Between Greece & The Diaspora: The Mission Of Daughters Of Penelope Hesperus 359
- by XpatAthens
- Monday, 12 January 2026
Together, Anna and Eva represent the heart of Hesperus 359, a chapter rooted in love, philanthropy, and the desire to give back. Their story is one of continuity and connection, bridging Greece and the diaspora, tradition and modern life, and reminding us that service has the power to unite cultures and generations alike.
Anna & Eva
For those who may not be familiar, could you briefly explain what the Daughters of Penelope do and what Hesperus in particular does?
Anna:
The Daughters of Penelope is a fraternal philanthropic organization within the AHEPA family and is the largest women’s organization of its kind in the world. Our mission focuses on philanthropy, education, Hellenism, cultural identity, civic responsibility, and women’s empowerment. We engage in both fundraising and hands-on service, supporting children, families, educational programs, health initiatives, and vulnerable communities in Greece and across the diaspora.
Hesperus 359 is unique because we are based in Greece while maintaining strong ties with the Greek Diaspora. Our members come from diverse professional, cultural, and international backgrounds, and we collaborate closely with local institutions and organizations. We are especially proud that our chapter has been officially recognized by both the Hellenic government and the U.S. Embassy in Greece for our philanthropic and community work, an acknowledgment that validates the impact of our mission and reinforces our commitment to serve with integrity.
Eva:
Our main philanthropic activities include supporting the Unborn Child Center, scholarships, and fundraising for the Maids of Athena Fund, as well as contributions to the LAM Foundation in the U.S. We assist unwed mothers and victims of domestic violence, support Agia Sophia Children’s Hospital and Evangelismos Hospital, and provide aid to fire victims in Laconia and Ilia and flood victims in Kineta and Karditsa. We also support children with special needs, the Multiple Sclerosis Association, the Penelopio Foundation, and provide pharmaceuticals to SOS Children’s Villages.
Additionally, we annually support scholarships at the American Farm School and donate heating fuel, clothing, tablets, school supplies, and treats to the Hatzikyriakeio Foundation. We provide clothing donations to St. Varvara Church and the Center of Love in Elefsina, assist the nonprofit SYMMERIZOMAI, and support the special Youth Detention Facility of Avlona.
We also provide meals for senior citizens, including full Easter meals at St. Therapon Senior Citizens Hall and food donations to the Saint Apostol’s Senior Citizens Home in Tzitzifies and St. Spyridon Food Bank in Pagkrati. We purchase and donate books at Book Garden Bookstore in Koukaki, with proceeds supporting organizations in Athens that help abused women. Following our collaboration with Alexis Kliropoulos’ volunteer blood donation team, we also donated food to the Philoptochos of St. Nicholas Flarios in Kalamata, feeding 120 families.
Our donations to the Seniors Homes & Food Banks
How do you choose which causes to support, and what criteria guide your choice?
Anna:
The first criterion is legality. Unfortunately, there are organizations and individuals who try to take advantage of people’s kindness. One of the strengths of our chapter —and the organization as a whole— is that we donate goods, not money. This helps ensure transparency.
If an organization refuses to accept goods, it’s usually a red flag, and we don’t continue supporting them. On the other hand, when organizations are transparent and accountable, everything runs smoothly. For instance, one year Hatzikyriakeio needed gas for heating; they sent us the bill, and we covered the expense. That’s exactly the kind of partnership we value: clear, responsible, and trustworthy.
We also stay closely involved: we visit, monitor, and ask for legal documentation and paperwork.
Eva:
All decisions are made by the board. We always hold board meetings; it’s never just two people deciding where donations go. It’s all about teamwork and careful oversight.
In what ways do you think that Hesperus embodies the ideals of the daughters of Penelope, but also addresses unique Greek needs?
Anna:
One of the key things about Hesperus is that the only official requirement is that members be women of the Christian faith who believe in God and uphold the ideals of Hellenism, education, philanthropy, family, and civic responsibility. What makes our chapter unique, though, is that it was the first Greek-American chapter, established 44 years ago by Greek-American women. This is particularly meaningful for many expats who come to Greece and they are looking for a sense of family and belonging.
When I first moved here, I struggled to adjust to Greek society. Living here is very different from visiting on vacation. In the U.S., I felt fully Greek, but here I was the “amerikanaki”. In searching for a community, I initially joined the American Women’s Organization of Greece, and I discovered that most of their members were also part of Hesperus. That’s how I found both friendship and a sense of home. Hesperus connects the Greek-American community while honoring Greek traditions, and that balance is what sets us apart.
Eva:
I had a similar experience when I moved here. As a young person, I faced challenges with a new language, culture, and daily life. While I was fortunate not to experience bullying and had many good times meeting new people, I wanted to join an organization that connected both my Greek and American roots. My parents were very involved in nonprofit work in the U.S., and that inspired me to find a community that bridged both cultures.
Anna:
Living in Greece as an expat comes with its difficulties. You can’t expect it to be the United States. You have to embrace Greek reality as it is. Many expats reach out to me, frustrated with the adjustment, and my advice is always: “If you can’t beat them, join them.” Once I embraced that mindset, my life here became much easier.
Hesperus embodies the ideals of the Daughters of Penelope by fostering philanthropy, education, Hellenism, and community, while also addressing the unique needs of Greeks abroad. For example, last year at the European Daughters of Penelope Conference in Stuttgart, we attended a celebration for the Greek Language Day. Greek schools from a 100 km radius participated with songs, dances, and cultural performances. Listening to the children there, I was reminded of growing up in the U.S. and realized the profound impact of nurturing Greek pride across generations. Hesperus plays a similar role in helping expats and locals alike feel connected to their heritage, ensuring that the spirit of Greece thrives far beyond its borders.
What’s the story behind the “Daughters of Penelope” and “Hesperus” names, and what do they symbolize for your chapter?
Eva:
Both names are deeply symbolic. The “Daughters of Penelope” refers to the mythological figure Penelope, wife of Odysseus. She embodies loyalty, patience, and devotion to home and family, waiting faithfully for Odysseus’s return These virtues, loyalty, commitment to family, and devotion to one’s roots, reflect the core principles of the Daughters of Penelope: dedication to Hellenism, family, community, and the wider world.
“Hesperus” is the ancient Greek name for the planet Venus when it appears in the evening sky. It symbolizes light shining in darkness, guidance, and beauty. In mythology, Hesperus is also the god/spirit of the west or the ‘evening,’ linked to the Hesperides, the nymphs who guarded the golden apples, symbols of harmony and virtue. Because the evening star consistently returns at sunset, Hesperus became a symbol of hope, guidance, calm, and reflection.
Our chapter was named Hesperus to convey this symbolism: a guiding light for women and the community, connecting us to Greek heritage, embodying harmony and virtue, and emphasizing in Hellenism, hope and continuity.
Hesperus 359’s Senior Members
What is your vision for Hesperus?
Anna:
Our vision is to expand our outreach, strengthen our collaborations with trusted institutions, engage younger women and professionals, and develop sustainable programs that will continue benefiting the community long after my presidency ends. That’s key: organizations can’t thrive without new energy and fresh ideas. We need young blood to carry the mission forward, and that’s exactly what we’re focused on: attracting young professional women who share our vision and can take the organization into the future.
We were thrilled at our last Thanksgiving event to see so many young participants. Other chapters also brought their younger members, and it was inspiring.
Eva:
Absolutely, young people are our future.
Can you share a moment or story when you directly saw the impact your contributions had?
Anna:
There have been many touching moments, but this one is etched in my heart. During a visit to a foundation we support, a little girl — no more than seven years old — came up to me and pointed to the bags we were carrying. She quietly asked what was inside. I told her they were clothes. She paused, looked up at me, and then asked, almost in a whisper, “Are they new?” When I said yes, she didn’t say another word — she simply hugged me tightly and held on. That hug said everything. In that moment, I realized how something we may take for granted can mean the world to a child, and why this work truly matters.
Another memory is from before COVID. I would visit a Senior’s home regularly, spending a couple of hours a month helping out, keeping company, making coffee, playing cards, and singing with the elderly residents. One elderly man in particular loved having me there to play cards with him. On one visit, he mentioned that he missed trachana, so I got in touch with my aunt in the village who sent some, and we organized a little “trachana party” with the residents. Seeing their joy in these simple moments was incredibly rewarding.
Another story I’ll never forget comes from our former president, who was also my mentor. She shared how the chapter had supported a woman during her pregnancy, providing clothes, guidance, and care. That woman was able to get off the streets, finish high school, and eventually become a professional. Hearing that story and seeing the long-term impact of our support was profoundly moving.
How can someone get involved, and what do you think inspires women to join your chapter today?
Eva:
Women who join Hesperus have the opportunity to meet new people and get involved in the community. It’s a chance to connect with others beyond their usual circles and activities.
Anna:
Exactly. At its core, we are a community, a family. If someone is looking for friendship, support, and a sense of belonging, they will find it here. Anyone can attend our events, volunteer with us, or explore membership in the chapter. Being involved in our activities is one of the most meaningful ways to feel connected and truly at home in a new country.
Looking toward the future, what are the chapter’s most important goals for the next few years?
Anna:
Our top priority is bringing in younger members, the “new blood.” That’s essential for the chapter’s continuity. For example, over the past few years, I’ve had to travel back and forth due to my mother’s health issues. When I’m away, the chapter struggles to coordinate activities, and while Eva does an excellent job, she can’t do it alone. We need passionate, committed members who are ready to step in and carry the work forward. An organization like ours can’t simply pause: it’s vital to ensure that our mission continues no matter what challenges arise.
At the Chatzikiriakio donation of clothing and tablets in 2025
What do you want the legacy of Hesperus to be in Greece?
Eva:
That everything we do comes from the heart.
Anna:
Exactly. Without asking for anything in return. We don’t go chasing money or donations, we give everything from the heart. That’s our legacy.
And if you could send a message to the original members from 1981, what would you tell them about how far their vision has come?
Eva:
A big thank you and a promise that we will do our very best to make you proud. It is truly an honor to serve an organization whose founding members were strong, visionary women, driven solely by their love and care for their fellow human beings. Your vision not only endured, it continues to inspire us every single day.
Anna’s Final Message:
At the heart of everything we do is one simple belief: service unites people beyond borders, cultures, and backgrounds. Through the Daughters of Penelope Hesperus 359, and as part of the greater AHEPA family, we are honored to serve Greece with love, respect, and purpose.
I am deeply grateful to work alongside dedicated women who lead with integrity, compassion, and strength. To everyone reading this, I encourage you to get involved in your community in any way you can. When we give with our hearts, we don’t just change lives, we also change ourselves. Together, we are building bridges of service, hope, and unity, one act of kindness at a time.
This conversation was deeply inspiring and eye-opening, offering a meaningful glimpse into the impactful work Anna, Eva, and the members of Hesperus 359 carry out with such dedication and heart. Their commitment to service, community, and cultural connection is a powerful reminder that giving back doesn’t always begin with donations.
We invite everyone to consider getting involved through volunteering, offering time, skills, or simply compassion. The work of Hesperus proves that meaningful change is built through human connection, consistency, and care. We are grateful for the opportunity to share their story and to shine a light on the remarkable difference they make!
LIFE & CULTURE
