Gara Strengthens Bonds with Impactful Donations and Heartfelt Engagement in Events
GARA's History
Proud members of the Greek American Restaurant Association honoring Greek Independence Day with a vibrant float and festive spirits at the 2023 Greektown parade.
GARA Treasurer, Nick Gountanis, presents a check to Rev. Fr. Thomas Alatzakis, in support of the Sunday School Program at St. Demetrios Libertyville.
GARA Treasurer, Nick Gountanis, presents a check to Maria Kroll, Principal of Guardian Angel Orthodox Day School, and Maria Mavromati, Greek Language Director of Guardian Angel Orthodox Day School in support of the Greek Schools at St. Johns.
The Greek American Restaurant Association (GARA) generously donated $5,000 to the National Hellenic Society, which funds The Heritage Greece Program. This two-week cultural and educational immersion experience is designed for Greek American college students, aiming to reconnect them with their heritage, roots, language, traditions, and Greek identity.
GARA President, Sam Markos, presents Effie Hatzopoulos with a check to aid in her studies at Boston College.
“…Receiving this gratuitously charitable scholarship has been a blessing…I hope my story encourages you all to continue giving to others as you have been, as your support truly makes a great difference in the lives of those in need...”
In 2011, the Greek American Restaurant Association (GARA) proudly contributed to the establishment of the National Hellenic Museum. In recognition of GARA's support, the museum prominently features a sign in the foyer that acknowledges the association's generous contributions
The Runners sculpture, a 16-foot artwork at O’Hare International Airport, was funded by the Athens Committee of CSCI with generous contributions from GARA. Demetrios Kozonis, Chair of the Athens Committee at the time, remarked, “This gift symbolizes the significant Greek population in Chicago and highlights the enduring history of friendship, goodwill, and cultural exchange between Chicago and its Sister City of Athens.
His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago and Mr. Paul Loupakos, President of the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center, present Steve Theofanous with a plaque in gratitude for GARA’s generous $50,000 donation sponsoring the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center Outdoor Patio
GARA Treasurer, Nick Gountanis, presents a check to Maria Kroll, Principal of Guardian Angel Orthodox Day School, and Maria Mavromati, Greek Language Director of Guardian Angel Orthodox Day School in support of the Greek Schools at St. Johns.
GARA President, Sam Markos, presents a check to Dimitris Georgakopoulos, President of Athena Educational Academy, in support of the Greek School.
GARA donated Chicago Fire tickets to GARC members for Greek Heritage Night.