Members, Heritage Greece and Heritage America Program Alumni, and NHS Friends.  The evening was a success, and a much-welcomed opportunity to catch up after the many months the COVID -19 which canceled all social gatherings and events.

Drake Behrakis, the organization’s chairman is a successful young businessman and emerging leader in the Greek-American community welcomed the guests and spoke about the vision and aims of the Society.

The reception of the National Hellenic Society. Shown from left Nick Gage, Athena Kelemkeridis, Maria Behrakis, Veronica Geroukos, and Drake Behrakis. (Photo: Provided by National Hellenic Society)

NHS is a prominent association of Greek-American leaders and philanthropists who perpetuate and celebrate our rich heritage. The NHS was established to create a lasting network of Greek-Americans to preserve our heritage through the sponsorship and initiation of programs that support Hellenic culture, benefit its members and their families, and honor their ancestors. NHS members represent accomplished men and women in the Greek-American community, and membership is solely by invitation. As is the NHS’ tradition, fellowship and enrichment is a prominent part of this society.

The NHS Society was established by a group of dedicated Greek-Americans, each a leader in their respective fields. The members of The NHS have demonstrated the values and ideals that the Society espouses: service to their fellow citizens, their communities, and the United States.

Its purpose and interest is the perpetuation of those values and ideals that are embodied within the Hellenic heritage – classical ideas associated with ancient Greek democracy including the pursuit of knowledge, education, the arts, and civic responsibility.

The reception of the National Hellenic Society. Shown from left Voula Manolis, Joanne Doulamis, Ritsa Meltsakos, and Chrysoula Kourkounti. (Photo: Provided by National Hellenic Society)

It has been incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware as a non-profit, non-stock, tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and  focuses on the promotion of Hellenic heritage and the furtherance of Hellenic ideas through the sponsorship of scientific, educational, and charitable programs.

The Society actively supports programs sponsored by universities, colleges, and educational institutions throughout the United States that demonstrate a common interest in preserving, promoting and enjoying for posterity, education, the sciences, arts, music, culture, history, philosophy, democracy, and related legacies derived from and through the ancient Hellenic era to the present.

The president of the National Hellenic Society Drake Behrakis is greeting the gathering. (Photo: Provided by National Hellenic Society)

Through the support of programs that foster the preservation of the Hellenic heritage in the United States, NHS strives to be a beacon for the promotion, understanding and appreciation of the Hellenic heritage in the United States, and pass on the stewardship of Greek heritage and shared democratic values and ideals to the next generation. Its members pay $2,500 annual membership.

This year the much-anticipated Hellenic Heritage Weekend will take place at M Resort & casino in Las Vegas October 7 to 10.