The Greek America Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by Pittsburgh, PA native Gregory C. Pappas with a mission to promote, preserve and perpetuate Greek culture, history and ideals. With a series of programs, scholarships, special events and other philanthropic endeavors, the foundation seeks to bring elements of Greek culture, history and heritage— also known as Hellenism — to the forefront of mainstream America, making it a relevant component of our followers’ everyday lives. The foundation offers various programs for young people. These programs include full tuition Semester in Athens scholarships for study abroad at the Hellenic American University. Also included is Greek America Corps, the foundation's summer volunteer branch which sends dozens of young North Americans to volunteer with accredited charities in Greece. The foundation hosts the Gabby Awards, a biennial celebration honoring "Greek America's Best and Brightest." Locations for past awards include Chicago, Ellis Island, Hollywood (LA) and New York City. Finally, the foundation also offers biennial recognition of "Greek America's Forty Under 40" to celebrate North Americans of Greek descent (under 40 yrs old) who excel professionally and philanthropically.