Φιλότιμο

Greek American Restaurant Association

The Greek American Restaurant Association (GARA) embodies this noble virtue. As a non-profit organization, GARA’s mission is to “preserve, perpetuate, and promote Greek culture, history, and ideals.” This mission is accomplished through three strategic programming areas: social and cultural events, educational scholarships, and charitable aid.

AboutDonation Request

A Brief History of GARA

Φιλότιμο (Philotimo), the highest of Greek virtues, encompasses honor, integrity, duty, pride, dignity, and courage. Derived from the Greek root words “filos” (friend) and “timi” (honor), Elder Saint Paisios beautifully defined philotimo as “the reverent distillation of goodness, the love shown by humble people, from which every trace of self has been filtered out. Their hearts are full of gratitude towards God and their fellow men, and out of spiritual sensitivity, they try to repay the slightest good which others do them.”

GARA’s vision is to foster a thriving community that celebrates and sustains Greek heritage. Through cultural events, educational scholarships, and charitable support, we aim to promote Greek traditions and principles widely and effectively, ensuring their enduring legacy.

Recent Scholarship Winner

Thomas Papaioannou

University of Illinois Urbana

Full Bio
Previous Winners

gara Supports

plutarchosacademy
st sophia
aristotles school
holy cross
Holy Apostles
pytha
gaods
St Johns Baptist
hellenicamericanacademy
Solon Greek School
Hippocratic Cancer Foundation
National Hellenic Museum
Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Centre
St Iakovos