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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

Category: Press Releases

Press Releases
March 9, 2023

Finally, A Gym For Abovyan School #8

Since Soviet time, children at Abovyan’s School #8 did not have a gym for their physical education. The gym at the school had a leaky roof, broken windows and no heat. This made the facility too dangerous for students to use. Physical Education classes were held in regular classrooms and limited to individual sports or simple exercise. On February 20th, the newly renovated gym was officially opened thanks to the efforts of The Paros Foundation and supporter Seda Melkoni.

“Thanks to the leadership of Seda Melkoni, and her circle of supporters, this large gym project which will serve almost 500 students is now a reality. Together with her supporters, we have now completed the renovation of three of the six building’s roofs and now this large L-shaped gymnasium.”
-Peter Abajian, Executive Director

While the work on the medical center was completed in September of 2022—and the staff began work at the new center–the official ribbon cutting was delayed until mid-February because of the September attack on Armenia by Azerbaijan.
Before
After

During the opening celebration, Lusine Baghdasaryan, Principal of the school spoke about the challenges of not having a gym for students to use. She praised the work of The Paros Foundation work crew and staff, contributions from the Kotayk Regional Governor’s office and Abovyan Municipality. Students performed an exhibition of dance, song, gymnastics and martial arts for the guests.

The renovation of the gymnasium included the installation of a new ceiling, new smaller (energy efficient) windows, new electrical system and lighting, new heating system, new doors and the restoration of the flooring. New safety netting was installed throughout to protect the ceiling and windows from breakage. In addition to the renovation work overseen by The Paros Foundation, the Kotayk Regional Government provided funding for the new windows and the Municipality of Abovyan provided new sporting equipment for the school’s use. This work was all made possible through the support of the Berejikian and Melkonian Families with a special thanks to ELSO Foundation and donations in memory of Sogomon Dordulian.
By Narine
Press Releases
February 17, 2023

Akunk Village Now Has A Medical Center For Its Residents

The Gegharkunik Region village of Akunk has a new medical center thanks to the work of The Paros Foundation through the benefactor Mr. Alex Cherchian (SC-USA). Prior to the completion of this new center, the medical staff worked to address the needs of more than 4,500 people in this community from a room in the nearby village school.

“The fact that Akunk did not have a dedicated medical center space with sanitary conditions to adequately service its population was a huge program. I would like to extend our appreciation to Mr. Alex Cherchian and his family for sponsoring this important project.”
-Peter Abajian, Executive Director

Paros Staff, Akunk Medical Center Staff, Tavush Regional Deputy Governor, Akunk Village Representative and Head of the Vardenis Consolidated Community celebrate the opening of the Akunk Medical Center.

While the work on the medical center was completed in September of 2022—and the staff began work at the new center–the official ribbon cutting was delayed until mid-February because of the September attack on Armenia by Azerbaijan.

In 2020, the Regional Government of Gegharkunik partially renovated the facility, but never completed the work. The Paros Foundation installed the center’s heating system, completed the plaster and painting, installed flooring throughout and completed the plumbing systems and bathroom. Now the center is fully equipped with a laboratory, restroom, patient exam rooms and administrative offices.

By Narine
Press Releases
February 10, 2023

Nerkin Tsaghkavan Gets A Kindergarten After 32 Years

Families in the Tavush border village of Nerkin Tsaghkavan did not have a functioning kindergarten since Armenia’s Independence in 1991. Thanks to the efforts of The Paros Foundation and the sponsorship of many generous donors including the Dadourian Foundation (NY-USA) and contributions in memory of Sona Apelian (CA-USA) this community and its children will now enjoy the benefits of early education. Joining Paros staff for the ribbon cutting were Tavush Regional Governor Mr. Hayk Ghalumyan, Head of the Ijevan Consolidated Community Mr. Artur Chagharyan, other regional and municipal officials, kindergarten staff, parents and children, along with staff from Focus on Children Now, who provided furniture for the kindergarten.

“Today is an amazing day for the more than 500 residents of Nerkin Tsaghkavan. Not only will children and their families benefit from the existence of a functioning kindergarten in the village, but new employment opportunities now exist for people in this community.”
-Peter Abajian, Executive Director

Head of the Ijevan Consolidated Community Mr. Artur Chagharyan and Paros Executive Director Peter Abajian cut the ribbon on the new kindergarten in the village of Nerkin Tsaghkavan.
The community of Nerkin Tsaghkavan provided an abandoned building that would be suitable to house a kindergarten for up to 30 children. The Paros Foundation’s team both expanded and reconfigured the space to facilitate its operation as a kindergarten. Aside from expanding the facility, work on the building included installing a new roof, new windows, plumbing, electrical, plaster, paint and flooring. To help make the heating system particularly efficient, an under floor hot water heating system was utilized.
By Narine
Press Releases
January 10, 2023

Verishen Villagers Welcome Newly Expanded & Renovated Kindergarten

The Syunik border village of Verishen has a newly expanded and completely renovated kindergarten thanks to the work of The Paros Foundation through the support of The Cherchian Family Foundation (Wisconsin, USA). Celebrating the gala reopening of the kindergarten on December 25 were the Syunik Regional Governor, Mr. Robert Ghukasyan, the Mayor of Goris Mr. Arush Arushanyan, other regional and municipal officials, kindergarten staff, parents and children. The Paros Foundation staff were also on-hand for the ribbon cutting and festivities, along with staff from Focus on Children Now, who provided new furniture for the expanded kindergarten.

“I am very proud of the fact that we were able to meet the needs of the young families in this growing community by both expanding the kindergarten building, which will allow them to launch two new groups and renovate the balance of the structure to ensure these children will begin their education in a clean, safe and comfortable environment. I would like to extend our appreciation to Mr. Ara Cherchian and his family for sponsoring this important project.”
-Peter Abajian, Executive Director
During the September 2022 attacks on Armenia by Azerbaijan, the village of Verishen, which is adjacent to Goris, had four homes in the village of 2,200 people hit by mortar attacks, including one home almost adjacent to the kindergarten. Even though Verishen shares a border with Azerbaijan, this community is steadfast in its commitment to living in this village and has outgrown its kindergarten with 90 children. Now, following its expansion and renovation, more than 150 children from Verishen and other neighboring communities will be able to attend.
The gala ribbon cutting was celebrated throughout the Verishen community.
Work began in the fall of 2021 with the expansion of the kindergarten by almost an additional 1,700 square feet. This allowed the kindergarten to launch two additional classrooms for an additional 60 children. The existing structure was then completely renovated including classrooms, bathrooms, hallways, stairwell, kitchen, and offices. The Municipality of Goris also participated in this project addressing the building’s façade, which is now painted in colorful, happy colors for the children.
By Narine
Press Releases
September 28, 2022

Detroit Community Kicks Off Nationwide Fundraising Effort for Paros Housing, After-School & Vocational Center Building

On September 15, 2022, an enthusiastic crowd gathered at the beautiful Birmingham Athletic Club to learn more about and to support The Paros Foundation’s Housing, After-school and vocational center building in Gyumri, Armenia. The event was generously hosted by Dr. & Mrs. Gary and Linda Assarian and Mr. & Mrs. Howard and Catherine Atesian.

Event Co-Hosts, the Atesian and Assarian families, gather for a photo with The Paros Foundation’s Executive Director. Pictured left to right: Mrs. Catherine Atesian, Mr. Howard Atesian, Mrs. Linda Assarian, Dr. Gary Assarian and Mr. Peter Abajian.

“I am very pleased that our community joined us to enthusiastically support this exciting project. Once completed, this project will continue to help impoverished families in Gyumri break their cycle of poverty and become contributing members of society.”

-Dr. Gary Assarian

The Municipality of Gyumri voted to give The Paros Foundation an 18,000 square foot, three-story building that was built in the late 1980s, and was never completed. Eliminating these types of eyesores from the city is a priority of the Mayor, Vardges Samsonian, who proposed this large project to The Paros Foundation. Once completed, the building’s second and third floor will be occupied by 18 families currently living in one of Gyumri’s domik communities in one- and two-bedroom apartments. The first floor will be home to a second branch of the Debi Arach Children’s Center, a vocational training space and space for a social enterprise/training center. Construction on this building will begin in the coming weeks.

More than $75,000 was raised at this kickoff event in Detroit. Similar events will take place in communities around the country in the coming months. A special thanks to the following families for their major support: Dr. & Mrs. Gary & Linda Assarian, Mr. & Mrs. Howard & Catherine Atesian, Mr. & Mrs. Ara & Christine Atesian, Mr. Darren Atesian, Mr. & Mrs. Gregory & Sandra Jamian, Mr. & Mrs. Edward & Yvonne Korkoian, Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Marilyn Sarkesian, Mr. & Mrs. Dietrich and Marianna Sneideraitis and the Terchoonian Home Foundation.

“I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Assarian and Atesian Families who sponsored this successful kickoff event. Our goal is to raise the entire $500,000 necessary to complete work on this building in the next few months in order to complete construction and move in the new families prior to the onset of next winter.”


-Peter Abajian, Executive Director

Learn More & Donate
By Narine
Press Releases
August 19, 2022

Aygedzor Village Children Have a New Kindergarten!

Paros Teams up With Yerevan Municipality to Complete Renovations

On July 17, representatives of the Yerevan Municipality, Focus on Children Now, the Berd Consolidated Community and the Aygedzor Village joined the teachers, parents, children, and staff of the Aygedzor Kindergarten for a ribbon cutting celebration marking the re-opening of the newly reconstructed and expanded Aygedzor Kindergarten.

Prior to its renovation, the kindergarten was in very poor condition. Insufficient heating, poor sanitary conditions and mold contributed to very low attendance. Now, following its complete renovation, a second group of kindergarten children will be added allowing almost 50 village children and their families to gain the benefits of full-day early education.

“The reconstruction of this kindergarten today marks the 11th kindergarten Paros has either renovated or built along border communities in Armenia’s Tavush Region, and the 12th is currently under construction in Nerkin Tsakhavan. Investing in these communities is critical to help create a more vibrant and prosperous community for its residents.” – Peter Abajian, Executive Director 

The Paros Foundation was able to implement this important project thanks to the generous financial support from the John Mirak Foundation, Edward and Pamela Avedisian and an anonymous donor from Los Angeles. In addition to the Yerevan Municipality’s financial support, Focus on Children Now provided all the furniture and bedding
for the children at the kindergarten.

By Narine
Press Releases
June 15, 2022

SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals is Back for a 2nd Year!

Paros’s Official Service Trip for Young Adults

Back for a second year, SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals is a trip designed for participants ages 24-40, taking place this October 14th-30th! This trip was created for young professionals who want to tour Armenia while participating in service work with other young adults. We can work with participants to engage in Armenia within their professional areas as well. For example, a teacher can spend a day at an Armenian school volunteering. This trip is a great opportunity to network within the Armenian professional community, and brings Armenians together for an unforgettable experience!

SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals Application

“While I’ve been lucky to have been to Armenia plenty of times before, there is a newfound appreciation when you visit as a working, young professional. As someone forging their own career and professional path, the inspiration you gain from visiting as a young adult is unlike any other,” said Aram Nahabedian, a, 2021 participant.

We are proud to announce that the Rosine Kizirian Scholarship is available again by the Kizirian Family for the 2022 SERVICE Armenia trip this Fall. The Rosine Kizirian Scholarship honors the love that Rosine had for her Armenian culture. Raising her children and grandchildren in America, Rosine was dedicated to imparting her wisdom of the Armenian language, faith, and culture onto her family. Her commitment to preserving the Armenian culture helped shine a guiding light on so many young Armenians. This scholarship will be awarded to someone who exemplifies a similar love and curiosity for their Armenian identity. One recipient will receive a $350 scholarship towards their SERVICE Armenia trip fee.

Scholarship Qualifications:
Must be applying to participate in summer SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals 2022 program with The Paros Foundation.

Essay Prompt:
In 300 words or less, either tell your story of Armenian identity and what it means to you or why a trip to Armenia is important to you. Please submit your prompt to Sofia, Sofia@cobaltsapphire.com by September 15th. The winner of the scholarship will be announced shortly after.

“Service Armenia provided me with the best first experience in Armenia. This group of young professionals went as strangers and returned as family. I was thoroughly impressed with all the accommodations, excursions, and experiences. I can firmly say I will be going back.” Eric Nikssarian, 2021 participant

Participant fees are $2,300 per person for single occupancy or $1,850 per person for double occupancy (including a $350 charitable contribution towards defraying service project costs), not including airfare. To apply, visit www.parosfoundation.org and the SERVICE Armenia section. Deadline to apply is July 15,2022. If you have any questions about our SERVICE Armenia Young Professionals 2022 program please call Peter Abajian, Executive Director at (310) 400-9061 or contact him via email pabajian@gmail.com.

By Narine
Press Releases
May 12, 2022

The Paros Foundation is Launching the Reconstruction of Nine Homes in Artsakh to Help Address the Housing Crisis

Paros team meets with Artsakh President to discuss housing needs.

Homes are being built in three areas, in the city of Mardakert, the village of Maghavus and Artsakh’s capital, Stepanakert. Once rebuilt, each of these homes will be given to a family selected by The Paros Foundation from the many families displaced by the war and the subsequent loss of territory.  

“Following the war and subsequent repatriation of displaced families from Artsakh, who had taken refuge in Armenia during the war, it became evident that Artsakh has a tremendous housing shortage for their population. It is critical that we help these families get into permanent homes as soon as possible to give them some stability,” said Peter Abajian, Executive Director.

These homes are being reconstructed through the initiative and generous support of the Dombalagian Family, who are very passionate about the need to help Artsakh and Artsakh families.

“My father always felt that it was very important for us to help the people of Artsakh maintain their roots in these historic lands. “In his memory, I am pleased that my family is leading this effort through The Paros Foundation in Artsakh, and I would encourage others to join,” said Hasmik Dombalagian

Following the 2020 war in Artsakh, The Paros Foundation launched a resettlement program as part of the Armenian Resettlement Coalition. Through this coalition, 17 families will have been resettled into new homes by the end of this year in Armenia. In addition to these 17 homes, Paros directly has resettled two more families into Armenia bringing the total to 19. Now with construction moving forward in Artsakh on nine homes, this brings the total to 28 homes in Armenia and Artsakh that The Paros Foundation and its family of donors are or have built through its Emergency and Relief Reconstruction Fund-Artsakh.

“There are still hundreds of families in both Armenia and Artsakh that were displaced by the war and need permanent housing. We will continue to build and reconstruct homes as funding from our generous donors provides,” said Abajian.

Donate To Help Artsakh Families
By Narine
Press Releases
April 26, 2022

Asdourian Family Helps Two Kindergartens in Shirak Region Becomes a Reality

ASDOURIAN FAMILY LENDS THEIR SUPPORT TO HELP REALIZE THE
DREAM OF KINDERGARTENS IN JAJUR AND KETI COMMUNITIES

The communities of Jajur and Keti in Armenia’s Shirak Region now both have newly established and operating kindergartens thanks in part to the generous support of longtime Paros friends and supporters, Mark and Charlene Asdourian. More than 70 children and their families will receive the benefits of early education thanks to this important project.

In early 2021, the Armenian government working with the consolidated Community of Akhurian in Armenia’s Shirak Region, launched the complete renovation of buildings to house a kindergarten in each of these two communities. Short on funds, they approached The Paros Foundation and Focus on Children Now for support to complete these two kindergartens. The Paros Foundation completed the kitchen renovation and outfitting necessary appliances, furniture and kitchen cooking supplies. Focus on Children Now furnished the kindergarten with the necessary furniture and bedding. Mr. & Mrs. Mark and Charlene Asdourian agreed to generously underwrite the budgets for both kitchens through The Paros Foundation.

“In the next month or so the kindergarten in the neighboring community of Marmarashen will also be ready to open and launch operations. The benefits of early education for these children and their families, and the economic impact of the new jobs created at these three kindergartens is huge. I am pleased that we were able to partner and help resolve issues at these three community’s kindergartens.”
-Peter Abajian, Executive Director

Ms. Jeanette Boras, another friend and supporter of The Paros Foundation, is sponsoring the kitchen completion for the kindergarten in Marmarashen. Once opened, this kindergarten will serve at least 25 children and create at least four more full-time employment positions.

The Paros Foundation has a long history of supporting rural communities and their kindergartens. To date, the Foundation has supported with either partial or full renovations, more than 20 kindergartens throughout Armenia. Currently, the community of Nerkin Tsaghkavan is next in line for the creation of a new kindergarten. For more information or to help sponsor this project please visit our website. As with all our projects, 100% of donor contributions will be applied directly to this project with no hold back for administrative expenses.

By Narine
Press Releases
January 5, 2022

Newest Component of the Assarian Vocational Training Program Launched in Gyumri

Dr. & Mrs. Gary & Linda Assarian have a mission to empower people and get them to work. With their support, the Hianali Beauty Center was launched last month both as a high-end, high-quality beauty center and as a training program free-of-charge, for people wishing to work in the beauty services sector in Gyumri.

By Narine