What began 13 years ago as an emergency response by the Diaspora Greeks to their homeland’s economic collapse, has evolved today into a dynamic platform that brings people together, educates, supports, and sets a bright example.
The Hellenic Initiative (THI), founded in 2012 by Greeks and Philhellenes worldwide, is one of the most effective diaspora-led movements harnessing philanthropy to deliver tangible results.
TO BHMA International Edition sat down with Michael Printzos, THI’s Country Head in Greece, to learn how this dynamic platform is helping reshape the country’s future from the ground up.
A Mission That Evolved
“At its heart, THI unites Greeks around the world through philanthropy,” says Printzos. “The mission began as a rapid response during the economic crisis. At the time, the goal was to effectively meet immediate needs and build long-term resilience.”
But much has changed since then and THI’s focus expanded. “We adapted to new challenges: the refugee crisis, COVID-19, and catastrophic wildfires. We launched targeted relief funds, job initiatives, and environmental programs always aiming to support those most in need while laying the groundwork for lasting impact.”
THI recently launched the DARE Fund (Diaspora Action for Relief & Emergency), a dedicated emergency reserve designed to respond swiftly in times of crisis. Photo: THI
What makes the difference, he explains, is not just passion but execution, accountability, and staying actively involved.
“We measure returns, assess needs, identify the most effective solutions, scale what works, and most importantly, report back. This results-driven approach builds a symbiotic relationship: the Diaspora supports Greece, and Greece, in turn, offers back stories of resilience, innovation, and hope that re-energize the Diaspora’s connection to its roots,” he tells TO BHMA International Edition.
In short, he explains, THI has evolved into a trusted and transparent platform that channels generosity into real, measurable impact.
Giving Where It Matters
The New York-based organization’s work centers on two main pillars: economic development and humanitarian support. Since its foundation, THI has invested millions in Greece through hundreds of grants and raised more than $38 million, supporting entrepreneurship, job creation, and NGOs spanning from animal welfare and accessibility programs to food banks and the arts.
One of its most visible programs is “Plant a Tree”, launched after the deadly Mati fires in 2018. “That tragedy,” says Printzos, “was a national trauma”, and for many in the Diaspora, a turning point. “It was time to create something solid that would not only help restore Greece’s natural landscape but also mobilize people at home and abroad to become part of the change we all want to see.”
Since then, more than 25,000 trees have been planted in burned areas in Attica, Evia, the Peloponnese, and most recently, in Dioni, hit by the fires in 2024.
One of many THI tree planting events in Greece, contributing to much-needed forest regeneration after fires. Photo: THI
“This wasn’t just about reforestation,” says Printzos. “It was about turning grief into action. Tree planting days bring together schoolchildren, volunteers, locals, and diaspora members in a powerful act of healing and unity. The message is clear: you are not alone.”
A key priority for THI is accountability and staying actively involved. Photo: THI
THI recently launched the DARE Fund (Diaspora Action for Relief & Emergency), a dedicated emergency reserve designed to respond swiftly in times of crisis. Entirely donation-driven and free of overhead or administrative costs, the fund ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to those in need.
From Brain Drain to Brain Gain
One of THI’s key priorities is reversing the brain drain that followed Greece’s financial crisis, and which forced much of the country’s talent to emigrate in search of a better future. Fellowship and career development programs like ReGeneration, which connects university graduates with paid jobs in the private sector, have become game changers. “It’s now one of the most impactful job creation initiatives in Greece, having helped create nearly 5,000 jobs,” says Printzos.
Complementing this is Odyssea, a program equipping young people with technical and vocational training, especially those outside traditional university tracks. Together, these initiatives have generated hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impact. “And we’re just getting started,” he says.
In 2025, THI will host its first Annual Corporate Banquet in New York, with ReGeneration as the sole beneficiary, demonstrating the need to grow the program’s reach even further.
Empowering Through Sport
Inclusion and empowerment are at the heart of the THI Summer Youth Academy, an initiative for youth aged 10–17 from vulnerable backgrounds. The annual program is free.
“On the court, children receive expert basketball training; off the court, they build confidence, discipline, and life skills,” says Printzos. “It’s not just a camp, it’s a life-changing experience, and for THI, a powerful way to invest in the next generation, using sport as a tool for growth, inclusion, and hope.”
The annual THI Summer Youth Academy offering children in need the chance to train and grow. Photo: THI
Photo: THI
Strategic Philanthropy
With many nonprofits emerging in Greece post-crisis, THI stands out by being selective and strategic. “We don’t just fund, we identify, seed, and help scale the organizations with the greatest potential for long-term impact. We have a clear evaluation system that looks at financial transparency, governance, leadership, and effectiveness. Our goal is to support associations that are well-run, mission-driven, and ready to grow,” he explains.
THI’s venture philanthropy model blends private-sector thinking with grassroots philanthropy. Programs like the Venture Fair, VentureGarden, and Venture Impact Awards offer mentorship and seed funding to startups; many of which are now among Greece’s top tech success stories.
“These weren’t just grants, they were bets on the future. We connected young founders with diaspora mentors and investors. In many cases, that early support made all the difference.”
Growing the Global Network
Looking ahead, THI plans to deepen its commitment to job creation, climate resilience, and social inclusion, while expanding its global network of supporters.
A key priority, Printzos explains, is to get more people in the Diaspora involved: whether it’s through donations, mentorship, volunteering or spreading the word. “With a broader base of supporters, we can increase resources. And the more support we rally, the greater the change we can create in Greece,” he tells TO BHMA International Edition.
Get Involved
For Greeks and Philhellenes around the world, the message is clear: you can make a difference. Whether it’s attending a fundraiser, volunteering time, or simply sharing the mission, “there’s a place for everyone,” says Printzos. “THI is here to connect goodwill with real change. Just do it.”
