AHEPA programs and activities in the 20’s and 30’s included bringing together the pioneer business community and representing their interests to the local government and business leaders. Members
networked together and socialized, sharing stories about business and family life. It encouraged the Greek-American community to participate in civic affairs and to vote. Archie Zapatis got the vote out to elect Mr. Beecham to the senate. Phil O’Connell Sr., a local political leader and state attorney was a member of AHEPA. Joseph Farish, a prominent attorney is a life time member.

As the needs of the community changed the programs and activities of AHEPA and the Daughters changed.  They became more cultural and family oriented in the late 1930’s and 1940’s. They matured as an organization to the point where they needed a home to meet and celebrate so that as a community they could have a sense of place. The wives of AHEPANS encouraged them to purchase the synagogue that was for sale on Broward Avenue in West Palm Beach. This was accomplished in 1946 when Temple Beth Israel was purchased for $19,000 with a $6,500 down payment.

Many celebrations, gatherings, picnics, dances were organized in this AHEPA multipurpose community hall. It was in these times that both organizations were truly a partnership. Greek school classes were held here at no cost to the student. AHEPA paid a small stipend to Mrs. Eleftheria Pensos, the first Greek school teacher.  Mrs. Aphrodite Karatinos also taught Greek school for many years. Greek Independence Day celebrations were especially festive. Eventually Sunday school classes were held here too.  Mrs. Maria Elertis was the first Sunday school teacher. Eventually monthly Orthodox Christian religious services were held here and the AHEPA Hall became the informal home of the first Orthodox Christian Mission/Church in Palm Beach County.  Finally the present St. Catherine sanctuary was dedicated in 1957 and AHEPA was and remains her dedicated benefactor.  With the establishment of a formal church community with church organizations, the sense of AHEPA and the Daughters as an extended community family waned.

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