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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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Mobile Dental Clinic 2022/2023

Mobile Dental Clinic 2022/23

Description

The Armenian Dental Society of California has partnered with The Paros Foundation in order to help revive its mobile dental clinic and help bring dental care for poverty stricken communities in Armenia. Dental hygiene is commonly overlooked in many of these communities due to several reasons. Dental supplies and dental care are either very hard to find or too expensive for residents in these villages to afford.

To date, the Mobile Dental Clinic has served over 100,000 patients. Drs. Gary Kevorkian and Jack Bayramyan have taken the lead to help secure funding for the clinic. Sponsorship of this project will help raise the funds needed to keep the mobile clinic in operation. The clinic has two dentists, a nurse, a driver on staff who travel along with the mobile clinic and provide dental care for village residents. Dentists from the US have the opportunity to join the two local dentists on a volunteer basis. $2,700 will help keep the mobile clinic working for one month. Dental care provided by the mobile clinic will include basic child oral care and education, cleanings, fillings and other basic care.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

January 2022

End Date

December 2023
Mobile Dental Clinic 2022/2023

Thank you to all our donors, we have met our fundraising goal.

The Need

Dental supplies and dental clinics are very hard to find or too expensive for residents living in Armenia’s remote and/or poverty stricken villages. This can cause a lifetime of dental problems and oral disease. Residents living in these areas are in need of dental care in order to be able to prevent serious dental issues in the future.

Short Term Impact

Residents of remote and poverty stricken villages will be visited by the mobile dental clinic and receive basic dental care. In addition, two dentists from Armenia will be hired to work alongside volunteer dentists from the United States.

Long Term Impact

Residents of remote and poverty stricken villages will have a decreased chance of tooth decay and serious oral issues in their future.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to sponsor the Mobile Dental Clinic will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website and in all appropriate press related to this important project.

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Dr. Gary Kevorkian

Glendale, CA December 18, 2024
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Mr. Diran Depanian

Los Angeles, CA
December 8, 2023
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Mr. & Mrs. Stephan & Kristina Findikyan

Pelham, NY
September 29, 2023
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Mr. & Mrs. Karnig & Sandukht Mikaelian

Livermore, CA
September 15, 2023
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Ms. Marine Aarakelians

San Bruno, CA August 22, 2023
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Dr. Carmen Ohanian

Glendale, CA
August 21, 2023
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Ms. Linda Azarian

New York, NY
August 19, 2023
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Mr. Philip Donian

San Francisco, CA
In Honor Of Leo Donian August 18, 2023
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Meline Sirounian & Family

Altadena, CA August 18, 2023
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Ms. Tara Petrosian-Lovitt

Los Angeles, CA
In Memory Of Rita Khatchatourian August 18, 2023
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Arax Mansourian & Shahen Hairapetian

San Marino, CA August 17, 2023
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Anonymous

Livermore, CA August 17, 2023
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Updates: Images & Information

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Roots in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur

Roots in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur

Description

Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur (NKA) is a village located on the border of Armenia and Azerbaijan. The population is around 1,000 people and the main source of economic activity revolves around the agriculture sector. Economic opportunities in border villages like NKA are extremely limited due to lack of investment and safety issues. Without these opportunities, families are forced to either find work elsewhere, or move out of the region entirely. The Tavush region sees much of it’s economic activity in the summer months when fruits and vegetables are grown. The products are then either directly sold to consumers or undergo further processing before being sold. Tavush in particular is known for its production of fruits, such as Apples, Pomegranates, Persimmon, and much more. The Paros Foundation seeks to establish a small orchard in the village of Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur (NKA). The orchard will be located on the grounds of the local school; Paros has completed extensive renovations on the campus, and as a result has developed strong, productive relationships with school administrators and community leaders. More than 800 high quality fruit trees will be planted along with a drip irrigation water system. Staff will both oversee the orchard on a regular basis and provide a living classroom experience for students at the school. Within three years, it is expected that the orchard will provide commercially viable quantities of fruit. This project will have the added benefit of encouraging the creation of other local businesses to further process the fruit and creating additional value for the marketplace. Proceeds will be reinvested into the community.

Region

Tavush

City / Village

Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur

Start Date

August 2020

End Date

August 2025
$23,931 of $50,000 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
Economic opportunities in border villages like NKA are extremely limited due to lack of investment and safety issues.
Short Term Impact
In the short term, several employees will benefit from the work in preparing the school grounds for planting 800+ fruit bearing trees. A new full time staff position at the school will be created to support both the orchard and classroom instruction.
Long Term Impact
In the long term, once this pilot project proves successful in helping improve the economics of this village, this project will be replicated in other needy communities.
Sponsors Benefits
Sponsors of this important project will be listed on a plaque at the orchard, on The Paros Foundation website, and in all appropriate public statements. Visits to the orchard can be arranged for families visiting Armenia.
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Ms. Anna Bohigian

Mission Viejo, CA
December 10, 2024
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA January 21, 2023
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA December 21, 2022
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA November 21, 2022
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA October 21, 2022
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA September 21, 2022
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA August 21, 2022
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Mr. Grant Keligian

Newport Beach, CA August 13, 2022
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Mr. Christopher Kibarian

Piedmont, CA July 21, 2022
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Mr. Grant Keligian

Newport Beach, CA July 13, 2022
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Updates: Images & Information

November 26, 2020

With the drip irrigation system installed, staff, students and teachers joined in to plant more than 800 fruit trees.

March 18, 2021

Classroom and field based instruction began for the students at the Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur Primary School. They will learn how to manage the orchard through hands-on activities. 

November 16, 2021

Students helped plant 18 new trees in place of those that needed to be replaced. 

July 29, 2021

The Paros team visited the school orchard today. We were delighted to find that the trees were giving fruit and in full bloom getting ready for fall. 

March 28, 2023

A sign thanking our sponsors is added for providing this school with an orchard.

June 13, 2023

For a second season in a row, the orchard is providing fruit for the Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur Primary School. The cherries are ready to be picked and we are excited to have a full crop in 2024.

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Aygepar Business Incubator

Aygepar Business Incubator

Description

Aygepar is a village of 675 people located in Armenia’s Tavush region.  The terrain is such that Azerbaijan is surrounding this village on three sides with sniper posts in the hills above.  53 of the village’s men work as contract soldiers guarding this important border and protecting their homes.  Few other jobs exist in this village to support the 210 families that call Aygepar their home.  The village does not have much land to grow crops and/or care for animals, making agribusinesses difficult to implement.  During the Soviet Union, the village of Aygepar was built to sustain workers working at the three (now non-functioning) village factories (tobacco processing, champaign and fruit preserves and compote.)

To address the dire economic situation for Aygepar’s residents, The Paros Foundation will establish a business incubator aimed at establishing conditions to allow the start of several small businesses for local families. With proper oversight, training and guidance villages will be able to launch their businesses in sanitary conditions and take advantage of a larger marketplace. The Paros Foundation has been granted ten year usage of one of three abandoned factories for the project’s use free of charge. The Paros Foundation needs to raise a total of $75,000 to make investments in the facility and to support the launch of this important project.

The Paros Foundation will provide space to locals interested in starting their businesses rent free. In addition, Paros staff is dedicated to investigating and helping secure export opportunities for commodities and/or helping secure distribution to the marketplace.

Region

Tavush

City / Village

Aygepar

Start Date

August 2020

End Date

Eight Years From Start Date
$212,410 of $245,000 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

The villagers in the border community of Aygepar need opportunities to work and to care for their families. The village does not have much land to grow crops and care for animals. Most survive with the small gardens they have at their homes. One of three abandoned factories in the village needs to be renovated to launch a Business Incubator to help provide rent-free space and technological knowledge for villages to start their businesses.

Short Term Impact

A construction crew will be immediately hired to make the necessary renovations to the building that will house the Aygepar Business Incubator. Local materials and labor will be utilized that will immediately benefit the local economy.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, village families will benefit from the businesses they are able to start through their work and ownership. The village as a whole will benefit through this increase in income from its residents. Based on the improved economic conditions, villagers will feel more secure and stable in Aygepar, and thus be less likely to consider abandoning their homes and moving elsewhere.

Sponsors Benefits

Sponsors of this project will be listed on The Paros Foundation website, in any appropriately related print or electronic promotional materials, and on a plaque at the Aygepar Business Incubator.

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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA May 10, 2025
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA April 10, 2025
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA March 10, 2025
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA February 10, 2025
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA January 10, 2025
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA December 10, 2024
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA November 10, 2024
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA October 10, 2024
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Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Lena Adishian

El Segundo, CA
September 10, 2024
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Mr. Dikran Samourkashian

Cupertino, CA May 17, 2024
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Mr. & Mrs. Mihran & Nancy Berejikian

Sacramento, CA
May 9, 2024
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Mr. Mr. Edward Tomassian

Glendale, CA
February 16, 2024
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Updates: Images & Information

May 1, 2020

After more than a year of researching and planning, our team had made the decision to begin renovation of space and begin the process of job creation by launching the first of the many businesses envisioned at the Aygepar Business Incubator. We decided it would be much more beneficial for the community to have the opportunity to utilize quality, clean and secure space for their business, rather than promote any one specific business. Initial serious consideration was given to open a mushroom farm in the space, but due to the inability to attract technical expertise in the form of a project partner, it was determined that this is a much better path to follow.

August 12, 2020

A new roof was built and installed over one half of the building to allow us to launch the first businesses including a rabbit farm and fertilizer production.

 
December 23, 2020

Both the rabbit farm and fertilizer projection businesses were launched this month.

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Shirak Center NGO Aid

Shirak Center NGO Aid

Description

The Shirak Center NGO, established in 2006, has been an instrumental organization aimed at helping Gyumri and its residents. Chairman, Vahan Tumasyan, and his staff have worked tirelessly for years fighting for the rights of impoverished residents, helping bring humanitarian aid and supplies to their families and helping shed light on their devastating living conditions. Furthermore, the Shirak Center NGO aims at bridging differences between local authorities and communities in Gyumri through coalition building and conflict resolution, and promotes homeless advocacy, and economic and social rights and civil liberties.

The Shirak Center NGO is also an important partner of The Paros Foundation and together we have successfully implemented several projects in Gyumri’s impoverished neighborhoods including the distribution of winter boots and coats for children, firewood for fuel to keep families warm and give them the ability to cook in the winter, identified and moved families out of domiks into homes and worked with children from these neighborhoods.

In order to continue this important work the Shirak Center NGO is always in need of additional funding. Sponsorship of this project will provide the funds needed to allow Shirak Center NGO to continue to distribute firewood for fuel for heating and cooking. Gyumri’s harsh winters and extreme poverty has led to families burning trash to keep warm and cook food for their families. Shirak Center NGO will also use the funds in order to locate and identify the vacant domiks in Gyumri, purchase the domiks from their owners, demolish them and distribute the remaining scraps of wood to other families in need who are still living in domiks and condemned buildings. Demolishing these domiks has several benefits including raising the communities morale, returning land to its former use and providing firewood for fuel to impoverished families. Finally, some of the funds will also be used to promote the work the organizations does through marketing, social media and communications and administration costs.

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

January 2021
$1,950 of $40,000 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
The Shirak Center NGO and the aid they provide impoverished families in Gyumri have become a vital part of these family’s future well-being and success. They are in need of funding in order to continue their important work.
Short Term Impact
In the short term, the Shirak Center NGO will be able to immediately continue their programs and distribute firewood to domik families, tear down abandoned domiks and distribute the firewood for heat to families, market their organization and cover some administrative costs.
Long Term Impact
In the long term, the advocacy work led by the Shirak Center NGO, combined with the humanitarian aid they provide Gyumri’s impoverished families will help these families come out of their devastating conditions gradually and will steer them towards a positive future.
Sponsors Benefits
Sponsors of this project will be recognized on all relevant press regarding this project and on The Paros Foundation and Shirak Center NGO websites and social media outlets.
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Ms. Christina Tusan

La Crescenta, CA
In Honor Of Elizabeth Tusan December 30, 2023
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Mr. Daniel Donabedian

Watertown, MA March 1, 2021
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Ms. Yester Edikyan

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Dr. Sarkis Kiramijyan & Mrs. Anna Harutyunyan

La Crescenta, CA
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Sara Mkrtchian

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Sabrina Tilimian

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Lucine Saakyan

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Eliza Dzhaneryan

CA, United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Armine Arakelian

CA, United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 3, 2021
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Ms. Ida Babayan

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday January 1, 2021
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Ms. Marine Kombajyan

CA, United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday December 30, 2020
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Ms. Gayane Bedinian

United States
In Honor Of Eliza Dzhaneryan's Birthday December 30, 2020
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Lernakert Culture House Renovation

Lernakert Culture House Renovation

Description

Shirak province’s Lernakert community is located on the western slope of mount Aragats, 10 kilometers south from Artik town and 35 kilometers away from the province capital Gyumri. This community was established in 1840 and was inhabited by refugees from Mush and Alashkert. Lernakert has a population of 1,413 and has a culture house, a kindergarten, a medical point, a community center and a secondary school. Starting from July-September 2017, “Women for Development” NGO (WFD NGO) has established a community active group in Lernakert, and conducted capacity development trainings as well as community needs assessment discussions. The main goal of the community active group (CAG) is to empower the self-development of the community, to raise existing issues and to promote community participation and mobilization.

During past two years, several issues raised by CAG have been partially resolved, such as creation of healthy environment and satisfactory conditions for organizing the children’s and youth’s spare time. Thus, with the support from WFD NGO, the village kindergarten’s kitchen was renovated and adequate sanitary conditions were created for organizing daily food provision process for 55 children. Additionally, a playground was built, which is being used by approximately 300 children and youth. The playground is located in front of the culture house, which is a building dating back to 1960 and has not been renovated for a long time. Small projects implemented in the recent years in Lernakert created positive changes in the children’s routine and revoked hope among the villagers, which in turn triggered new ideas and new projects.

Back in May of 2019, as the result of discussions with the CAG and other community members, it was decided to make the renovation of the culture house a priority issue. New project proposal was developed, with an aim of establishing after-school clubs for children and youth, as well as organizing the spare time of the adults. Currently this project is ongoing. This was possible due to the joint fundraising efforts of WFD NGO, Lernakert mayor’s office and community population. Last August the project was successfully implemented and now there is a one renovated room in the culture house. This room serves the community elders and youth as a space for playing brain games such as backgammon, chess and checkers.

“Women for Development” NGO has partnered with The Paros Foundation to raise the funding necessary to renovate three additional rooms in the culture house. These rooms will serve as spaces for organizing various clubs for village kids, such as singing, dancing, sewing and painting clubs. The Lernakert mayor’s office is fully supporting and willing to take care of organizing the renovation works necessary for implementing this project.

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Lernakert

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Three months after start date
$100 of $6,500 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

The Lernakert community is in need of funding in order to expand their current culture house with the renovation of three additional rooms, which will serve as spaces for cultural development of over 300 children of pre-school and school age, as well as organization of the spare time of approximately 80 youth and students.

Short Term Impact

In the short term Lernakert culture house will have three newly renovated and furnished rooms. More than 300 children and 80 youth will have an opportunity to participate in various cultural clubs in their village free of charge, and for organizing their spare time in interesting and effective way.

Long Term Impact

In the long term more than 300 children and 80 youth will have an opportunity to participate in various cultural clubs in their village free of charge, and for organizing their spare time in interesting and effective way.

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drager meurtant

Netherlands April 18, 2025
P81205-123503-1-e1547009206152

Stepanavan School #2 Improvement

Stepanavan St. Gregory The Illuminator School #2 Improvement Project

Description

The town of Stepanavan is located in Armenia’s northern portion of the Lori Region. More than 10,000 people live in this ancient town. Stepanavan can trace it earliest settlements to the 4th century. Stepanavan was devastated by the 1988 earthquake including losing one of its primary schools. The Western Diocese of the Armenian Church raised the funds to build a new school for the children in Stepanavan. Vartkes Barsam, a philanthropist and active member of the Armenian community of Los Angeles served as project manager and oversaw the construction. The school was opened on 2003 and has served more than 525 children per year since. While the school has been well maintained, it is time to address some of the larger needs of the school starting with the heating system, school windows, bathrooms and to create a kitchen and dining hall.  Following these important capital improvements, the balance of the school will receive a cosmetic renovation including new lighting and a fresh coat of paint.

A new boiler room will be built adjacent to the school and two large capacity boilers will be installed to heat new radiators throughout the school (which also have to be installed.) New windows throughout the school will also be installed to improve the efficiency of the overall heating of the school. This phase of work will cost the following:

$6,000 Construction of a new boiler room.
$95,000 Installation of two new boilers, pipes and radiators throughout the three floors of the school.
$44,000 Installation of 540 square meters of new double pain windows throughout the school.

Region

Lori / Լոռի

City / Village

Stepanavan / Ստեփանավան

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Four months from start date
$227,672 of $325,000 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

School #2 in Stepanavan serves more than 525 children. The school needs a new heating system and new windows to help provide a safe and comfortable environment for the children in which to learn.

Short Term Impact

In the near term, more than 525 children and the school’s staff will enjoy a safer and more comfortable learning environment. The local economy will benefit with locals labor and materials utilized whenever possible.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, thousands of children and staff will benefit from the renovations completed at the school. Because of better heating, the school will better accommodate a variety of after school programming for the children in the colder winter months.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this project will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website, on a plaque at the Stepanavan St. Gregory The Illuminator School #2, and in appropriate press related to this important project. Visits can be arranged to Stepanavan for sponsors during their visits to Armenia.

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Mr. Pompeyo Cepeda

North Hollywood, CA December 20, 2024
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Ms. Diane Barsam

Newport Beach, CA September 6, 2023
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Ms. Diane Barsam

Newport Beach, CA April 24, 2023
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Ms. Mary Kanian

Walnut, CA
In Memory Of Vartkes Barsam April 18, 2023
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Mrs. Sheila Papayans

Palos Verdes Estates, CA April 10, 2023
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The Shirvanian Family Foundation

Newport Beach, CA April 4, 2023
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Mr. Dickran Barsam

North Hollywood, CA March 29, 2023
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Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth & Cynthia Norian

Beverly Hills, CA March 20, 2023
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Drs. Bryan & Katrina Vanesian

Apple Valley, CA
In Memory Of Vartkes Barsam March 13, 2023
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Ms. Diane Barsam

Newport Beach, CA November 18, 2021
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Ms. Diane Barsam

Newport Beach, CA June 4, 2021
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Mr. Charles Raine

Palos Verdes, CA
In Memory Of Vartkes & Jean Barsam December 6, 2020
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Updates: Images & Information

October 18, 2018

Diane Barsam visited the school with Paros Project Manager, Gegham Minasyan to discuss the school's needs and to formalize plans for future assistance.

August 12, 2019

With enough funding available to replace all of the exterior windows, work began on removing and replacing all of the windows.

 
September 12, 2019

Work on all of the exterior window replacement is complete and minor temporary repairs were made to the walls around the new windows until such time that funding is available for the school's interior remodel. The next effort will be to replace the school's heating system.

November 29, 2022

The school's heating system has been replaced with new radiators, pipes, and boilers throughout the entire 3 story school providing much needed heat during the winter. 

July 2, 2023

Today our crew has started renovation on the school's gym roof. 

July 15, 2023

Gym roof renovation has finished. The students now have an insulated gym roof to allow them to play comfortably. 

August 28, 2023

The multiple bathroom renovations have begun. We can't wait to give the students new and clean restrooms. 

October 22, 2023

The first bathroom renovation is finished! We will soon start construction on the next set of bathrooms. 

December 13, 2023

All 14 bathroom renovations are complete! With the support of our donors were able to renovate every bathroom at the Stepanavan St. Gregory the Illuminator School #2.  

DSC_2351-e1567727518625

Jobs for People w/Disabilities

Jobs for People with Disabilities

Description

Unison NGO for Support of People with Special Needs is a leading organization advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Armenia. With the mission to achieve full inclusion for its beneficiaries, the organization regularly designs and implements grant-funded projects and other activities aimed at improving physical accessibility and access to information, promoting PWDs’ placement in gainful employment, fostering inclusive education, enhancing coordination and cooperation between disability-oriented organizations and other initiatives aimed at improved general well-being and social, cultural and economic integration of PWDs. With 17 years of experience in the field, Unison has achieved recognition as a top advocacy organization.

Most importantly, these individuals are working in an inclusive environment, so this is not a case of sheltered employment. Currently, Unison has started a promising cooperation with a diamond-processing business whose owners are willing to employ as many as 20-25 PWDs. They are now making their facilities accessible and Unison provides advice on how to make the adaptations correctly and cost-effectively. Unison is also recruiting suitable applicants for submission to the HR department of this business. Several other initiatives are also underway. Your quick action and support will allow Unison to successfully complete this year’s project and create more opportunities for job seekers with disabilities.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

All

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

One Year
$350 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

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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MK

Mr. Sevak Kalaidjian

Canada
December 22, 2023
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CO

Client Outreach

United States July 7, 2021
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MA

Mr. Richard Alonso & Mrs. Lori Keurian Alonso

Manhasset, NY
January 8, 2020
32824913_1819621451417832_4861869993723166720_o-e1554401866982

Food, Hygiene & Medical Support for Warm Hearth

Food, Hygiene & Medical Support for Warm Hearth

Description

Warm Hearth Foundation (Jermik Ankyun) provides long-term community-based and holistic care in a small group home setting to adults with severe mental disabilities or illnesses who have graduated from special state institutions. At Warm Hearth residents have access to food, medicine, basic necessities, holistic care that they deserve, rehabilitation opportunities, love, support and safety. The hope is that they will be able to re-enter mainstream community life slowly but surely. In the course of its activities, Warm Hearth provides psycho-medical assistance to its residents, which requires daily intake of medication and psychological therapies. This support is deemed medically necessary to sustain mental and emotional stability and the physical well-being of their residents. Warm Hearth spends almost 10% of its annual operating budget on helping its residents with medical care and therapy.

Sponsorship of this project will help Warm Hearth with expenses related to food and hygiene and to help their residents receive the required psychological and medical interventions that are crucial to ensure their well-being. Due to various mental, physical and developmental disorders the residents receive psycho medical assistance to prevent further deterioration of heath related conditions. This proposed project includes the following items:

• First aid medicine
• Individually prescribed medication based on the needs of each resident
• Psychotropic medication based on a doctor’s prescription
• Individual psychological therapy with a specialized psychiatrist

Furthermore, including caregiver’s time spent in the kitchen, Warm Hearth spends $36,000/year for 30 residents (between three locations) on food and hygiene. That is about $1200/year per resident, $100/month per resident, or $25/week.

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Third Village

Start Date

January 2021

End Date

$15,925 of $45,000 raised
$
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Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need

Given the residents’ permanent disability status, they receive the majority of their medical care from the government. However, the Armenian government only provides specific medications that they have on hand (they do not provide money to purchase necessary medications). The medications that they have on hand are not always therapeutic for the residents. If a resident needs a medication or procedure outside the provisions of the Armenian government, Warm Hearth is responsible for that payment. Furthermore, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs will no longer support Warm Hearth financially for food & hygiene expenses, as a majority of their funds will be used for refugee support and post-war costs.

Short Term Impact

In the short term, residents will regularly be able to receive the medical support they need, food and hygienic supplies. Warm Hearth will better be able to meet the needs of all of its program areas through this important financial support.

Long Term Impact

The proposed project will support the health, nutrition and well being of the Warm Hearth residents so that they are capable of living a full, meaningful and pain-free life as much as possible. All the aforementioned medications and psychological therapies improve the quality life of residents and treat their respective diagnoses. The proposed project has a holistic and complex approach through providing the required main components of health care at Warm Hearth. As a result of the complex approach the health conditions and wellbeing of the residents will become manageable and improved.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this project will be listed on The Paros Foundation and the Warm Hearth websites, on the Warm Heath Facebook on a quarterly basis and in the quarterly newsletter to the international donor base, and in any press related to this important project. Visits to the home can be arranged for sponsors and their families during visits to Armenia.

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Mr. Hratch Karakachian & Dr. Marika Issakhanian

Glendale, CA October 4, 2024
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Ms. Leslie Aznoian

North Andover, MA May 25, 2022
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David Mnatsakanyan

Rancho Cordova, CA January 15, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Linda Cirell

Beverly Hills, CA December 27, 2021
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Mr. David Mnatsakanyan

Rancho Cordova, CA March 26, 2021
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Anonymous

Berkley, CA March 2, 2021
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Dadourian Foundation

New York, NY December 18, 2020
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Los Angeles, CA July 21, 2020
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Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Linda Cirella

Beverly Hills, CA June 8, 2020
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Signature Auto Leasing & Sales

Sherman Oaks, CA June 8, 2020
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Ms. Anahis Tahmasian

United States May 30, 2019
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Los Angeles, CA November 13, 2018
IMG_8348-2-e1544221159689

Abovyan School #8 Renovation-Phase One

Abovyan School #8 Renovation-Phase One

Description

The town of Abovyan in Armenia’s Kotayk region is often referred to as the northern gateway to Yerevan because of its proximity to city (about 10 miles north.) Abovyan is home to more than 34,500 residents. More than 530 children attend School #8 in Abovyan. The school is in overall poor condition. School administrators do what they can to maintain the facility, but outside assistance is needed to dramatically improve conditions throughout this school.

The school is comprised of seven building, six of which are currently being utilized. All six buildings need new roofs to prevent leakage during the wet and winter months. Most of the school’s windows need to be changed to modern, double-pane windows. The school’s boilers are 12 years old and one of them has ceased to function. The bathrooms all need to be completely renovated and transformed into modern restrooms. The large gym is also in very poor condition and needs a total remodel.

Improvements to this large school will be completed in phases. The Phase One project will include the replacement of the school’s roofing and roof support structure (as needed) over six of the buildings that are in use. Two of the buildings are in very bad condition and will be replaced immediately as soon as funding is available.

Region

Kotayk

City / Village

Abovyan

Start Date

June 2019
$77,840 of $87,000 raised
$
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Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need
The roofs over the six buildings that are currently being used at the Abovyan School #8 are leaking and beyond repair. These roofs and much of the support structure beneath must be changed to help create a safe and comfortable environment for the children while they are at school.
Short Term Impact
In the near term, a roofing crew will replace roofs over six of the facilities buildings including new corrugated roofing, gutters, downspouts and wood supporting structure as needed. This will benefit the local economy as both materials and labor will be purchased locally.
Long Term Impact
In the longer term, children will be able to learn in a cleaner, safer environment. In addition, a new roof will help better protect the children and staff and prevent further deterioration of the facility.
Sponsors Benefits
All sponsors will be listed on The Paros Foundation website, on a plaque installed at the school and in all appropriate press materials related to this project.
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Mr. & Mrs. Manoug & Narine Mouradian

Beverly Hills, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 26, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Asadour & Araksia Chilian

Beverly Hills, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 26, 2022
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Vahan Papazian & Family

Beverly Hills, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 26, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Luther & Hasmik Bedoyan

Beverly Hills, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 26, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Vrej & Anahit Karakouzian

Beverly Hills, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 26, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Nshan & Narine Karapetian

Valley Village, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 20, 2022
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Ms. Karine Arabatlian

Glendale, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 20, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. Norair & Seda Arabatlian

Glendale, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 20, 2022
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Mr. Bagdassarian Family

Glendale, CA
In Honor Of Sogomon Dordulian August 19, 2022
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Bindra Family

Chatsworth, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 19, 2022
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Brar Family

Santa Clarita, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 19, 2022
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Gevork Karapetian

Glendale, CA
In Memory Of Sogomon Dordulian August 19, 2022
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December 27, 2018

Today our construction crew did a closer inspection of the roofs at the school. Our hope is to have enough funding in place to redo at least two of the building's roofs as soon as weather permits.

 
June 3, 2019

Our construction team arrived at the school today to begin the demolition of the roof on the first building on campus! Exciting!

 
July 23, 2019

So happy to announce that our team completed the work on the roof at the first building on campus!

July 10, 2020

Work on the roof over the second classroom building at the school began today thanks to the support of several generous donors.  

August 15, 2020

Work on the second classroom building's roof was completed today! 

October 15, 2021

The school's main entrance was reroofed a several year's ago through a government supported project.  Unfortunately, it was done very poorly and aggressive wind damaged a considerable amount of roofing over the entrance.  Thankfully, through the support of generous donors, our crew began the reconstruction of the third building's roof today!

November 16, 2021

Work on the third building's roof was completed today before the weather becomes too moist!

September 4, 2022
Demolition work has begun in the school gym. Once that is completed, the entire gym will be renovated complete with paint, windows, lighting, electrical and equipment.
February 20, 2023

The gym renovations are complete! A grand opening with performances from the students was held in celebration of its completion. Continuing with school renovations, we still need funds to renovate the locker rooms and the teacher's office.

02-7-e1487353753817

Nork Orphanage-Ari’s Playground

The Nork Orphanage Play Area - Ari's Playground

Description

The Nork Orphanage houses approximately 80 infants and toddlers, from newborns to six years of age. The facility is located in the Nork area of Yerevan approximately 15 minutes from the city center. The orphanage is in need of an appropriate play area for the children that can provide them with a safe environment in which they can play and interact with one another, with staff, and with perspective adoptive parents.

A 25 x 25 meter (approximately 7,000 square feet) outdoor space is prime for the addition of a small wading pool, water feature, flower garden and seating area. This area would give the children need summer relief during the hot weather and create a very nice space for the children, the staff and perspective adoptive parents to spend time.

The scope of work in this space includes constructing a water feature (sprinkling type), a small wading pool (about 140 square feet) with filtration system, the addition of benches, flowerbeds, walkways, outdoor lighting and landscape.

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Nork Marash

Start Date

April 2012
$15,150 of $26,000 raised
$
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Donation Total: $100 One Time

The Need
Children need a safe and secure environment in which to play and interact with one another. The Nork Orphanage is generally in good repair, but lacks an outdoor space that can provide a safe play space and relief from the hot summers.
Short Term Impact
The short-term impact of this project will be the employment of a construction team to build the outdoor space and the immediate benefit for the local economy.
Long Term Impact
The long-term benefit of creating this outdoor play space will be realized through the increased happiness of the children, staff and perspective adoptive parents, who will have an environmentally friendly, safe and beautiful space to enjoy during the non-winter months. Additional benefits will be realized through the cultivation of a vegetable garden, which will provide the children fresh vegetables and will augment the orphanage’s food budget.
Sponsors Benefits
Your sponsorship of the Nork Orphanage Play Area will be recognized with a commemorative plaque installed at the Play Area, 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 and tour the Orphanage when you are in Armenia.
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Mr. Samuel Khatchadourian

Glendale, CA July 29, 2022
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Mr. & Mrs. David & Sunshine Briskie

Chula Vista, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian August 23, 2019
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Ekizian Family

Granada Hills, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian August 5, 2019
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Mr. & Mrs. Vahe & Helen Bahadrian

Sherwood Forest, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian August 4, 2019
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Mr. & Mrs. Doug & Heather Briskie

Los Angeles, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian August 1, 2019
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Mr. & Mrs. Guiragos & Annie Minassian

Chatsworth, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian July 31, 2019
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Mr. & Mrs. Dikran & Pauline Ishkhanian

North Hills, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian July 30, 2019
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Mr. Arek Momjian

Northridge, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian July 30, 2019
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Mr. & Mrs. Viken & Nathalie Fermanian

North Hills, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian July 28, 2019
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Mr. Robert Ward

Saugus, CA
In Memory Of Vasken Laurancian July 28, 2019
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Updates: Images & Information

April 5, 2012

Today we broke ground on Ari's Playground with a group of volunteers from the College Prep School in Oakland, California!

 
April 20, 2012

Work began today on the grading and work is continuing on stuccoing the block walls.

 
September 9, 2012

The Side by Side mentoring program from the Ghoghanj Children's Center in Yerevan spent the day today working to prepare the flower beds for plantings. Thank you!

 
October 9, 2012

Ari's Playground is a complete!

 
July 25, 2019

The Paros Foundation is sad to have learned of the untimely passing of Mr. Vasken Laurancian, and we extend our condolences to his family and friends. Vasken's family has decided to support the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of Ari's Playground in his memory. His funeral will be held on Friday, July 26th at 12 noon at St. Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys, California.