“Our AHEPA Chapter Garden State #517 was founded on April 15,1995 under the leadership of Paul A. Stamoulis. The first executive board consisted of Paul Stamoulis, Zack Moros, Steve Drogaris and Frank George. The objective of ourChapter was to increase our participation in community affairs as well as support the District in a Variety of civic projects with impact throughout our two “patrides”.
We undertook some challenging projects which included the sponsorship of Vietnam Memorial Day in HolmdelRecognizing all the Orthodox Christians from New jersey who perished during that war. Another project which we initiated was fund raising for merit
Based scholarships for the youth of AHEPA family.
In addition, our chapter is supporting the district in key efforts towards fund raising for
Other causes such as cancer research.
Since our operations are based at the church facilities of Kimisis Tis Theotokou our<
Chapter decided to undertake the completion of Greek School classrooms on the second
Floor of our Community Center and as such contribute to the perpetuation, study
And advancement of Hellenic culture and traditions.”
AHEPA Holmdel Chapter 517 was established to serve the growing Hellenic-American community in Monmouth County and the surrounding region. Inspired by the national mission of the Order of AHEPA—Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family—the chapter formed as a local brotherhood dedicated to preserving Greek heritage while serving the broader Holmdel community.
In its early years, Chapter 517 focused on helping families acclimate to American life, strengthening ties with local Greek Orthodox parishes, and participating in regional AHEPA District activities. Membership quickly grew as local leaders, business owners, and community volunteers joined the chapter’s mission.
Throughout its history, Holmdel Chapter 517 has been an active contributor to civic life in the area. The chapter has supported:
Scholarships for Greek-American youth
Parish ministries and festivals
Local charitable causes in Holmdel and Monmouth County
AHEPA’s national philanthropic initiatives, including veterans’ programs and disaster-relief efforts
The chapter has consistently promoted philotimo, fellowship, and service—values that define its presence in the community.
Chapter 517 plays an important part in AHEPA District 5 (New Jersey & Delaware), participating annually in district conventions, mid-winter conferences, and statewide initiatives. Members have served in various district roles and contributed to statewide programs supporting education, civic leadership, and Hellenic outreach.
Today, Holmdel Chapter 517 continues to strengthen:
Membership development
Youth engagement
Collaboration with local churches and community organizations
Support for national AHEPA programs, including Service Dogs for Warriors, Hellenic history initiatives, and veterans’ affairs
The chapter remains a proud ambassador of Hellenic culture in New Jersey, honoring its traditions while preparing for a vibrant future.
Copyright. All Rights Reserved. AHEPA Chapter 517, John G. Thevos Fifth District.
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