For almost a century, members of the American Hellenic Educational and Progressive Association (AHEPA) have been gathering annually for their national conventions in cities throughout the nation — and world.

The conventions are, for some, a place to meet and deliberate about the various projects that the organization will undertake for the coming year.

For others the gatherings have been a place for golfing, tennis, Greek dancing and other recreational events.

Often times people only see their AHEPA friends from other states only at the national conventions, so these annual gatherings become places of reunion and rekindling of bonds.

Through AHEPA — as well as the women’s auxiliary, known as the Daughters of Penelope, and the young adult affiliates, the Sons of Pericles and the Maids of Athena — lifelong bonds were formed over the years among people from all corners of the nation.

And of course — everyone knows someone who met their husband or wife at an AHEPA convention?

Many people even recall specific years or locations — “Atlantic City 1978… she was dancing with her girlfriends and I interjected myself into the kalamatiano… the rest is history.”

As AHEPA prepares for its 97th annual convention in Chicago from July 1-6, The Pappas Post is trying collect YOUR AHEPA stories from years past…

Who did you meet? When? What special memories do you have from an AHEPA convention?

What’s YOUR Ahepa story?

Share your AHEPA story and become part of a special online centennial campaign The Pappas Post is undertaking to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the organization’s founding in 2022.

You can send an email with your AHEPA story, photos, and details to [email protected]