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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

Paros Blog

SERVICE Armenia 2026 Application Now Live!

SERVICE Armenia helps develop the relationship between program participants and Armenia. These three week-long service trips are planned to include service projects, educational excursions and outings, and time for leisure and fun activities.

Participants implement several projects, including helping renovate village school classrooms and distributing humanitarian and educational supplies in rural communities.

Visit historic and religious sites such as Lake Sevan, the Mother See of the Armenian Church at Etchmiadzin, Garni, Geghard, Khor Virab, Noravank, and more! Additionally, an overnight trip will be organized to Armenia’s second largest city, Gyumri.

The group will live, work, tour, and play together, creating a lasting bonding experience. Participants will be able to enjoy several meals at many excellent Yerevan restaurants during planned group dinners, and/or prepare meals for themselves during the trip.

Participant Requirements Have Been Updated!

In addition, each participant is required to fundraise a minimum of $3,000 in donations prior to the start of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip. Participants may choose one of the following initiatives to support through their fundraising efforts:

  • Debi Arach Children’s Center Food Program
  • Humanitarian Aid for the Debi Arach Children’s Center (including backpacks, school supplies, winter coats and boots, shoes, and groceries for families in need)
  • Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center Project
  • Paros Chamber Choir
  • The Paros Foundation’s Operational Support

Participants are also asked to download, complete, and return the Fundraising Plan Form to The Paros Foundation, outlining their intended fundraising activities and goals.

Paros Blog

Help Establish Preventative Care as a Norm in Armenia!

This trip will provide essential healthcare delivery in Armenia, develop related programs & support individuals pursuing careers in the healthcare field.

We welcome medical professionals, residents, medical students, high school seniors and university aged pre-med students. An interview is required to approve participation.

Med-Aid participants will earn volunteer hours. The primary care team will conduct wellness screenings for several hundred families throughout Armenia who do not have regular access to healthcare.

To balance the labor of love, there will also be adventure, cultural immersion through visits & tours to several of Armenia’s historic sites, and rest. The trip will begin and end in Armenia’s vibrant capital, Yerevan.

Newsletters

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

Paros Blog

Young Professionals – Join Our 2026 Trip to Armenia!

SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals is back!

This trip is your chance to experience Armenia like never before. A 10-day adventure specifically designed for ages 23–45 who want to meet incredible people, give back, and create lifelong memories. Together, you’ll take part in meaningful service projects, explore Armenia through unique excursions and cultural experiences, and enjoy plenty of time for fun, relaxation, and bonding. Guided by the dedicated Paros team—whose deep experience in Armenia ensures every moment is meaningful—you’ll return home inspired, connected, and proud to have made a difference for Armenia’s future.

• Visit and tour Armenia, while gaining valuable life experiences
• Tour historical, religious and cultural sites throughout Armenia
• Meet other 23- 45-year-olds from throughout the United States
• Travel and adventure together
• Serve Armenia with both Diasporan and local volunteers
• You do not need to be Armenian to participate. Everyone is welcome!
• Professional and experienced, English speaking staff and guides
• Create a lifetime of great memories and friends!

Paros Blog

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

Paros Blog

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.

Paros Blog

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

Newsletters

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.

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.

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

Paros Blog

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

Newsletters

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