The Hellenic Initiative Australia (THI Australia) celebrated a decade of transformative work with friends, supporters, honorary council members and its partner charities in Athens, Greece on 23 July 2024.
The intimate reception generously hosted by Australia’s Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, was a testament to the impact of THI Australia’s efforts in Greece.
Ambassador Duncan congratulated THI Australia and the Greek Australian community for their unwavering support of vulnerable communities across Greece. Drawing from her own volunteering experiences with THI Australia’s partner charities, Boroume Saving Food Saving Lives and Emfasis Foundation, she spoke passionately about the impact of their work.
“We are grateful for the strong and supportive relationship THI Australia has enjoyed with the Australian Embassy in Greece,’ THI Australia Director, George Giovas, said.
His speech highlighted the organisation’s critical achievements over the past decade, made even more special by the presence of representatives from all partner charities.
To mark the occasion, THI Australia announced two new grants to Desmos Non-Profit Foundation (AU$65,000) and Protes Yles Theatre Group (10,000 euro). The grant to Desmos will support their Palliative Care Program delivered by Nosilia.
Desmos, one of the first charities in Greece that THI Australia partnered with, was represented by Lena Papalexopoulou, Vice-President, Desmos, who expressed immense gratitude.
“THI Australia’s significant assistance allows us to keep providing free of charge, holistic relief care at home to hundreds of vulnerable patients suffering from chronic and life-threatening diseases, while helping their families too,” Ms Papalexopoulou said.
“We are truly grateful for this support, which brings us one step closer to the goal of enabling every patient in Greece to receive the healthcare support that they need.”
The grant to Protes Yles, marks the introduction of THI Australia’s new Arts & Culture category, and will support the production of two theatrical plays, “The Mirror” and “The Sea Wall.”
As Greece’s arts sector continues to recover from the economic crisis, THI Australia’s commitment to fostering cultural growth and employment opportunities for artists provides hope and renewal.
“THI Australia’s generous support will make a significant difference to our productions. Equally important is the opportunity for beneficiaries of THI Australia’s programs to enjoy these performances,” Christos Lygas, Artistic Director of Protes Yles, said.
THI Australia looks forward to celebrating this milestone with all its friends at its Gala Dinner on 25 November 2024, at the Fullerton Hotel in Sydney.
