TARZANA, CA—The Tognozzi Family of Tarzana, California has recently established the Marc Tognozzi Memorial Fund through The Paros Foundation to memorialize the untimely passing of their son Marc to benefit charitable projects in Armenia.

“With the creation of the Fund in Marc’s memory, I am hoping to be able to fund projects through The Paros Foundation that fall within my son’s passion for children, education and his love of Armenia.” Said Marc’s mother, Esther (Chelebian) Tognozzi.

The Fund has already allocated support to several of The Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 projects for prosperity to recognize the upcoming centennial of the Armenian Genocide.  Through the Adopt-a-Classroom project, a classroom in the village of Hatsik in Armenia’s Armavir Region was completely remodeled including new doors and windows, window blinds, electrical upgrades, flooring, paint, chalkboards and desks for the children in memory of Marc.  In addition, via the Keep Warm initiative, more than 50 families living in extreme poverty in Armenia’s Shirak Region will receive a one-month allocation of firewood for heating and cooking.  Finally through the Share-a-Pair Winter Boots project, more than 400 needy children will receive warm winter boots this year.

Marc Antony Tognozzi was born and baptized to Jan and Esther (Chelebian) Tognozzi on April 27, 1985 in Tarzana, California.

Marc enthusiastically celebrated his Italian and Armenian ancestry with all the culture, traditions and cuisine of each. He enjoyed school, travel especially to Armenia and Kessab, outdoor adventure, camping, fishing, and working in the family business. At age 15 he completed the U.S Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program including a full coronation ceremony at the Coronado Naval Base in San Diego. Marc then joined the California Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol program and served dutifully at Southern California air show events as a uniformed cadet. By age 17 he also completed and earned many Boy Scout merits and badges as a member of the local Armenian chapter throughout his youth.
Marc Antony Tognozzi passed away abruptly at 28 years of age. Marc is survived by his mother and father, sisters Nyree and Danielle, and his beautiful fiancée Alina. Marc was the oldest of 12 grandchildren and the second oldest of his 11 first cousins. He remained closely bonded to his grandparents his four aunts and three uncles in his own perceptive way.

Donations to the Marc Tognozzi Memorial Fund are accepted online at parosfoundation.org/marc-tognozzi-fund. Or via mail to:  The Paros Foundation, 918 Parker Street, Suite A14, Berkeley, CA  94710.  The Paros Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.  All contributions to The Paros Foundation are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Nerkin Karmir Aghpyur, Armenia—The Medical Center in the village of Nerkin Karmir Aghpyur, Tavush Region, was successfully renovated through The Paros Foundation.  This project, one of the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, was implemented through the generous sponsorship of Jean-Marie & Lori Atamian from New York.  The Paros Foundation underwrote all administrative expenses allowing their contribution to be spent 100% on the project.
The Medical Center, which is located within sniper range of the Azeri border, had a leaky roof, poor windows and doors and no heating system.  The Center also was short on needed medical and laboratory equipment.   While the Center functioned despite these shortcomings, it was difficult for them to meet their critical mission.

“This Medical Center provides daily medical care, vaccinations and evaluations for the 3,200 residents of this and the two neighboring villages.”  Said Peter Abajian, Executive Director of the Paros Foundation, “Both the proximity to the border and the fact that this region is so isolated, makes this Medical Center’s success that much more important.”

The Center’s building, which was hit by enemy fire as recent as four months ago, was fitted with a new roof, new windows and doors and a new heating system.  Interior cosmetic improvements completed the renovation.  Needed equipment was also provided to the Center.  When possible, both local materials and labor were used to help stimulate the villages’ economy.

“We are quite pleased with the outcome of this project.  We are able to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people, and we were able to do it together as a family.”  Said Jean-Marie Atamian during the Atamian family’s visit on opening day.  “On behalf of our family, I would like to recognize The Paros Foundation and their team for the terrific work they did to complete this project.  I look forward to continuing our relationship into the future.”

A commemorative plaque now installed at the medical center reads:

In Memory of Bedros and Vartanoush Atamian from Adiaman, Tigranakert Province.
Bedros fought to defend our villagers and save our refugees so that Armenians could live freely on their lands. His heroism inspires all of us.

The Paros Foundation expresses its deepest appreciation to the Atamian family for their generous support of this project.  A video about this project can be viewed at here.

 

Honor Your Family by Sponsoring a Project Today!

Please consider sponsoring a project in memory of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, through the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, by visiting www.parosfoundation.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 non-profit organization, are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.  When in Armenia, The Paros Foundation’s staff will arrange a visit to and tour of your project.

Donations can be made online at www.parosfoundation.org via credit card or check made payable to: The Paros Foundation, and mailed to:  918 Parker Street, Suite A14, Berkeley, CA  94710.

Berkeley, CA—Since its official launch in October 2011, the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity has had a significant and meaningful positive impact on Armenia and her people.  This initiative, designed to provide the Armenian community with opportunities to recognize the upcoming centennial of the Armenian Genocide through implementing 100 special projects in Armenia, is on schedule to meet its goal of having these projects completed by the end of 2015.

100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity-Numbers of Significance:

• $0 from donor contributions has been spent on administrative expenses.
• 2 years remain to April 24, 2015.
• 18 months have passed since the Paros 100 for 100 initiative launch.
• 27 projects have been completed or are in progress.
• 71 people have been employed or temporarily received a salary as a result of Paros 100 for 100 Projects.
• 73 projects remain to be implemented to reach the goal.
• 150 cities, villages and towns have benefited from a project.
• 210 donors have contributed to a Paros 100 for 100 Project.
• 83,696 people have benefited from a Paros 100 for 100 Project.
• $116,932 in cash contributions has been received and spent on Paros 100 for 100 Projects so far.
• $750,270 is the value of in-kind contributions received including new shoes, dental supplies, computers and musical instruments.

“The numbers speak for themselves,” said Peter Abajian, Executive Director of The Paros Foundation.  “We are eagerly working to identify new projects, advertise them on our website, and secure new potential project sponsors in order to effectively and efficiently implement these sponsored projects in Armenia.  During the first 18 months of this campaign, we significantly improved the lives of our brothers and sisters in Armenia with support of our generous donors.  As each one of these projects is sponsored and implemented, the memory of our ancestors is honored in a way that we believe is positive and appropriate.”

The Paros 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity develops and administers projects throughout Armenia and Artsakh in four program categories:  Development, Education, Humanitarian and Cultural.  Please consider becoming a family sponsor of a project in memory of the Armenian Genocide by participating in the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity.  Visit www.parosfoundation.org.  The Paros Foundation underwrites all administrative expenses allowing all sponsor contributions to be allocated 100% to the project.  Donations to The Paros Foundation, a 501(c) 3 private foundation, are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Formally launched in 2006, The Paros Foundation supports six exemplary local NGOs in Armenia with contributions of quality rent-free program space, operating funds and human resource support.  To honor the upcoming centennial of the Armenian Genocide, The Paros Foundation launched the Paros 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity in October of 2011.  With an aggressive goal of identifying, vetting, fundraising for and ultimately implementing 100 special projects, The Paros Foundation and its staff in Armenia and the United States are quickly earning a reputation as the “go to” organization to oversee small and medium-sized project implementation in Armenia.  For more information and to get involved visit www.parosfoundation.orgor call (310) 400-9061.

Kanakeravan, Armenia–The Paros Foundation successfully completed its Kanakeravan Art School Bathroom Project in the village of Kanakeravan, Kotayk province, one of its 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, through the generous sponsorship of Adam & Rita Kablanian (CA) and Shahen & Arax Hairapetian (CA). The Paros Foundation underwrote all administrative expenses allowing the sponsor contributions to be spent 100% on the project.

“The Art School provides afterschool classes in the fine arts, dance, and music (both classical and folk),” said Peter Abajian, Executive Director of The Paros Foundation. “Having a dignified bathroom at the school is important for both the students and staff.”

The School, which was built in 1992, provides classes to 123 students from both the village of Kanakeravan and a neighboring village. The residents of Kanakeravan have a deep appreciation for the arts and truly appreciate their facility.

The Paros Foundation remains committed to helping Armenia’s children learn in a dignified environment. Many restrooms throughout Armenia’s schools remain in deplorable conditions and with your help, we can fix this one bathroom at a time. Please make a generous contribution today in your family’s name and lets work together to solve 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 and Hairapetian Families for their generous support of this effort.

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

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.

Gyumri, Armenia–The Paros Foundation successfully completed its Gyumri Winter Operation project, one of its 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, through the generous sponsorship of the New York-based Dadourian Foundation.

“As with all Paros 100 for 100 projects, The Paros Foundation underwrote all administrative expenses allowing The Dadourian Foundation’s contribution to be allocated 100% to the project,” reported Peter Abajian, Executive Director of The Paros Foundation. “This unique commitment to our donors provides them with the assurance that their entire contribution goes directly to the project.”

Winter in Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city, is extreme. For the unfortunate families living in the inadequate housing called “Domiks,” the severe cold leads to desperate living conditions. For these people, heating and cooking fuel is typically scavenged from the trash and consists of various toxic materials including plastic bottles, old shoes and cardboard. Children face the difficult task of attending school without proper winter clothing and warm winter boots.

For three days, a team of staff and volunteers made unannounced visits to targeted families, to distribute firewood for heating and cooking and to witness first hand the harsh living conditions. Families were invited to bring their children to the Shirak Centre NGO (which worked in coordination with the Paros Foundation on this project) and were fitted for warm winter boots and coats. In total, 350 children received winter boots, 160 children received winter coats and 60 families received a large supply of firewood. Although this effort does not address the root cause of these economic problems, it does provide immediate relief and hope for these families.

The Paros Foundation expresses its deepest appreciation to the Dadourian Foundation for their generous support of this effort and to the Shirak Centre for their cooperation.

Please consider having your family sponsor a project in memory of the 100^thanniversary of the Genocide, through the Paros Foundation’s 100 for 100 Projects for Prosperity, by visiting www.paros-foundation.org.

BERKELEY, CA—Applications are now available for The Paros Foundation’s SERVICE Armenia 2013 Program.  The program will run from June 24 to July 23, 2013 and will facilitate young people to travel and tour Armenia and Artsakh, while engaging in meaningful service projects benefiting Armenia and her people.

“Following the successes we experienced in 2012 with both groups of Armenian and American young people working on service projects in both Yerevan and in the regions, we look forward to summer 2013.  Participants will be working on renovating school classrooms and distributing shoes and other humanitarian aid.”  Said Peter Abajian, Executive Director of The Paros Foundation.

Throughout the program, participants will tour historic, religious and cultural sites throughout Armenia and Artsakh with experienced, English speaking staff and guides.  Safe and well located accommodations and transportation combined with interesting cultural and educational activities will ensure all will have a terrific and memorable experience.  The program is open to both Armenian and American young people wishing to participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity.  Knowledge of the Armenian language is not required.   Join us and create a lifetime of great memories and friends.

More information including photos and video and the application form can be found at www.paros-foundation.org/Armenia2013.  For more information, please contact Peter Abajian (310) 400-9061 or via E-mail peter@paros-foundation.org.