"Gratitude is the explicit effort to acknowledge that all I am and have is given to me as a gift of love, a gift to be celebrated with joy." - Henri Nouwen

It is with great joy and appreciation that Project Mexico & the St. Innocent Orphanage announces the recent estate gift from John Phillip Giannikas. On September 7, 2018 Mr. Giannikas, “Phillip” passed from this life into eternal rest in the Lord. At the age of 57, his death was clearly premature. His family and friends mourn the loss but celebrate his relentless perseverance in bringing hope to the world.

Phillip was a true philanthropist. He was also an accomplished attorney, Administrative Law Judge, actor, singer, songwriter, musician, as well as a beloved son, nephew, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. His legacy shines with his sustained commitment to helping children without parents. He understood the vulnerability of orphaned children and the responsibility that we all have to care for them.

The recent gift from his estate will go entirely to supporting the St. Innocent Orthodox Orphanage for years to come. In addition, his generosity is a reminder for all of us in this holiday season to help care for God’s little ones.

Project Mexico and the St. Innocent Orphanage would like to thank Mrs. Angeliki Pentheroudakis, Phillip’s mother, for raising such a beautiful son. May his memory be eternal. As we approach the celebration of the birth of Christ, may we all follow his example and share our abundance so that children in need can always have the St. Innocent Orphanage as the safe place to call home.