Ladies Philoptochos Society

Our St Demetrios Philoptochos is dedicated to helping our parish and the Cleveland community. Come join us and learn more about our efforts.

You define what kind of member you will be. We are always looking for new skills, experiences and personalities – without them we would not be 26,000 members strong nationwide.

We welcome you with open arms to join us in making a difference.  If you can’t make very many meetings, that’s ok, choose the projects you’d like to help with, we will keep you informed by email.

You may ask, isn’t Philoptochos mostly older women?  We get the reputation because many of our members joined years ago and have continued because they believe in our mission. But we welcome all ages! The young members bring fresh ideas while the older ones have experiences to share. 

Board Officers

  • President: Pela Telidis

  • Vice Presidents: Irene Georgantas, DKA Amy Pantelis

  • Treasurer: Ann Frangos

  • Budget: Mari-beth Famiano

  • Adviser: Crystal Thomas

  • Secretaries: Joanne Harootunian, Elpida Kosmidis

  • Membership: Jeanne Paras

  • Other Board Members: Cathy Bitounis, Marina Ermidis, Litta Klidas, Popi Kopasakis, Barb Pasalis, Stephanie Zavatchen

Other Contacts

  • FOCUS Friends: Linda Glynias

  • Memorial Tray (Κóλυβα/Koluva):
    Koula Callas, Christina Carpadis

  • Sunshine Committee:
    Elpida Kosmidis

  • Welfare: Crystal Thomas

Here are some of the ways our local chapter has helped our community:

  • Assists parish families and local families in need

  • Monthly support to needy families and individuals

  • Visits to sick and homebound parishioners

  • Serves parish coffee hours for memorials

  • Preparing and serving dinner each month at St. Herman House of Hospitality, a homeless shelter in Cleveland’s west side.

  • Providing support to the Bridge Avenue School, a Christian charter school in Cleveland, including establishing a ”Comfort Closet” at the school.

We have also supported: