[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E851]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE AMERICAN HELLENIC EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION 
                               RECEPTION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 28, 2014

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand 
before you to recognize the American Hellenic Educational Progressive 
Association (AHEPA) as members come together for the annual AHEPA/
Daughters of Penelope District #12 and #13 Convention, which will take 
place at Dynasty Banquets in Hammond, Indiana, from Friday, May 30 to 
Sunday, June 1, 2014.
   The Order of AHEPA was founded on July 26, 1922, in Atlanta, 
Georgia, joining the NAACP and B'nai B'rith in a joint effort to end 
racism, bigotry and discrimination against all immigrants. AHEPA's 
mission is in accordance with the principles of ancient Greece, to 
promote civic responsibility, education, philanthropy, family, and 
individual excellence through community service. AHEPA is the largest 
American-based Greek heritage organization and is made up of over 500 
chapters throughout North America.
   The AHEPA organization has continuously and passionately supported 
many charitable organizations throughout the region and abroad. AHEPA 
has raised thousands of dollars for Greek relief programs, feeding 
hundreds of families and children in Greece. They support national 
efforts, including the Saint Baldrick's Foundation for children's 
cancer research, the National Hellenic Foundation, and the National 
Hellenic Museum, among many others. Through each chapter, AHEPA serves 
as an inspiration to local communities.
   As a proud member of AHEPA Chapter 78, based in Merrillville, 
Indiana, I can attest to the tireless efforts our local chapters, which 
serve more people and raise more funding for charitable organizations 
than ever before. The many organizations throughout the region that 
have been assisted by the extraordinary generosity of local AHEPA 
chapters include the Ross Township Food Pantry, Boys and Girls Club, 
American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Meals on Wheels, Veterans Life 
Changing Services, and Rebuilding Together, among many others. One 
example of the tremendous contributions of AHEPA Chapter 78 is the 
completion of six apartment complexes in Merrillville, which provide 
accessible housing for senior citizens. Chapter members also give 
unselfishly of their time through volunteer efforts, delivering meals 
to the elderly and serving in local soup kitchens. For enthusiastically 
helping so many families, children, veterans, elderly, and those in 
need, the members of AHEPA are worthy of the highest praise.
   I would also like to recognize my dear friend Sam Benjamin for his 
continued commitment to advancing AHEPA's mission as he assumes the 
role of District 12 Governor. Sam's exceptional leadership and 
dedication to philanthropic efforts will prove invaluable to chapters 
throughout the district. In addition, I congratulate Matthew Kochevar 
who is completing his term as District 12 Governor. Matthew has 
dedicated his time and efforts to AHEPA. He is an outstanding public 
servant and has had a tremendous impact on many lives through his work 
with the organization.
   Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in honoring the American Hellenic Educational 
Progressive Association. For their remarkable leadership and 
commitment, as demonstrated through their service to so many in need 
throughout Northwest Indiana and across the nation, AHEPA's members are 
an inspiration to us all, and the organization, one to be emulated and 
admired.

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