Women’s Committee at the Federation

by Vivian Papamichael

The Meet and Greet of the newly formed Women’s Committee at the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York took place this past November and according to President Christina Kostakis-Kariotis “was a great success. Our goal is to unite our community.” She also emphasized that the purpose of the Committee’s efforts will be humanistic in nature.

From left, Sophia & Petros Galatoulas, President of the Federation, Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas and Christina Kostakis; PHOTO: ETA PRESS

Supporting the initiative are so far, Maria Zoitas, Alexandra Halaris, Katerina Zissouli, Vivian Papamichael, Maria Christoforatos, Eftychia Loizides, Xanthippi Karithrakas-Moshopoulos, Joanna Kyriakou and others. They all agreed that the aim is to unite the community and stress the need to bring together the community’s women….but not only the women.

Ms. Kostakis, visibly emotional, went on to thank the President of the Federation, Mr. Petros Galatoulas, for the honor bestowed on her when he offered the leadership role. Mr. Galatoulas in turn thanked the committee and the participants, emphasizing his strong belief in the role women play in bringing about change. He stated he was certain of their success and pledged his support by making the Stathakion Cultural Center available for the committee’s use as much as possible.

Events in the plans include a Blood Bank, a food pantry and drives for those in need in these difficult times, and free doctor’s checkups. By keeping a clear vision of goals and unwavering faith in the community, these endeavors will take place. Mr. Galatoulas concluded that if there were more women leaders, there certainly would be less war. Mothers know their children and what is best – it is in their nature.

Standing, from left, Alexandra Halaris, Eftychia Loizidis, Katerina Zissouli. Sitting, Penny Kaltsas, Christina Kostakis, Vivian Papamichael, Maria Zoitas, Vasiliki Alexopoulou; PHOTO: ETA PRESS

The purpose of the Meet and Greet was to exchange views. As the Committee President put it, “We are meeting for the first time and we want you to embrace our effort”. In addition Ms Kostakis noted that the choice of active members was not haphazard. The committee now has the opportunity to play an important role in the community. This is because the members are accomplished women and they are determined to reach the goals set forth.