Aknashen, Armenia–The Paros Foundation successfully completed its Multipurpose Classroom Project at the Aknashen School for Children with Speech Disabilities, one of its 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, through the generous sponsorship of Adam & Rita Kablanian (CA), Paul & Esther Kulhanjian (MI) and Paul & Sosy Hachigian (CA).  The Paros Foundation underwrote all administrative expenses allowing the sponsor contributions to be spent 100% on the project.

“For these kids, speech therapy is the only shot they have at avoiding a life of difficulties.” Said Peter Abajian, Executive Director of The Paros Foundation.  “Successfully addressing this issue will enable them to enjoy a normal primary education.”

The School, which is located in the village of Aknashen in the Armavir province of Armenia, provides speech therapy to children ages 3 to 7.  The Aknashen School is the only school specializing in speech therapy in the region, and is housed in a building provided to the School by the Village Municipality.

With this facility now, they can meet today’s demand and fulfill the needs of tomorrow’s children.  The Aknashen School has become a happy place where children can obtain their needed therapy.  In the winter months and during inclement weather, the classroom provides a comfortable play area for the children as well. Local villagers were engaged with this project and donated their time, resources and talents to the successful implementation of this project, and when possible, both local materials and labor was used to help stimulate the local economy.

Many classrooms throughout Armenia’s schools remain in deplorable conditions and with your help, we can fix this one classroom at a time. Children should not have to learn in these conditions. Because of substandard doors and windows, many classrooms become unusable in the winter months because of the cold. Please make a generous contribution today in your family’s name and lets work together to meet this important need.  When in Armenia, Paros will arrange a visit and tour of your project.  Donations can be made online via credit card or via check made payable to: The Paros Foundation, 918 Parker Street, A14, Berkeley, CA  94710.

The Paros Foundation expresses its deepest appreciation to the Kablanian, Kulhanjian and Hachigian Families for their generous support of this effort.

Please consider having your family sponsor a project in memory of the 100th anniversary of the Genocide, through the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, by visiting www.paros-foundation.org.  The Paros Foundation underwrites all administrative expenses allowing all sponsor contributions to be spent 100% on the project.  Donations to The Paros Foundation, a 501(c) 3 private foundation, are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.