The Rev. John Mamangakis and Dennis Starr from St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church recently met with Will Armstead, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, to donate part of the proceeds from the 38th annual Original Greek Festival, held in Fort Pierce.

Church members have put in hundreds of hours over the last 38 years to volunteer their time, energy and cooking skills and talents to showcase their Greek heritage. Due to their efforts, thousands of visitors to the festival are able to enjoy the live Greek music and dancing, authentic Greek foods, and imported Greek wines, beers and other beverages.

For the past two years, BGC members have volunteered at the Greek Festival to bus tables and help in other areas.

“Once again we are thrilled to nurture our relationship with the Boys & Girls Clubs and their young members,” said Starr, one of the organizers of the Original Greek Festival. “The kids worked hard and did a great job. It is a true pleasure to work with them.”

The annual Greek Festival is a major fundraiser for St. Nicholas Church. Each year, the proceeds are distributed to local community organizations that the church supports, among them Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boys & Girls Clubs and Hospice of The Treasure Coast. The dates for next year’s Greek Festival are Feb. 9-11.

“We hope that everyone can join us and learn a little about our Greek heritage,” added Starr.

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church is located at 2525 S. 25th Street, Fort Pierce. For more information, call 696-4776.