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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

Tag: Available

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April 10, 2026

Arek’s Giving Campaign for Debi Arach

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:

This summer, I’m planning to go on a service trip to Armenia to connect with my roots and support meaningful change for families and children that are in need.

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, I got to see more of my Armenian family from around the world that came together in Istanbul to meet up with us. Feeling that shared family connection really meant a lot to me and strengthened my sense of identity as an Armenian. We were so close to Armenia, but didn’t visit and I realized how much I want to go there and connect.

I recently heard about the Paros Foundation and the service trip they lead, which includes a mix of service opportunities and cultural visits, along with experiencing the social life in Armenia with kids my age. I am excited to finally be able to experience the vibrant culture that I have 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 funds 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.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

April 2026

End Date

August 2026
$4,225 of $4,500 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

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Mr. & Mrs. Eric & Emma Gimon

Berkeley, CA
May 18, 2026
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MW

Mr. Peter Winch

San Francisco, CA
May 10, 2026
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ME

Ms. Naomi Edelson

Piedmont, CA
May 10, 2026
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Sita & David

Oakland, CA
April 30, 2026
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NF

Nemitz-Sawyer Family

CA, United States April 29, 2026
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Mr. Mike Lukan

Berkeley, CA
April 26, 2026
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Mr. & Mrs. Steve & Eldem Rank

Concord, CA
April 25, 2026
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Ms. Jennifer Charette

Albany, CA
April 24, 2026
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Milan Zydow & Virginie Tejero

Kensington, CA
April 23, 2026
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Mrs. Petek Cunningham

San Jose, CA
April 23, 2026
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Mr. & Mrs. Patrick & Lia McLoughlin

San Francisco, CA
April 21, 2026
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Mr. Valla Vakili

Orinda, CA
April 21, 2026
View More Sponsors
By Narine
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April 1, 2026

Orphaned Children’s Day Excursion 30

Orphaned Children Day Excursion 30

Description

More than 1,200 children live in Armenia’s 15 orphanages. These facilities provide for the children’s basic needs, but their limited budgets do not allow these children to participate in visits to popular historical sites, amusement parks, concerts, or attend cultural events.

Armenia’s orphan children should have the opportunity to experience popular cultural events, exhibits, and excursions. Many different activities and excursions can be organized for these children. The extent of the activity or trip is directly related to the sponsorship amount. For sponsorship amounts between $350 -$750 approximately 20 children and an appropriate number of chaperons will be able participate in a memorable activity. Please consider supporting multiple excursions for these children.

The Paros Foundation staff and volunteers will organize and oversee the excursion/activity. Opportunities to sponsor excursions for orphanages serving both disabled and non-disabled children exist. Whenever possible, our staff will work with the destination for the excursion to secure group pricing and/or discounts.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

Immediately
$0 of $350 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need
Armenia’s orphanages generally are able to provide for their children’s basic care, but limited funding does not allow these children to visit museums, historical sites and popular cultural events. Allowing a child a few hours of recreation and/or entertainment as a regular child greatly enhances his/her outlook on life and reduces the emotional complexes of being an orphan.
Short Term Impact
The short-term impact of this project will be the immediate employment of a bus driver, money being spent in Armenia’s local economy and most importantly the emotional and social benefits for 20 orphan children.
Long Term Impact
This project has considerable long-term emotional, educational and psychological benefits for the children, as they will be able to participate in activities that are above and beyond basic existence in an orphanage.
Sponsors Benefits
Your support of this project will be recognized at the relevant Orphanage, your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation stands ready to help you arrange a visit to the care facility when you are in Armenia.
Be the first to become a sponsor by donating to this project
By Narine
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March 9, 2026

Lernakert Culture House Roof Renovation

Lernakert Culture House Roof Renovation

Description

Lernakert is a small village in Armenia’s Shirak province, home to 1,413 residents and a vibrant community life centered around its culture house & community center. In recent years, community groups and local partners have renovated the building and created after‑school clubs and a game room where elders and young people gather to play chess, backgammon, and checkers.

These small but meaningful projects have improved children’s daily lives and restored hope among villagers. Today, Lernakert urgently needs support to renovate the roof of the Lernakert Culture House so it can continue to serve as a safe, welcoming hub for cultural events, education, and community gatherings for generations to come.

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Lernakert

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Three months after start date
$350 of $26,000 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

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The Need

The village of Lernakert is in need of funds to renovate the roof of the Lernakert Culture House so it can remain a safe, welcoming space for cultural events, education, and gatherings for years to come.

Short Term Impact

In the short term a local crew will be hired to complete renovation work on the roof renovation, creating jobs for the community. Residents will have a warm and safe place to attend year-round.

Long Term Impact

Renovating the Lernakert Culture House roof will secure a safe, year‑round gathering space where children, youth, and elders can access educational programs, cultural events, and community services. By preserving the dedicated cultural hub in Lernakert, the project will empower local residents to sustain after‑school clubs and community initiatives, nurture local talent and traditions, and create a more hopeful, resilient future for the next generation.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this project will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website, on a plaque at the Lernakert Culture House, and in appropriate press related to this important project. Visits can be arranged to Lernakert Village for sponsors during their visits to Armenia. 

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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Gohar Kibarian

Piedmont, CA
May 13, 2026
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DM

Drager Meurtant

Netherlands April 18, 2025
By vespartech
Sporting-Goods-for-Village-Schools-2-Hatsik
February 18, 2026

Sporting Goods for Village Schools

Sporting Goods for Village Schools

Description

For many of Armenia’s most isolated and poverty stricken regions, sporting equipment is difficult to come by and expensive to buy. By supporting this project you will help thousands of children attending schools in the poverty stricken villages throughout Armenia. Although schools in these villages may have a few sporting goods, often times, the kids are playing with items that are old, unsafe and unusable. Our goal is to purchase and distribute a variety of sporting goods and equipment to village schools and give these students the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, play individual and team sports and exercise. In addition, the completion of this project will help to promote health and fitness. The variety of sporting goods will include volleyballs, volleyball nets, basketballs, basketball hoops, soccer balls, soccer nets, wrestling mats, jump ropes, hula hoops, assortment of weights, tennis rackets, tennis balls and some gymnastics equipment based on the needs of individual schools.

Region

All

City / Village

All

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

One month after start date
$500 of $1,750 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

All-old-unsafe-and-unusable-sporting-goods-will-be-replaced-with-newer-and-safer-equipment-for-students-to-use.
All old, unsafe and unusable sporting goods will be replaced with newer and safer equipment for students to use.
Many-of-the-sporting-goods-are-unsafe-and-unusable.
Many of the sporting goods are unsafe and unusable.
Worn-out-volleyball-net.
Worn out volleyball net.
The Need
Children living in Armenia’s poverty stricken villages cannot afford basic toys and sporting goods that can provide them with hours of entertainment and good physical exercise. This effort would help meet this need.
Short Term Impact
Students at village schools will immediately benefit from use of the new equipment as part of the education and overall fitness.
Long Term Impact
In the long term the lives of several thousand children throughout the villages of Armenia will be positively affected. This project will not only promote good health through providing them with a chance to exercise, but will also help to increase good team work skills through team sports, and give them an opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to sponsor the Sporting Goods for Village Schools project will be recognized in appropriate press related to this important project and your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the village schools that have benefited from this project.
Anonymous User
MC

Mr. & Mrs. Ben & Niva Clark

Kirkland, WA
In Memory Of George & Hourig Kalebdjian May 5, 2026
By Narine
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February 11, 2026

Tech Aid for Ghoghanj Children’s Center

Tech Aid for Ghoghanj Children’s Center

Description

The Ghoghanj Children’s Center provides critical after-school and summer programs for socially and economically vulnerable children. Each year, the Kentron and Nor Nork centers serve approximately 170 students from extremely low-income families who would otherwise have no access to academic support or enrichment opportunities. For these children, the Center is not only a place to learn, but a safe and encouraging environment where they receive daily instruction, creative arts education, mentorship, and the emotional support needed to grow into confident and capable young adults.

Students take part in classes such as English, Russian, computer studies, design, painting, theater, and dance, gaining the skills and self-confidence necessary to succeed in school and build a brighter future. Technology plays a vital role in this process, yet the computer labs at both centers rely on machines that are 10–11 years old. While they have been carefully maintained and repeatedly upgraded over the years, they have reached the end of their useful life and can no longer meet the educational demands of the students.

Sponsorship of this project will help provide 12 new desktop computers for each center (24 total), giving students reliable access to modern technology, strengthening their academic experience, and ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.

Region

Yerevan / Երևան

City / Village

Kentron & Nor Nork

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

$100 of $24,000 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

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The Need

Technology plays a critical role in modern education and future employment. Both centers currently have small computer labs that the children rely on for learning essential digital skills.

Despite years of repairs and upgrades, these machines are now far beyond their functional lifespan. They are slow, unreliable, and no longer capable of supporting the educational programs the children need.

Short Term Impact

24 desktop computers will be locally obtained and distributed to both the Kentron and Nork Nork locations of the Ghoghanj Children’s Center. 

Long Term Impact

Your support will directly empower 170 at-risk children every year by giving them access to the tools they need to learn, create, and succeed in today’s digital world.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and be recognized with a plaque at the Centers and on the Center’s website and in their printed materials. Visits to the Ghoghanj Children’s Centers can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

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MM

Mr. Karnik Maskal

Australia
March 2, 2026
By Narine
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January 26, 2026

Goris Autism Center

Goris Autism Center

Description

As stated by the World Health organization, it is estimated that worldwide about 1 in 100 children have autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition, which involves challenges with socialization, narrow interests and repetitive behavior. Autism is a spectrum because it manifests itself differently in everyone, resulting in varying levels of needed support. This means that although on average children can be diagnosed between the ages of 2-3; some children can be diagnosed as young as 18 months while others may not receive a diagnosis until well into adulthood. Additionally, boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

The cause of ASD has not yet been identified; however, modern science indicates that genetics and environmental factors play a significant role. Some people strongly believe that ASD is a disease. However, a disease typically has a known cause (such as bacteria or viruses), ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, and is not something that can be cured, rather be managed and supported. ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.

Diagnosing ASD usually involves multiple processes: developmental monitoring, screening, and comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. Instead of self-diagnosing your child, asking for advice from relatives, or hoping your child will grow out of certain behaviors, it is crucial to seek medical advice and intervene as early as possible. The sooner the parents find out about the diagnosis, the better the developmental outcome will be. Pediatricians typically assess children’s developmental progress during routine well-child visits at 18 and 24 months, even if no symptoms are evident. These assessments involve observing the child and discussing family history.

One of the most common treatments is behavioral therapy.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research and evidence-based therapy that looks to improved children with ASD’s social, communication, and learning skills through positive reinforcement. It can additionally support greater independence for activities of daily living such as eating, getting dressed, going to the toilet, bathing, etc. Additionally, there are some other interventions which can also be effective such as speech-language therapy (helps individuals with ASD to improve both verbal and non-verbal communication), physical therapy (help with movement and balance, enhancing motor skills and overall physical coordination), occupational therapy (helps with fine motor skills such as utensil eating and writing) and much more. Some children may need access to all these therapies and more, while others will benefit from only one or a few. Each child’s circumstance will vary depending on where they are on the spectrum.  

The municipality of Goris stands ready to assist and partner in this important effort for the children of Goris. 

Region

Syunik

City / Village

Goris & Surrounding Villages

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

18 months from start
$57,630 of $128,000 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

IMG_7720
The building that has been identified for purchase to facilitate the new autism center in central Goris.
The Need

In the communities of Goris and surrounding villages, children with autism do not receive any specialized services or therapy because a specialized autism center does not exist.  Once this center is funded and open, local therapists will receive specialized training to offer a full array of therapy for the more than 200 children with autism in the area. 

Short Term Impact

In the short term, a facility will be purchased and expanded to serve as the autism center.  This will create a modest boost in the local economy as all labor and materials will be purchased locally.  Therapists will also receive specialized training and be prepared to begin working at the center with these children.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, children with autism will receive the needed therapy and support they need to live their lives to the fullest.  Families will be given the tools they need to facilitate better support for their children.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project. Visits to the center  can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

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@armocomplex

Porter Ranch, CA February 28, 2026
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Ms. Adrienne Krikorian

Calabasas, CA
In Memory Of Haig & Lucine Krikorian February 27, 2026
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StarHill Associates

United States
December 26, 2025
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Ajemian Foundation

Troy, MI December 17, 2025
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SF

Sedik Vartkhatoon Memorial Fund

United States
December 10, 2025

Updates: Images & Information

Jun 10, 2025
Jun 10, 2025
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September 16, 2025
September 16, 2025
October 25, 2025
October 25, 2025
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June 10, 2025

Now with school out, our crew has begun the work to renovate the school's science lab and storage rooms.  

July 25, 2025

Thanks to the successful fundraising efforts of John and June Mangassarian and the generosity of their family and friends, this project is being expanded to include the reconstruction of the school's teacher's lounge and the principal's office.  In addition, school supplies for the displaced children from Artsakh who now attend the school will be purchased and provided for the upcoming school year.  Finally, a critical shortage of books for the school's library will also be addressed as part of this expanded project with the assistance of the Armenian Educational Foundation.  

November 7, 2025

The school science laboratory renovation has now been completed. With the assistance of the government, essential laboratory equipment has been provided. Classes have officially begun, and students are now actively attending laboratory classes and utilizing the new instruments as part of their science education. 

By Narine
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November 9, 2025

Jobs for People w/Disabilities

Jobs for People with Disabilities

Description

For 17 years, Unison NGO for Support of People with Special Needs has been a leading advocate for the rights, inclusion, and independence of people with disabilities in Armenia. Through programs focused on accessibility, inclusive education, and employment, Unison works to remove barriers and ensure people with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, work, and thrive within their communities.

Today, Unison is helping create life-changing employment opportunities through a partnership with a diamond-processing company committed to inclusive hiring. The company plans to employ up to 20–25 individuals with disabilities and is adapting its facilities to ensure accessibility, while Unison provides guidance and connects qualified candidates with these opportunities.

These are real opportunities in an inclusive workplace where people with disabilities can work, grow, and thrive with dignity and independence.

Your support will help Unison continue creating accessible workplaces, expanding employment opportunities, and empowering people with disabilities across Armenia. Every donation helps build a more inclusive future.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

All

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

$600 of $4,000 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

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Unison has placed hundreds of people with disabilities into meaningful employment opportunities.
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Armenia's Ministry of Emergency Situations has several people with disabilities employed thanks to the efforts of the Unison NGO.
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There is no limit to what a person with a disability can accomplish.
The Need

One of the most important on-going projects of Unison is promotion of employment for PWDs. However, in January 2019 Unison was suddenly deprived of the state support for this project. In spite of the absence of government and/orgrant support, Unison has continued serving young job seekers with disabilities. 9 PWDs have been placed to jobs since the beginning of the year, but needs the balance of funding to continue this important work through the end of the year.

Short Term Impact

In the near term, Unison’s efforts to help secure employment for PWDs will continue.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, because of Unison’s work, PWDs will continue to work, support their families and become contributing members of society. In addition, PWD in the work force will significantly contribute to a change in perceptions and bias toward PWDs.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors to this project will be listed on The Paros Foundation website, Unison’s website and in any appropriate press related to this important project. Visitors to Armenia can visit this project.

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Mr. & Mrs. Gregory & Roobina Ovanessian

San Mateo, CA
December 24, 2025
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MK

Mr. Sevak Kalaidjian

Canada
December 22, 2023
Anonymous User
CO

Client Outreach

United States July 7, 2021
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Mr. Richard Alonso & Mrs. Lori Keurian Alonso

Manhasset, NY
January 8, 2020
By vespartech
White Beige Minimalist Photo Collage Wraparound Mug
October 22, 2025

Med-Aid Armenia: Impact Healthcare

Med-Aid Armenia: Impact Healthcare

Description

Armenia’s government has prioritized basic primary healthcare as an area that must be improved.  Simultaneously, Armenia is working towards implementing a plan for universal healthcare.  However, across Armenia’s remote and impoverished regions, many residents face overwhelming challenges in accessing even basic medical services. Preventable and treatable conditions often go unaddressed simply because healthcare is either too far away or too costly.

To help change this reality, and help build the foundation for Armenia’s improvements in the healthcare delivery system, The Paros Foundation launched Med-Aid Armenia, which is dedicated to delivering essential medical care, supplies, and support to those most in need, in addition to helping lay foundational blocks upon which to help change the overall system. 

Sponsorship of this initiative will directly fund the purchase of basic medical equipment, supplies, and medicine necessary for our outreach efforts, and help support system wide efforts to help Armenia reach her healthcare system goals.  In-kind donations of these materials are also gratefully accepted. Below is a current list of our fundraising needs.

In addition, we are seeking medical professionals—including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists—to volunteer their skills and assist our teams in conducting health screenings and providing fundamental medical care in underserved areas during our Med-Aid annual trip to Armenia. 

Together, we can bring hope, healing, and healthier futures to Armenia’s most vulnerable communities.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

October 2025

End Date

December 2027
$69,500 of $152,200 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need

Armenia’s government is working towards making significant changes in Armenia’s healthcare delivery system, but needs significant assistance in reaching basic benchmarks.  Access to healthcare in Armenia’s remote and impoverished areas is scarce and often unaffordable, leading to preventable medical issues. Residents urgently need basic medical aid to protect their health and prevent future complications.

Short Term Impact
In the short term, essential equipment and medical supplies will be provided to clinics in impoverished areas for patient care, while continuing education will be offered to medical staff at several partner clinics across Armenia.
Long Term Impact

In the long term, through piloting meaningful evidence based changes to the healthcare delivery system, Armenia’s healthcare system will be able to benefit its citizens. By bringing consistent medical care, new equipment and updated methods to Armenia’s remote and impoverished villages, this program will help reduce preventable health issues and improve long-term well-being. As the initiative grows, repeat visits will expand access to healthcare and strengthen the overall health of these communities.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to sponsor the Med-Aid Armenia will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website and in all appropriate press related to this important project.

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DB

Dr Christine Yeramian Balekian and Mr Vahan Balekian

Simi Valley, CA
In Memory Of Sarkis Yeramian Avedis Balekian June 2, 2026
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MC

Mrs. Mirta Arsenian Cali

Redwood City, CA
April 1, 2026
Anonymous User
DH

Dr. Holly Haggerty-Sokolowski

Littleton, CO
In Honor Of Dr. Ty Essegian March 27, 2026
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Dadourian

Summit, NJ March 3, 2026
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BP

Anonymous

Altadena, CA February 27, 2026
Anonymous User
MG

Ms. Rubina Ghazarian

Los Angeles, CA
December 31, 2025
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TY

Talene Yacoubian

Vestavia Hills, AL December 31, 2025
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MR

Mr. & Mrs. Hirant & Alis Rakijian

Irvine, CA December 27, 2025
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MS

Mr. Armen Skenderian

Danvers, MA
December 5, 2025
Anonymous User
HF

Hacet Foundation

Prospect, KY November 24, 2025
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MP

Mr. & Mrs. Bryan & Monica Perez

Altadena, CA
November 17, 2025
Anonymous User
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Ms. Betty Tutor

Pasadena, CA November 11, 2025
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By Narine
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September 3, 2025

Komitas Conservatory Student Scholarships 2025-2026

Komitas Conservatory Student Scholarships 2025-2026

Description

The Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul has created a scholarship fund in memory of one if its founding members, Mr. Shahen Kavafian.

Mr. Kavafian was born on August 24, 1933 in Istanbul, Turkey, where he received his primary education.  He graduated from Robert College in Istanbul and then moved to the United States to further his education. He received a master’s degree in engineering at the University of Michigan and settled in metro Detroit.  He worked at Detroit Edison for the entirety of his professional career.  

In 1964, he became one of the founding members of the Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul, an organization which helps promote Armenian cultural and educational programs.  Mr. Kavafian shared a love of music and the arts with his mother, who was an accomplished pianist.  

When Mr. Kavafian passed away on April 20, 2019, he left a generous contribution to the Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul.  To honor his memory, a music scholarship fund has been created in 2024 to support student’s attending the Komitas Conservatory in Yerevan, Armenia.  

Students wishing to apply for this scholarship may do so through the.

APPLY HERE/ԴԻՄԵԼ ԱՅՍՏԵՂ

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Yerevan

Start Date

2025

End Date

2026
$9,000 of $10,000 raised
$
Personal Info

Dedicate this Donation

Honoree Details

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $100 One Time

Gallery Images

Kav
Shahen Kavafian 1933-2019
The Need

Students who wish to pursue studies at the Komitas Conservatory often have financial difficulties meeting their tuition requirements.  The government of Armenia does offer some tuition assistance to students in need, however they cannot meet the needs of all of the students.  

Short Term Impact

In the short term, students who are in financial need will be able to continue their musical education with the support of these scholarships. 

Long Term Impact

In the long term, Armenia’s rich cultural and heritage will be promoted through these students pursuit of the arts.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project. Visits to the Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

Anonymous User
CS

Cultural Society Of Armenians From Istanbul

Southfield, MI April 29, 2026
Anonymous User
CS

Cultural Society Of Armenians From Istanbul

Southfield, MI September 21, 2025
Anonymous User
CS

Cultural Society Of Armenians From Istanbul

Southfield, MI April 30, 2025
By Narine
DA 2026-2
May 28, 2025

Debi Arach Children’s Center 2026 Operating Budget

Debi Arach Children's Center 2026 Operating Budget

Description

The Paros Foundation launched the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri, Armenia on April 15, 2015 with the help of generous donors. The center, which provides 185 children each week the necessary academic, psychological, social and humanitarian support, has since been a source of positivity in this city. The residents of Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city have endured very devastating realities since the tragic 1988 Spitak Earthquake. More than 100,000 residents were left homeless, and plagued with unemployment and rampant poverty for years to come. In turn, the fate of children in Gyumri has also been affected. Dealing with the difficulty of finding means to feed and care for their families, many parents are unable to provide their children with the proper guidance, supervision, educational aid and the financial resources for them to excel in school and have successful futures. The Debi Arach Children’s Center, which in Armenian means “moving forward,” helps these socially vulnerable children through a holistic approach providing them with both humanitarian and educational support. The center provides counseling and group therapy with a psychologist on staff, homework help and tutoring for almost every subject the children learn in school including English, Math, Art/Design, and Computer classes. Additionally, they are served a nutritious meal everyday, helping them receive the calories and/or nutrients they would otherwise not have. Furthermore, the Center addresses a very important hygienic need by providing the children in attendance with supervised bathing facilities. The goal is to help hundreds of children develop a vision for a successful future, and to give them the skills they need to reach these goals. This project is impacting the lives of hundreds of socially vulnerable children by helping them gain the guidance and support they need in order to create greater future opportunities, and become successful individuals and good citizens.

To date, the center has already had several important successes. At least nine children have been taken out of boarding schools, attend our center and now live back at home with their families. Many of the children who were receiving poor grades in school are now achieving top scores. The children have become socially well adjusted and much more healthier than before with the continued consumption of multi-vitamins and a daily well-balanced meal. Staff trainings take place with an academic counsel of professionals from the United States and Armenia to ensure that the children are receiving the best care, treatment and methods for their development.

The center is working on funding year ten and raising additional funds in order to develop and add to the programs and classes offered with the ability to hire more educators, and get more supplies, and equipment. Funds will also be used to supplement daily activities, hold forums for guest speakers and provide educational and career planning opportunities. $92,000 is needed to cover operating costs for the Center. In January of 2017, Debi Arach successfully launched its first program within its Vocational Training Center, teaching children computer programming, 3d printing and robotics curriculum. The goal of this newest component is to provide these children with marketable job skills in order to help them work themselves out of poverty. In 2019, with the long term commitment by Dr. & Mrs. Gary and Linda Assarian (MI) the vocational training program was renamed the Assarian Vocational Training Program.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

April 2026

End Date

March 2027
$78,239 of $125,000 raised
$
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Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need

Thousands of children in Gyumri are living in extreme poverty, with no hope for a decent future. These socially vulnerable children are in need of a safe and enriching environment where they can receive additional guidance through social, psychological and academic support giving them a chance to break their cycle of poverty. The children’s center will continue to provide these children with the opportunity to attend afterschool and summer school programs providing them with the additional skills necessary for a successful future. Additionally, these children suffer from malnutrition and related illnesses due to a lack of well-balanced meals. The center will continue to provide each child with a nutritious meal everyday, helping them receive the calories and/or nutrients they need. Furthermore, many families were forced to take refuge in overseas shipping containers (domiks), or in condemned buildings after the devastating 1988 Spitak Earthquake or due to their poor socioeconomic status. An entire generation of children has grown up in deplorable conditions, often times with no running water and little or no heat to take showers. The Center will address this very important hygienic need by continuing to provide the children in attendance with supervised new bathing facilities.

Short Term Impact

The short-term 185 children will receive immediate support and guidance to help them succeed for the second year. The Center will continue offer nutritious meals, bathing facilities, counseling opportunities, homework aid and tutoring and core classes including English, Computer, Art/Design, and Math.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, with the success of the Center’s current offerings, additional classes and programs will be added and attendance will rise. The number of children growing up in poverty in the future will decrease as the number of children successfully graduating from our program and continuing onto college or successful vocations increases. The number of “social orphans” and children temporarily residing in boarding schools in Gyumri will be reduced as parents become increasingly able to keep their children at home given the humanitarian support they receive at the center. Through ongoing employment opportunities created, several families will continue to receive a fair wage, hence improving Gyumri’s economy.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to sponsor the operating cost for 2025 of the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri will be recognized with a plaque at the Center and on the Center’s website and in their printed materials. Your name will also be listed as a sponsor on The Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will proudly arrange a visit to the new Center when you are in Armenia.

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Ms. Monica Markarian

PA, United States May 7, 2026
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Mrs. Janice Hoyt

Weymouth, MA
In Memory Of Carol Gavoorian O’Brien May 6, 2026
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Mrs. Sandra Riley

Ashburn, VA
May 3, 2026
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Mr. Ara Arakelian

Sun Valley, CA April 20, 2026
Anonymous User
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Ms. Monica Markarian

PA, United States April 7, 2026
Anonymous User
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Mr. Ara Arakelian

Sun Valley, CA March 20, 2026
Anonymous User
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Ms. Monica Markarian

PA, United States March 7, 2026
Anonymous User
MA

Mr. Ara Arakelian

Sun Valley, CA February 20, 2026
Anonymous User
MM

Ms. Monica Markarian

PA, United States February 7, 2026
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Ms. Ariana Kabodian

Novi, MI
January 28, 2026
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Mr. Ara Arakelian

Sun Valley, CA January 20, 2026
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Ms. Monica Markarian

PA, United States January 7, 2026
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Updates: Images & Information

April 30, 2026
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April 20, 2026

At the Debi Arach Children’s Center, students are eager to learn, explore, and grow, but outdated computers—now over a decade old—limit their ability to fully engage in today’s digital world. Technology plays a vital role in modern education, and with access to updated tools, these children will be better equipped to develop new skills, express their creativity, and build a stronger foundation for their future. Through this effort, we will replace 20 computers—each equipped with a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and essential software—with each complete workstation costing $1,000.

By Garik Khachatryan