Arek’s Giving Campaign for Debi Arach
Description
As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, participants are raising funds for a Paros project they are passionate about. Arek has chosen to support the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri for humanitarian aid. The Center serves children from vulnerable families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.
Through this effort, Arek will raise funds that will directly support the children’s essential needs and overall well-being. Your support will make a meaningful difference in their lives and help create a brighter future.
A message from Arek:
From any time that I can remember, being Armenian has been an important part of my identity. Ever since I was little, I’ve eaten Armenian food, heard it spoken around me, and been told that I look and even act Armenian. Last summer, we went to Istanbul and I got to meet more of my Armenian family that is spread around the world. Meanwhile, we were so close to Armenia, but didn’t visit. That trip strengthened my sense of identity as an Armenian and made me realize how much I want to visit.
I recently heard about the Paros Foundation and the service trip that they organize to Armenia, which I’m planning to do this summer. It includes a mix of service opportunities and cultural visits, along with experiencing the social life in Armenia with kids my age. I was excited to finally be able to experience the vibrant culture that I have always only known from afar.
Along with organizing service trips, the Paros Foundation develops dozens of projects to support impoverished communities in Armenia. An important aspect of the trip is to raise money for the program that feels most important to me. I was drawn to the Humanitarian Aid for the Debi Arach program, which provides kids in need with backpacks, school supplies, winter coats, boots, shoes and groceries. I’m hoping to raise at least $4000 for Debi Arach in order to provide what these kids need most. As someone who has grown up in the Bay Area and attended private schools, I have always been privileged enough to not worry about having my essential needs met. My goal is not only to do my part to relieve this struggle, but also to spread awareness about the important work that the Paros and Debi Arach programs are providing. I’m asking you as our friends and family to help in this effort to support these communities. I also invite donors to a thank you reception with Armenian food and wine at my house at the end of the summer, where I will share my experience on the trip and how your donations contributed to this cause that is meaningful to me. You’ll also get a souvenir! Thank you for any support that you can give to this effort.
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Gallery Images
Ms. Mary Ahrens
San Francisco, CADr. Victoria Kaprielian
Durham, NCDer Vasken & Yn. Arpi Kouzouian
Arlington, MAFor The Birthday Of Peter Abajian
Drs. Robert & Maral Pigeon
Huntington Beach, CAIn Honor Of Peter Abajian
Mr. & Mrs. Patrick & Mary Goshtigian
Hermosa Beach, CAKarakachian Family
Glendale, CAIn Honor Of Peter Abajian
Ms. Annie Dilsizlian
Los Angeles, CAKK Legal & Advisory Services
Santa Barbara, CAMr. & Dr. Arman & Alenush Bernardi
La Canada, CAAnonymous
Sunland, CARaffi Allaverdi
Hackensack, NJAnonymous
Elmhurst, NYFor The Birthday Of Peter Abajian
Updates: Images & Information
Thank you to everyone who generously donated in honor of Peter's 60th birthday! Your donations helped us raise $16,000 for the Debi Arach operating budget and that is the best birthday gift of all.