Leadership 100 Executive Committee Approves $250,000 Gift To Rebuild Devastated Ionian Village in Greece

The Leadership 100 Executive Committee, at a special meeting on December 20, 2016, unanimously approved a gift of $250,000 toward the rebuilding of the Ionian Village, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Summer Camp in Greece, which was devastated by a tornado formed in the Ionian Sea making landfall on September 8, 2016, according to George S. Tsandikos, Chairman.

Tsandikos stated: “The Ionian Village has been the centerpiece of the Archdiocese youth program and has introduced generations of Greek American Orthodox youth to their Faith and Heritage in a hospitable environment.”

While there was massive damage inflicted on the camp, no one was injured. Most buildings remain intact, but almost everything else, from air conditioners and water heaters to doors and windows, suffered major damage, according to Fr. Evagoras Constantinides, Ionian Village Director. “Also, more than 600 trees were either ripped from the ground or broken apart due to the heavy winds, eliminating almost every tree on the campus,” he added.

The total estimated cost of repair, which also includes the exterior of the Chapel and cross on top of the dome, driveways, walkways and fences, housing complex for animals, the lighting system, basketball court and amphitheater, is $1,500,000. A major Ionian Village Rebuilding Fundraising effort is underway among individuals, parishes, Greek Orthodox organizations and other foundations and entities.