Laura was born in Greece and came over to the United States as a young girl. Adopted by a wonderful couple from High Point, NC, Laura learned to be active in church community and Philoptochos activities in her early teens through her parent's love of service.
Fourteen years ago, Laura's priest at the time, Fr. Nick Triantafilou, introduced her to the work of IOCC and how she could participate in helping fulfill Christ's command. At the time, the IOCC Committee Chair was unable to continue in this role, and Laura stepped up to take on the challenge. "I have a great need to help my fellow man, and IOCC gives me this opportunity," Laura said. "I have learned that wishing to help is not enough – it takes hard work, determination, and tenacity – setting a goal and driving yourself till it's met." And Laura has done just that, joining the IOCC Board of Directors in January of 2009.
Last year, Laura and the IOCC Charlotte Metropolitan Committee raised funds at their 9th Annual Dinner, but she doesn't believe this is enough. "My dream would be to see IOCC a household word as well known, for instance, as Red Cross or World Vision."
Laura is married to her long time husband Tom and together they have two children and four grandchildren. She actively serves on local, metropolis, and national Philoptochos, was treasurer of the Parish Council, president of the Daughters of Evrytania (12 chapters), and became the first woman on the Evrytanian Association Velouchi's Board of Directors (18 chapters).
If you would like to know how you can become involved in raising awareness and funds for IOCC like Laura, please contact Megan Carniewski, IOCC Outreach Coordinator at mcarniewski@iocc.org or toll free at 877-803-4622.
