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The Paros Foundation underwrites all administrative and overhead costs allowing 100% of all donor contributions to go directly towards projects and supported organizations.

Donations to The Paros Foundation Projects for Prosperity are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. To sponsor a project through The Paros Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 organization (Tax ID 20-5094630), or learn more about specific projects in need of funding, please contact us using the information below.

Contacts

2217 5th Street

Berkeley CA 94710

info@parosfoundation.org

(310) 400 9061

Press Releases

Two More Artsakh Refugee Families Receive Newly Renovated Homes

The Paros Foundation proudly announces the official ribbon cutting of two newly renovated homes for refugee families from Artsakh, marking a significant milestone in the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting displaced Armenians and fostering hope for a better future. Notably, these homes are the 41st and 42nd permanent homes provided to Artsakh refugee families by The Paros Foundation. Thanks to the heartfelt sponsorship of Diane Barsam, these homes stand as beacons of resilience and compassion, offering safety, stability, and the promise of new beginnings for the Saghyan and Lalayan Families, who have endured the pain of displacement.

Late last month, The Paros Foundation, alongside community leaders, local officials, and enthusiastic SERVICE Armenia participants, gathered with the Saghyan and Lalayan Families from Artsakh to celebrate the successful completion of this transformative initiative. The event saw children’s laughter mingle with words of gratitude, as neighbors, supporters, and members of SERVICE Armenia joined hands to welcome the families into their new homes.

The two newly renovated homes, in the vibrant community of Meds Masrik, represent more than just physical structures—they are sanctuaries of hope for those who have faced unimaginable loss. Each home has been thoughtfully restored, furnished and equipped, ensuring comfort and dignity for the families who will now call them their own.

The illegal takeover of Artsakh left more than 120,000 people uprooted, forcing them to leave behind their homes, communities, and livelihoods. The Paros Foundation recognized the urgency of this humanitarian crisis and has made it a top priority to provide direct assistance to those inneed. Through collaborative efforts with sponsors and donors, the Foundation has been able to transform the lives of countless families by offering not only shelter, but also the tools needed to rebuild and thrive.

Diane Barsam’s sponsorship exemplifies the crucial role that individual philanthropy can play in creating positive, lasting change. Her commitment has enabled The Paros Foundation to go beyond temporary aid, delivering sustainable support and empowering families to take charge of their futures.

“The resilience and determination of these families inspire us all. It is an honor to be able to contribute to their new beginnings and to work alongside The Paros Foundation in building a brighter future for Artsakh’s refugees.”

-Diane Barsam

The renovation process for each home was a labor of love, involving skilled local artisans and construction teams dedicated to creating safe, comfortable, and welcoming environments.
During the ribbon cutting ceremony, the two recipient families shared heartfelt words of gratitude, reflecting on their journeys of displacement and the new chapters that now await them. Their stories are marked by resilience—a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Barsam’s personal commitment to supporting displaced families stems from a deep empathy for their plight and a desire to foster positive change. By partnering with The Paros Foundation, she has helped create a model for sustainable, impactful giving that addresses both immediate needs and long-term integration.
“I would like to personally thank Diane Barsam for her generous gift that allowed us to purchase and renovate these two homes, and to our other

donors that came together to support our resettlement efforts with funding for furniture and appliances for these families,” said Peter Abajian, Executive Director.
The Paros Foundation has long been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in Armenia, with an established record of delivering high-impact projects in housing, education, health, and economic development. The organization’s approach is rooted in transparency, accountability, and a deep respect for the dignity of every beneficiary.

Paros Blog

CivilNet Interview Creating Vibrant Border Communities for Displaced Artsakh Refugees

Paros Executive Director, Peter Abajian, was a guest on CivilNet News to discuss our work with Artsakh refugees through our Artsakh Refugee Support Fund. Our goal is to house as many families as possible to give them a new start.

Watch the full interview below!

Newsletters

This Month at The Paros Foundation – July 2025

Construction season is in full swing!

With the warm weather, our crews began construction on several new sites this month including the complete renovation of the Shgharshik School Gymnasium Renovation, the Knights of Vartan School 106 in Nork, the kindergarten in Meds Masrik, the science classroom, laboratory and teacher’s lounge at the Nor Ughi School, the expansion of the Berd Sari Gat Dairy production company and the reconstruction of a home for a family in the Tavush Community of Paravakar.

41st & 42nd Refugee Families Receive New Homes

Two more families displaced from Artsakh receive new homes thanks to the generous contribution of Diane Barsam. These families were moved into completely renovated homes in the community of Meds Masrik.

These homes were also furnished and equipped with modern appliances through the many contributors to Paros’ Artsakh Refugee Support Fund.

SERVICE Armenia Participants Contribute To Construction
Construction on the Community Recreation Center for the Elderly in Meds Masrik is underway and benefited from the help of our SERVICE Armenia participants. The group spent the day mixing concrete and helping install the subfloor throughout the complex. It is expected that the facility will be completed by fall. This project is supported by the Goshtigian Family and will serve a valuable need in the community once it is completed.

Nourishing Armenia Teaches Healthy Recipes
Healthy habits start from a young age, and that is exactly what Nourishing Armenia is set out to accomplish!

The children of Debi Arach most recently learned to make tourshi, sarma, and so much more with their spring veggies. The students were so excited to be part of the process, and most importantly enjoying the food they prepared!

Saying Farewell to Another Incredible Summer!

Med Aid Armenia and SERVICE Armenia 2025 completed their missions this month. Med Aid Armenia’s impact on vulnerable communities was substantial and will leave a lasting impact. SERVICE Armenia’s participants worked on several valuable projects throughout Armenia–making their mark and having fun along the way.

Throughout 2025 we are asking our community, what have they done lately to get involved. Our hope is that these interviews show you that every little bit matters, and hopefully inspires you to also get involved.

To kick off this mini-series we are talking to Paros donor and friend, John Mangasarian, who is a dedicated member of his Armenian community here in the United States as well as in Armenia.

Listen now on
Apple | Amazon | Spotify

the number of volunteers working with SERVICE Armenia and Med Aid this month in Armenia