VIRTUAL Serv-X-Treme Conference—Apply Now
We are so excited about our upcoming VIRTUAL Serv-X-Treme youth conference from July 26-29! Rising high school seniors are encouraged to apply or be nominated by their bishop. This conference is a great opportunity for young people to gain a deeper understanding of Orthodox philanthropy and diakonia (service) through leadership-building activities, workshops, and hands-on service. During the four day virtual conference, young people will have the opportunity to forge new friendships, put their understanding of Orthodox philanthropy into practice, and so much more. Learn more at iocc.org/servx.
Thank You – Virtual 5K Success!
On June 27, IOCC volunteers from across the country laced-up for a Virtual 5K at home—safely and socially distanced—and we exceeded our fundraising goal! More than 150 people, including clergy, parishes, and 12 teams joined in from across the country to make their miles matter and support of IOCC’s ongoing humanitarian work around the world. Special thanks go to our top fundraisers: Rev. Fr. George Lamberis, Rev. Dr. David Smith, Mr. George Giolas, and IOCC’s Board Chair, Mr. Mark Stavropoulos. And, thanks to TEAM IOCC for supporting IOCC’s work and sharing your beautiful race day photos!
NEW: Prayer Journal Lessons for Families
While families are staying at home together, IOCC’s digital Prayer Journal is a great tool to learn about what the Orthodox Church is doing through IOCC in the US and the world. COMING SOON: Our NEW lesson guide companion piece will share activities parents and kids can enjoy together, at home, using the digital version of the prayer journal.
IOCC’s prayer journal guides you through our inspiration scripture in Matthew 25 with stories of families IOCC has helped around the world. Together, let’s pray for each of them, offer thanks for what we have, and pray for each other.
Print copies for your parish or group are also available; order here. IOCC is pleased to cover the cost of the journals, and fulfillment.
IOCC Care Calls—Available Now
IOCC is offering a tool to guide you and your parish in reaching out to those who may need some emotional and spiritual care during this challenging time. If someone’s feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or experiencing negative feelings in the current situation, a care call from a friend or acquaintance can have a very positive impact.
The care call provides an intentional space for a person to share what they are experiencing in the present crisis, validate feelings, and explore resources that can help.
Our mission is inspired by Christ’s love for all, and our work meets the highest standards of professional care. Download the Care Calls Guide & Script at iocc.org/CareCall and get started today.
At-Home Activities Now Available
Are you looking for a way to help others or engage with IOCC while social distancing? We’ve created a list of activities that you can do safely from your home, including creating face masks and assembling emergency kits. Visit our COVID resource page at iocc.org/covid19 for more information and the latest updates from IOCC.
Help Transform Lives! Schedule a Virtual Fundraiser or Event
Are you looking for a powerful way to get engaged? We’re looking for volunteers to help host virtual fundraisers or events over the next few months as we are asked to observe social distancing. Ideas include a virtual auction, dedicating a birthday, honoring a loved one, or even running a virtual race. Want to know how to get started? Reach out to us at 410.243.9820 or outreach@iocc.org.
COVID-19 Update
As the effects of COVID-19 continue to impact the world, we take this opportunity to reflect, learn and adapt. In response to the global pandemic that has put our world at a standstill, we are focusing on two actionable ways to serve those in need in the following ways:
Facilitate Peer-to-Peer Emotional Support
Engaging leading experts from a diverse group of disciplines to create a unique series of tools that anyone can use.
Provide Basic Human Needs
Adapting IOCC programs to offer food, medical care, and economic security while also protecting our workers.
For more info about IOCC’s COVID-19 response as well as resources, visit iocc.org/covid19.
Home Build Volunteer Opportunities
As we all live through this time of social distancing, IOCC’s home build activities have been temporarily postponed. IOCC is committed to continuing our work in the US through helping to rebuild homes affected by natural disasters. Please keep an eye on our US Programs page at iocc.org/us for opportunities to volunteer as soon as it is safe to do so!
Upcoming Events
Interested in planning your own virtual event to raise awareness about IOCC? Get one on the calendar today! We’d love to help you organize one, so please contact IOCC’s Outreach team at 410.243.9820 or outreach@iocc.org.
- August 16: Chicago, IL—Virtual Event to Benefit IOCC
IOCC Awareness Events
Denver, CO
On June 7, the Denver Metropolitan Committee organized its first virtual IOCC event. Participants from near and far joined to hear a keynote address from Dimitrije Djukic, IOCC’s Manager of Middle East Programs, who shared personal stories from his time in the field. Fr. Louis Christopulos offered prayers, and Elaine Cladis, IOCC Board Member and Denver Metropolitan Committee Chair, welcomed everyone and presented a brief message from the committee. IOCC Development Officer Nick Kasemeotes emceed the evening, and IOCC Executive Director and CEO Constantine Triantafilou spoke briefly before fielding a Q&A session with questions from the audience. Special thanks to the IOCC Denver Committee and to the generous donors who helped to exceed the fundraising goal for this event–what a great evening!