Institutions are crucial in preserving a strong Greek community in Astoria and maintaining its core values. The Greek schools in Astoria, specifically Saint Demetrios, allow for Greek American children to be taught Greek culture, history, and traditions while learning the American curriculum as well. Additionally, the increasing Greek population caused a spike in the number of Greek Orthodox churches in Astoria which allowed the immigrants to express not only their religious beliefs, but the many cultural practices that go along with the Greek Orthodox religion. The Hellenic Federations is an umbrella organization, of the local Greek Federations, covering the needs and supporting the morals of both their country of origin, Greece, and country of dwelling, the USA. The GreekAmerican Retirement Club is essential in providing a place for the elderly of the Greek Americans to maintain community and Greek tradition as they grow older in the United States. These institutions vary in terms of the ages of the members or specific ideas they are trying to convey, but they all remain centered on improving Greek life in Astoria.