Narine – The Paros Foundation

November 2, 2025

This Month at The Paros Foundation – October 2025

The Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center
building in Gyumri now has seismic reinforcements!

Our team visited Gyumri to meet with our contractor and witness the construction work moving forward in full force. We are proud to be working on this project that will house 27 “domik” families in new homes, help more than 175 new children through a second Debi Arach children’s center location and provide life changing mentoring and vocational training through the Assarian Vocational Training Program.

Construction is estimated to be complete by the end of 2026, and it’s due to all of the dedicated people who have donated and are working to get this monumental project completed. With the construction fully funded, we are looking for funds to help furnish the interior spaces.

Meds Masrik Kindergarten Expansion

Thanks to the generous support of the Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul, construction is underway on the expansion that will house two new groups of kindergarten children, and the work is progressing well. However, additional funding is needed to renovate the existing building, including essential updates to the kitchen, so that every child can learn and grow in a safe, nurturing environment. Contribute to the expansion here.

Nourishing Armenia Greenhouse Opening

Now a year-round program, founder, Stephanie, joined the Debi Arach team and visitors, Paros friend and supporter Adrienne Krikorian and her Mer Hooys group, to celebrate the completion of construction and launch of the greenhouse program at Debi Arach. The greenhouse was memorialized in the name of Maritza Sudjian, Stephanie’s great grandmother. Children will now be working in this living classroom, learning how to grow their own healthy food.

SERVICE Armenia 2026 Young Professionals Application Available!

SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals is back, but this time in August! Join other 23-45 year olds for 10 unforgettable days of giving back, connecting, and discovering the beauty of Armenia, while making an impact that lasts a lifetime from August 8th-20th.
Learn more and apply here!

Space is still available to join us this weekend in Paso Robles to enjoy gourmet dining, exquisite wine & a spectacular environment to benefit Med-Aid Armenia! Join us November 7-9th to raise a glass and raise money for a good cause.

Yeraz Blend LA Young Professionals

Thank you to everyone who signed up to join Yeraz Blend on November 6th, the event is now sold out! We look forward to meting everyone this week and sharing more about the work Paros does. Follow Yeraz Blend and stay up-to-date on future events.

Summer 2026 will be full of fun trips for all age ranges and interests! Our SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals application is now live. Stay tuned over the next few weeks for the remaining applications to go live!

Next on our mini series, “What Have You Done”, we speak with Nick Cabraloff, one of the founders of Yeraz Blend, a new social group that is becoming a bridge: linking young Armenians to one another, to their heritage, and to opportunities for creating meaningful change.

Listen now on
Spotify | Apple | Amazon

number of Paros trips to Armenia happening summer 2026

By Narine

Paros Blog

October 14, 2025

LA Young Professionals – Join Yeraz Blend on November 6th!

Less than one month until Yeraz Blend x Paros Foundation fundraiser event!

Join us Thursday, November 6 for an evening filled with specialty tastings, gourmet experiences and surprise musical performances. Proceeds will go towards our Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center in Gyumri. This center takes a holistic approach to helping impoverished children excel in school and develop career goals to work themselves out of poverty.

Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot now!

Meet Yeraz Blend

Yeraz Blend started with one mission: bring young Armenians together and give back to Armenia. From one small gathering to four sold-out events, we’ve built a growing community that has raised $120K+ and supported three nonprofits — with 100% of proceeds going directly to Armenia. 🇦🇲

Hear From The Co-Founder

Check out our latest episode of Pari Louys with Paros featuring Yeraz Blend Co-Founder, Nick Cabraloff, about the inspiration for this initiative to start a social group for young Armenians that also gives back.

This episode is part of our “What Have You Done?” series featuring Armenians throughout the diaspora who are making a positive difference.

Listen on Apple | Spotify | Amazon

By Narine

Paros Blog

October 11, 2025

Building Hope in Gyumri

Seismic reinforcement of the Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational
Center building in Gyumri is progressing rapidly!

Our dedicated team recently traveled to Gyumri to meet with our contractor and to see firsthand the impressive progress being made on site. The construction work is advancing in full force, and every visit reinforces our excitement and pride in what this project represents, hope, safety, and opportunity for families who have endured decades of hardship.

Once completed, this transformative facility will become home to 27 domik families, finally moving them out of the unsafe temporary shelters they’ve lived in since the 1988 earthquake. Beyond providing secure housing, the building will also open its doors to more than 175 children through the second location of the Debi Arach Children’s Center, expanding access to after-school education, nutritious meals, and emotional support. Additionally, the Assarian Vocational Training Program will empower youth and adults alike with valuable skills, mentoring, and pathways toward meaningful employment — changing lives for generations to come.

Construction is currently on track for completion by the end of 2026, marking a major milestone in our mission to rebuild lives and strengthen communities in Gyumri. With the structural work now fully funded, our next goal is to raise funds to furnish and equip the interior spaces, transforming this building from concrete and steel into a true home and hub for learning, growth, and community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every donor, partner, and supporter who has contributed to making this dream a reality. Together, we are not just building a structure, we are building hope, dignity, and a brighter future for hundreds of Armenian families.

By Narine

Paros Blog

October 7, 2025

You’re Invited🍷 Wine Weekend Benefiting Med-Aid

Drink wine and support Med-Aid Armenia this November! Save the date for the weekend of November 7-9 for an unforgettable weekend enjoying wine, food, and great company, all in support of a great cause!

Terrace EXPERIENCE Dinner At Sensorio

Exclusive access to the Private Terrace with guaranteed seating, private restrooms, Open Bar (Beer & Wine), fireside tables, heaters, and the best views of the Field of Light exhibit at Sensorio.

When the sun goes down in the hills of Paso Robles, the lights come up at Sensorio, one of California’s largest immersive art exhibitions.

SIXMILEBRIDGE Wine Tasting

Surrounded by wild beauty and vineyard stillness, Sixmilebridge tasting experience offers a pause from the busy and expected. Enjoy tastings led by expert educators, a grazing table and beautiful views.

Daou Vineyards Tasting & Gourmet Lunch

Discover the hidden gem of California Wine Country. Experience breathtaking views, unparalleled hospitality, delectable tastings, and incredible wines.

Evening Dessert Reception

Come together for an indulgent finale featuring decadent desserts paired with smooth, rich Armenian Cognac. This is the perfect chance to relax, mingle, and savor every sweet moment. Cigars available!

More Information

Donation to attend – $1,500 per person

You are welcome to book any accommodations you prefer.

If interested, group rates of $415 are available at the Allegretto Vineyard Resort for the Premium Prelude Rooms. To secure this special rate call (805) 369-2500 and let them know you are with The Paros Foundation.

Past Med-Aid Events

Learn more about the medical landscape in Armenia and the impactMed-Aid has made in Armenia on our podcast episodes with Dr. Krikor Deramerian!
Episode 1
Episode 2

Questions?

Peter Abajian | 310.400.9061 | peter@parosfoundation.org
Dr. Krikor Deramerian | 818.416.7457 | medaidarmenia@gmail.com

By Narine

Newsletters

October 1, 2025

This Month at The Paros Foundation – September 2025

You’re Invited!

You are invited to Paso Robles to enjoy gourmet dining, exquisite wine & a spectacular environment to benefit Med-Aid Armenia! Join us November 7-9th to raise a glass and raise money for a good cause.

Space is limited so reserve your spot now!

Exclusive access to the Private Terrace with guaranteed seating, private restrooms, Open Bar (Beer & Wine), fireside tables, heaters, and the best views of the Field of Light exhibit at Sensorio.

Discover the hidden gem of California Wine Country. Experience breathtaking views, unparalleled hospitality, delectable tastings, and incredible wines.

and more!

Meds Masrik Kindergarten Expansion

Currently there are 75 children that attend the kindergarten, while 40 young children, in the village of Meds Masrik, are waiting for that chance. With only three of five buildings currently usable, and outdated facilities limiting what the kindergarten can offer, too many children are left behind. Reconstruction of two buildings has already begun thanks to the generous support of the Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul in Detroit. Contribute to the expansion here.

Aparan School Auditorium

Over the years, the school has proudly produced athletes who have competed in the Olympics and earned championship titles across Europe and around the world. Beyond sports, students have access to a variety of clubs and extracurricular programs, including a renowned dance ensemble that represents the school’s commitment to art and culture. To continue offering these opportunities and to strengthen its cultural programs, the school now requires a full renovation of its auditorium. Learn more and donate here.

Creating Vibrant Border Communities
for Displaced Artsakh Refugees

Continuity of care is a core pillar of our Med-Aid Armenia program, and we are proud to have Dr. Koko Deramerian as the leader of this initiative. Learn more about Med-Aid and everything Dr. Deramerian and his volunteers are doing to transform the medical landscape in Armenia in the full interview here.

Yeraz Blend LA Young Professionals

We’ve partnered with Los Angeles based young professionals group, Yeraz Blend for an event benefiting The Paros Foundation — and you’re invited! Join us Thursday, November 6 for an evening filled with specialty tastings, gourmet experiences and surprise musical performances. Proceeds will go towards our Gyumri housing, children’s center, and vocational training building. Register here.

Next up on our mini-series discussing involvement throughout the diaspora, Sunday School Superintendent, Gail Chelebian! She shares how the unique model her church adopted blends together all facets of being Armenian. Learn more about her dedication and how it has impacted many in our latest episode!
Listen now on
Apple | Amazon

number of additional students who will be able to now attend school once the Meds Masrik renovations are complete

By Narine

Paros Blog

September 18, 2025

LA Young Professionals- You’re Invited!

📣 Attention Los Angeles based young professionals 📣

You’re invited to an exclusive event benefiting The Paros Foundation!

Exciting news! We’ve partnered with Los Angeles based young professionals group, Yeraz Blend for an event benefiting The Paros Foundation — and you’re invited! Join us Thursday, November 6 for an evening filled with specialty tastings, gourmet experiences and surprise musical performances. Proceeds will go towards our Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center in Gyumri. This center takes a holistic approach to helping impoverished children excel in school and develop career goals to work themselves out of poverty.

Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot now!

EVENT DETAILS
Date: Thursday, November 6
Time: 7 – 10pm
Location: Address provided after ticket purchase
Tickets: $150 minimum suggested donation per ticket to attend

By Narine

Newsletters

September 3, 2025

This Month at The Paros Foundation – August 2025

It’s Harvesting Season!

The students of Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur are learning how to harvest in their living classroom, the orchard beside their school. This time they are making dried fruit and preserves from their harvest. Not only does this orchard provide valuable hands-on lessons for the children, it also provides nourishment. All of the food harvested will be used by the school for the children’s meals. We are proud that the orchard is fulfilling its mission of giving back to the community in more ways than one!

Nourishing Armenia Teaches Healthy Recipes
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! The summer program did come to an end, but the kids can’t wait to start their hands-on experience again soon!

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 here.

CivilNet – Visiting Goris
Seeing Armenia through different lenses is always a growing experience. That is why when Minahil Arif joined our trip to Goris for her first article as a journalist at CivilNet, we were honored to show her what life was really like for the border communities we had been tirelessly working to help. Thank you Minahil for providing insight on the families who fled Artsakh, those who lost someone dear to them, and for those who lost their communities. Read the full article here.

Med-Aid Wine Tasting Weekend
Drink wine and support Med-Aid Armenia this November 7-9! Join us in Paso Robles for an unforgettable weekend enjoying wine, food, and great company, all in support of a great cause! Space is limited so reserve your spot now.

Schedule and tickets here.

Have you given our podcast a listen? Pari Louys with Paros is your connection to the motherland, where we will learn, grow, and better Armenia, together!
Listen now on
Spotify | Apple | Amazon

the number of Paros podcast
episodes that you can enjoy

By Narine

Press Releases

August 29, 2025

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.

By Narine

Paros Blog

August 22, 2025

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!

By Narine

Newsletters

August 7, 2025

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

By Narine

Contacts

This Month at The Paros Foundation – October 2025

The Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center
building in Gyumri now has seismic reinforcements!