AHEPA
The Order of AHEPA is the fraternal organization for men. Its chapters bring members together for fellowship, civic engagement, and charitable work.
AHEPA Bergen Knights · Chapter 285
Our mission.
Our purpose.
The mission of AHEPA Bergen Knights Chapter 285 is to promote Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, and family and individual excellence.
Promoting Hellenism since 1922
Ideals that welcome everyone.
The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association was founded on July 26, 1922, in response to bigotry and discrimination against Greek immigrants in the United States. It helped new Americans of Hellenic descent find community and take part in civic life. From those beginnings, AHEPA grew into an international organization grounded in fellowship and service.
Today, the AHEPA Family's mission connects the ideals of ancient Greece with the needs of our communities today in support of human dignity. People of Greek heritage and friends who share these ideals are welcome to take part.
Daughters of Penelope
The women’s organization of the AHEPA Family connects members through friendship, leadership, cultural programs, and service.
Sons of Pericles
The young men’s organization helps members develop leadership, friendships, and a commitment to their communities.
Maids of Athena
The young women’s organization offers opportunities for leadership, fellowship, Hellenic cultural connection, and service.
The spirit behind the mission
What is Hellenism?
Hellenism is the living expression of Greek culture and its enduring principles: a respect for humanity, reason, learning, the arts, moderation, freedom, democracy, and civic responsibility. AHEPA keeps these ideas active through education, public discussion, volunteerism, and service to others.
Our guiding ideals
How we put our mission to work
Hellenism
We preserve and share Greek heritage and encourage people of all backgrounds to learn from its traditions and ideals.
Education
Scholarships, Hellenic studies, and youth programs help students learn, grow, and carry knowledge into the future. Bergen Knights members have also supported student teams in Hellenic history competitions.
AHEPA Educational Foundation ↗Philanthropy
Giving time and resources is central to our work. The AHEPA Family supports relief efforts, medical research, veterans, children, and neighbors in need through national and local projects.
Explore our charities →Civic responsibility
AHEPA encourages members to participate in civic life, speak with public leaders, and bring informed voices to issues affecting their communities and Hellenic heritage.
Family & individual excellence
We strive to grow as individuals while lifting up our families and communities. Fellowship, leadership, and service offer ways to practice these ideals together.
One shared mission
The AHEPA Family
AHEPA works alongside the Daughters of Penelope, the Sons of Pericles, and the Maids of Athena. Together, these four organizations offer opportunities for fellowship, leadership, and service across generations.
Each group brings its own energy to a common purpose: advancing Hellenic ideals and strengthening the communities we call home.
Our mission in Bergen County
Living these values since 1931.
Founded in Hackensack and now based in Tenafly, the Bergen Knights have carried AHEPA’s ideals into local action for generations. We build lasting friendships and support education, cancer research, veterans, and neighbors in need. Every member can help shape what that service looks like next.