The Daughters of Penelope, founded by Alexandra Apostolides on November 16, 1929, in San Francisco, California, is a unique organization born from her dream of creating a women’s group. With encouragement from her husband, Dr. Emanuel Apostolides, she established EOS Chapter #1 with 25 charter members and became the first Grand President in 1931. Since its inception, the organization has grown significantly, boasting over 300 chapters across metropolitan cities in the United States, solidifying its presence as a distinctive and influential entity.

A core focus of the Daughters of Penelope is education, with the Daughters of Penelope Foundation, Inc. providing scholarships internationally to high school seniors, college students, and postgraduates aspiring to be future leaders. The organization also actively engages in advocacy, communicating the Greek-American community’s positions on various issues to federal, state, and local representatives. Through seminars and conferences featuring experts from the U.S. Administration and renowned Washington think tanks, members are educated on significant issues, enabling effective mobilization.

Philanthropy and volunteerism are central to the Daughters of Penelope’s mission. The organization leads in charitable giving, from natural disaster relief to raising funds for combating life-threatening diseases and supporting local municipalities. They also address civic responsibilities by providing affordable housing for senior citizens through the AHEPA Housing Corporation, which has secured significant funding for senior housing complexes. Additionally, the Daughters of Penelope recognizes female athletes at various levels with scholarships and accolades, including induction into their Athletic Hall of Fame. Throughout its history, the organization has upheld the ideals of ancient Greece, contributing to the integration of Greek-American citizens into various facets of society and embodying the promise of the American Dream.