Friends of Homer Association

The Ithaca Friends of Homer Association (IFHA) is a nonprofit organization based in Ithaca, Greece, dedicated to promoting and celebrating the cultural and literary heritage of the ancient Greek poet Homer. Founded in 2010 by scholars and enthusiasts, IFHA aims to foster a deeper appreciation of Homer’s works, particularly the Iliad and the Odyssey, through a variety of educational and community activities.

Mission and Goals

Mission: To preserve, promote, and enhance the understanding of Homer’s literary legacy through educational outreach, public events, and community engagement.

Goals:

1. Educational Outreach: Organize lectures, workshops, and seminars on Homeric literature and its impact on Western culture.
2. Public Events: Host readings, performances, and discussions of Homer’s works to make them accessible to a broader audience.
3. Community Engagement: Collaborate with local schools, libraries, and cultural institutions to integrate Homeric studies into their programs.
4. Scholarship Support: Provide scholarships and grants to students and researchers focusing on Homeric studies.

Activities and Programs

1. Annual Homer Festival: A signature event featuring public readings of the Iliad and the Odyssey, theatrical performances, and interactive workshops on ancient Greek culture and literature.
2. Lecture Series: Monthly talks by renowned scholars, authors, and translators on topics related to Homer’s epics, their themes, and their relevance today.
3. Educational Programs: Collaborations with local schools to develop curriculum materials and classroom activities centered on Homer’s works.
4. Translation Contests: Competitions for students and amateur translators to present their versions of selected passages from Homer, with prizes and publication opportunities.
5. Homeric Reading Group: A community reading group that meets regularly to read and discuss sections of the Iliad and the Odyssey in a supportive and interactive environment.
6. Digital Resources: An online library of articles, essays, and multimedia resources related to Homeric literature, including recordings of past lectures and performances.

Community Impact

IFHA has a significant impact on the local and academic community by:

• Enhancing the appreciation of classical literature and its modern-day applications.
• Providing educational resources and opportunities for students and teachers.
• Creating a vibrant cultural scene in Ithaca through diverse and inclusive public events.

Membership and Support

Membership: Open to anyone interested in Homeric literature and culture. Members receive benefits such as early access to event tickets, discounts on programs, and exclusive newsletters.

Support: Funded through membership fees, donations, and grants. Volunteers and sponsors are vital to sustaining IFHA’s programs and initiatives.

Overall, the Ithaca Friends of Homer Association serves as a vital cultural and educational institution, enriching the community’s engagement with one of the foundational figures of Western literature.