40th Anniversary Gala will be commemorating PhilHellene of the Year.
The Greek Children’s Fund 40th Anniversary Gala will be commemorating those who have generously volunteered their time over the past four decades, as well as honoring Ms. Marina Tsotsos and Ms. Ismini Michaels as the Greek Children’s Fund 2023 “PhilHellene of the Year.”
Marina Tsotsos’ remarkable journey began in 1954 when she immigrated to the United States, from her hometown Skoura, Sparti. She carved a loving family life alongside her husband, George Tsotsos, and their three children, Antonia, Bobby, and Spiro. Marina’s love and nurturing spirit extended to her role as a grandmother to Stratton, Valerie, Marina M., Marina T., George, Andy, and Michael, and as a great-grandmother to Anastasia and John. Marina’s involvement with the Greek Children’s Fund started at its inception when Stanley Matthews (founder of the Greek Children’s Fund) sought her assistance to plan the organization’s first-ever fundraiser dance. This marked the beginning of her profound commitment to the cause. Over two decades, she devoted her time in helping organize various events alongside many dear friends and members that raised funds to support the organization.
Ismini Michaels has been a Greek Children’s Fund volunteer for the last 40 years. She is an indispensable member of the organization and has served as treasurer since 1994. Among her countless contributions, Ismini has been responsible for building strong relations with the Cypriot community, with singer Anna Vissi and with other Greek and Cypriot-American organizations and businesses in the New York area. She recruited volunteers and supported the establishment of the Fund’s Young Adult Division. She is trusted and respected by all past and present members for her loyalty, generosity and for being ready to lend a helping hand at any time. “For me, the Greek Children’s Fun represents the hope that we give to a young child battling a devastating illness, a reassuring smile to alleviate a fear, and the simple act of comforting those that are in need. I made a promise to myself and in my husband’s memory, that I will continue, for as long as I live, to work as hard as I can, for this wonderful organization that has helped so many, providing so much.”
