No products in the cart.

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: Completed

02-5-e1487284286113

Group Home For Orphans with Disabilities

Group Home For Orphans with Disabilities

Description

Warm Hearth was started to provide an alternative to the psychiatric institutions. We are the first long-term group home in Armenia and the only one to serve orphans with disabilities or mental illnesses.

“Warm Hearth is not a project; it’s a home,” says founder, “that’s sustained by the faces of our residents and the harsh fate that awaited them if something was not done.” We serve Armenian orphans with disabilities who were destined for the psychiatric institutions. We believe they deserve basic human rights and this means a loving home and a life of dignity. Our group homes are long-term and address the challenge of having a disability and being orphaned in Armenia.

We operate a safe & loving group home for thirteen residents with disabilities, which reduces instances of human rights abuses in psychiatric institutions and increases our residents’ rights through integration. Our staff provides care that encourages residents toward independence, offers rehabilitation and is holistic.

The Warm Hearth center has an immediate need for funding to provide transportation to enable their residents to able to attend vocational training.  Classes will include tailoring, jewelry making and carpet weaving. The ability to attend these vocational courses will provide the residents with theraputic benefits and the chance to acquire new skills with the hope of employment. 

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Yerevan

Start Date

January 2014

End Date

June 2014
Group Home For Orphans with Disabilities

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

The Need

Orphans with disabilities in Armenia are one of the most forgotten and vulnerable groups of people due to the stigmas associated with having a disability and the lack of resources and programs to care for them. Orphans who are over the age of 18 and have outgrown the orphanages are in even greater need due to the fact that there is no infrastructure in place to meet their needs. The only option available to these individuals is the former Soviet psychiatric institutions that do not focus on rehabilitation or holistic care.

Short Term Impact

The project provides a home-life for 13 residents, allowing them to live outside institutions. It’s a model for community-based care and a pilot project for moving away from institutionalization. In the short term, funds from this project will allow for residents to be transported into community settings.

Long Term Impact

The longer term impact of this project will be the expanded capacity at which Warm Hearth operates that will benefit future residents, allowing them to continue living in this family environment as their physical and/or developmental conditions change. This group home model will continue to serve as a example of non-institutional living for people with disabilities.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors will be listed both on the Warm Hearth and Paros Foundation websites. Visits to the Warm Hearth group home will be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

Anonymous User
KF

Kassarjian Family

Armenia March 14, 2014
Anonymous User
MM

Mr. & Mrs. Varujan & Tatiana Mardirosian

San Rafael, CA March 14, 2014
Anonymous User
CC

Catherine & Lauren Conrow

Ross, CA December 30, 2013

Updates: Images & Information

April 9, 2014

Residents are now taken on regular trips to both historic sites and other public venues.

unnamed-8-e1486506289322

Adopt a Restroom, Yerevan School #154

Adopt a Restroom, Yerevan School #154

Description

Representatives of The Paros Foundation have visited more than 100 schools throughout Armenia. While some schools have either been renovated thanks to the Armenian government or as a result of the generosity of international donors, many remain in deplorable conditions and have little hope of being renovated in the near future. These conditions affect both the ability for students to learn, as well as the health of students and teachers.

The Paros Foundation will directly oversee the renovation six identical two stall bathrooms including addressing such elements as windows, doors, flooring, lighting, paint, sinks, faucet and toilet. Whenever possible, the school staff, students and their parents will be incorporated into the classroom remodel project to help build a sense of community and personal investment.

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Yerevan

Start Date

November 2015

End Date

January 2016
Adopt a Restroom, Yerevan School #154

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

The Need
Students need a dignified and clean restroom to use while attending school. Currently, many students have no option other than to use unsanitary restroom facilities, or, even worse, avoid using the restroom at all until they reach a more appropriate venue, which can lead to health issues in later life.
Short Term Impact
The reconstruction of these new bathrooms will employ a contractor and support the local economy through the purchase of necessary building materials and fixtures.
Long Term Impact
Hundreds of children will benefit from modern and dignified bathrooms to use while attending school.
Sponsors Benefits
Donors will be recognized with a plaque installed at the school and on the Paros Foundation Website.
Anonymous User
DA

Developmental Service for Armenia

Arcadia, CA January 15, 2016
Anonymous User
DA

Developmental Service for Armenia

Arcadia, CA November 18, 2015

Updates: Images & Information

January 26, 2016

The restroom renovations have been completed at the Yerevan School #154 including new windows, doors, flooring, lighting, paint, two sinks & faucets and two toilets installed in each of the six renovated restrooms.

Screen-Shot-2016-11-22-at-12.50.16-PM

Kanakeravan Art School Bathroom

Kanakeravan Art School, Bathroom

Description

The Kanakeravan Fine Arts School is located in the village of Kanakeravan 30 minutes outside of Yerevan and serves both this village and a neighboring village. The School provides afterschool program in several of the fine arts including music, dance, pottery, painting and needle work to more than 125 children annually. The School has a committed staff and principal that ensure that their personal passion for the arts is upheld and taught to these children. The School receives support from the local government for administrative expenses and the students pay a modest monthly fee. This support and fees are not enough to allow the School to renovate this bathroom.

Watch Video

Region

Kotayk

City / Village

Kanakeravan

Start Date

April, 2012

End Date

May, 2012
Kanakeravan Art School Bathroom

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

The Need
Armenia’s villages and its children suffer from lack of facilities for children. The promotion of a child’s education and preservation of our rich culture depend on quality educational institutions. The Kanakeravan Fine Arts School can meet these needs with a modest amount of support.
Short Term Impact
The reconstruction of a new bathroom will employ a contractor and support the local economy through the purchase of necessary building materials and fixtures.
Long Term Impact
125 children will benefit from a modern, dignified bathroom to use while attending the afterschool programs at the Karakeravan Fine Arts School.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to remodel the Kanakeravan Art School Bathroom will be recognized with a plaque at the entrance to the Center and your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the Kanaderavan Art School when you are in Armenia.
Anonymous User
MM

Mr. Shahen Hairapetian & Mrs. Arax Mansourian

San Marino, CA March 13, 2012
Anonymous User
MK

Mr. & Mrs. Adam & Rita Kablanian

Los Altos Hills, CA March 12, 2012
02-53-e1486760065592

Getashen Kindergarten Creation

Getashen Kindergarten Creation

Description

The village of Getashen is a town in the Armavir Province of Armenia, a few hundred meters away from the Turkish border. This village of 2,300 people currently houses one village school with 280 kids in attendance, but does not have an operating kindergarten for its younger children.
Recently the principal of the school has identified the important need for a kindergarten and is committed to put in great efforts to create one. He has made space available which will need to be renovated and turned into the village kindergarten. In addition, he will exhaust all efforts to contribute part of the labor and materials needed to complete this project. Sponsorship of this project will help raise the remaining amount needed in order to complete renovations. The renovations will include new doors and windows, electrical, window blinds, new flooring and new paint. The creation of a functioning kindergarten in the village of Getashen will provide local children a safe and comfortable environment in which to learn. Presently there are 25 younger children that will be able to attend.

Region

Armavir

City / Village

Getashen

Start Date

June 2015

End Date

August 2015
Getashen Kindergarten Creation

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

The Need
Studies show that attending kindergarten is important to students’ success in higher education, as well as for their future success. Creating a kindergarten for the village of Getashen will give 25 young children the opportunity to attend and provide them with safe and warm environment in which to begin their education.
Short Term Impact
The short-term impact of this project will be to renovate two classrooms in the Getashen School to be used as a kindergarten for 25 children. Jobs will be created for additional staff and teachers. All materials will be purchased in Armenia, thus providing a boost to the local economy. In addition, local villagers will be hired to complete the construction work, thus providing them with temporary jobs.
Long Term Impact
In the long term, the success of this project will provide a proper facility for current and future young children in the village of Getashen to attend and start their educational journeys. Furthermore, the creation of the kindergarten will help create and maintain employment opportunities for the villagers.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to sponsor the kindergarten creation in the village of Getashen will be recognized on a plaque in the Kindergarten, on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the kindergarten in the village of Getashen when you are in Armenia.
Anonymous User
MM

Mr. & Mrs. Steve & Dzovig Moses

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
In Memory Of Araxi Moses Semerdjian November 11, 2015
Anonymous User
MB

Mr. Arsene Baran

Granada Hills, CA
In Memory Of Araxi Moses Semerdjian September 15, 2015
Anonymous User
MZ

Mr. Gerard Zeitounian

Glendale, CA
In Memory Of Araxi Moses Semerdjian September 13, 2015
Anonymous User
MT

Ms. Anahid Terjimanian

Montebello, CA
In Memory Of Araxi Moses Semerdjian September 13, 2015
Anonymous User
CC

Catherine & Lauren Conrow

Ross, CA March 24, 2015
Anonymous User
MA

Mr. & Mrs. Mark & Charlene Asdourian

Newport Coast, CA September 14, 2014
Anonymous User
MM

Ms. Ani Moses

Ranchos Palos Verdes, CA
In Memory Of Lucine Ghazarian/Tekelian September 13, 2014
Anonymous User
MB

Mr. & Mrs. Ryan & Mari Brandt

Santa Cruz, CA September 12, 2014
Anonymous User
MM

Mr. & Mrs. Steve & Dzovig Moses

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
In Memory Of Lucine Ghazarian/Tekelian September 8, 2014
Anonymous User
MI

Mr. & Mrs. Vahe & Peggy Ishkhanian

Northridge, CA
In Memory Of Lucine Ghazarian/Tekelian August 25, 2014
Anonymous User
MT

Mr. & Mrs. Hagop Terzian

Torrance, CA
In Memory Of Lucine Ghazarian/Tekelian August 11, 2014
Anonymous User
MD

Mr. & Mrs. Jay & Salpi Dangourian

Santa Monica, CA
In Memory Of Lucine Ghazarian/Tekelian August 10, 2014
View More Sponsors

Updates: Images & Information

June 25, 2015

As their contribution the Getashen Village School offered to help with some necessary demolish of the two rooms that will be rebuilt into their kindergarten. In addition, they will also build a separate entryway directly into the new kindergarten space.

 
June 29, 2015

Village residents hired to work on the kindergarten have begun construction work. New doors and windows have been installed and both rooms are ready for the SERVICE Armenia 2015 participants to arrive and work on the kindergarten.

 
July 21, 2015

SERVICE Armenia 2015 participants spent several of their work days working on the kindergarten. They helped prepare and paint the walls and installed the laminate flooring.

 
August 8, 2015

The construction of the Getashen Kindergarten is complete. The school will also provide new furniture for the children.

15232320_537187349823691_5831704809469593499_n-e1487026667866

Debi Arach Children’s Center- Gyumri

Debi Arach Children's Center- Gyumri

Description

The residents of Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city have endured very devastating realities. The tragic 1988 Spitak Earthquake claimed the lives of 25,000 people and left more than 100,000 residents homeless, and plagued with unemployment and rampant poverty for years to come. In turn, the fate of children in Gyurmi 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 and the financial resources for them to excel in school and have a successful future. Families struggling with these extreme conditions must often place their children in one of several orphanages to try to have their daily needs met.

The Debi Arach Children’s Center, which in Armenian means “moving forward,” will help these socially vulnerable children by providing them with the support and guidance they need to succeed in life. Through sponsorship of this important project The Paros Foundation, will establish a children’s center providing the necessary academic, psychological, social and humanitarian support to ensure that the children mature to well adjusted, successful, young adults.

The new center will provide 100 students with opportunities to receive counseling, homework help and tutoring along with English, Math, Art/Design, and Computer classes. Additionally, a well-balanced and nutritious meal will be provided daily. The Center, which will be open six days a week, will be able to serve two groups of 50 students for three days each per week.

In order to address another very important need for children in Gyumri, supervised bathing facilities will be available for the children’s use. Each child attending the center will be able to use the showers twice a week should they desire. Strict supervision will be assigned in order to ensure the privacy and safety of the children.

Furthermore, the municipality of Gyumri has agreed to partner with us on this important project and provide us with long term and rent-free space to house this new program. The current program budget reflects only the one-time startup and annual operational costs.

Watch Video

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

April 2015

End Date

March 2016
Debi Arach Children’s Center- Gyumri

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

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 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 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 have 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 providing the children in attendance with supervised new bathing facilities.
Short Term Impact
The short-term 100 children will receive immediate support and gudacne to help them succeed. The new Center will offer nutritious meals, counseling opportunities, homework aid and tutoring and core classes including English, Computer, Art/Design, and Math. Additionally, new bathing facilities will be constructed and ready for use by the children. An entire staff of 11 individuals including an administrative staff and instructors will be immediately employed to help instruct and oversee these courses. Additional employment opportunities will be created for the residents of Gyurmri for both the start-up and operational phases of the program.
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. This project has the potential of 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. Through the ongoing employment opportunities created, several families will receive a fair wage.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to sponsor the establishment 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.
Anonymous User
MN

Mr. & Mrs. Ara & Nayad Nersesyan

Simi Valley, CA December 14, 2015
Anonymous User
TT

Teza Technologies

Chicago, IL
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday November 30, 2015
Anonymous User
OI

Ozcan Jewelers, Inc.

Boston, MA November 29, 2015
Anonymous User
MO

Mrs. Shake Ovasapyan

CA, United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday August 20, 2015
Anonymous User
MD

Mr. Hovannes Dermenchyan

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday August 18, 2015
Anonymous User
MA

Ms. Silva Atalaryan

Granada Hills, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday August 14, 2015
Anonymous User
MA

Ms. Zoe Armas

CA, United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday August 7, 2015
Anonymous User
MP

Mr. Michael Petran

Huntington Beach, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday August 7, 2015
Anonymous User
MO

Ms. Ellen Oganesyan

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday July 31, 2015
Anonymous User
MD

Mr. & Mrs. Steven & Laura Derderian

Westwood, MA July 13, 2015
Anonymous User
MI

Ms. Nazanin Izadpanah

Redding, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday July 13, 2015
Anonymous User
ML

Ms. Nancy Loos

Moorpark, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday July 6, 2015
Anonymous User
MB

Ms. Haleh Bafekr

United States
In Honor Of Anna 's Birthday July 6, 2015
Anonymous User
MG

Mr. Diana Soriano Gomez

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday July 4, 2015
Anonymous User
MB

Ms. Suzette Cardin Barden

Redondo Beach, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday July 2, 2015
Anonymous User
MC

Ms. Shelly Cote

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 29, 2015
Anonymous User
MN

Ms. Sarah Neyssani

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 28, 2015
Anonymous User
MH

Mrs. Perouz Harutyunian, Benjamin Haroutyunian, Freedom Haroutyunian, & Elizabeth Haroutyunian

United States
In Memory Of Harutyun Harutyunian June 27, 2015
Anonymous User
MA

Ms. Nasim Afsarmanesh

Pacific Palisades, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 27, 2015
Anonymous User
ML

Ms. Suh-Yung Lee

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 25, 2015
Anonymous User
MN

Ms. Maria Kristina Ngo

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 25, 2015
Anonymous User
MG

Ms. Jean Gima

Culver City, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 25, 2015
Anonymous User
MS

Ms. Armine Shishikyan

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 25, 2015
Anonymous User
MA

Ms. Silva Arzunyan

North Hills, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 22, 2015
Anonymous User
MC

Ms. Nektar Chamchyan

Sherman Oaks, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 22, 2015
Anonymous User
MM

Ms. Taline Marcarian

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 20, 2015
Anonymous User
MG

Ms. Nune Grigorian

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 20, 2015
Anonymous User
ML

Mr. Tianne Larson

Orange, CA
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 19, 2015
Anonymous User
MM

Ms. Naira Martirosyan

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 19, 2015
Anonymous User
MS

Mr. Luis Sandoval

United States
In Honor Of Anna Dermenchyan's Birthday June 19, 2015
View More Sponsors

Updates: Images & Information

Video Update

July 15, 2020

A video shows the protests in Baku calling on a resumption of war with Armenia.

July 16, 2020

The kindergarten in the village of Aygepar was hit by Azeri artillery this morning. We had finished the complete renovation of this kindergarten in 2018 and will assess the damage and rebuild again as soon as possible! We build, they destroy!

 
July 21, 2020

Members of The Paros Foundation team joined Tavush Governor Hayk Chobanyan, Berd Consolidated Communities head Harutyun Manucharyan, representatives of the Prime Minister's office, and local village representatives to visit the Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur, Aygepar and Chinari communities to assess the damage and to strategize and coordinate the next steps forward.

11034387_348400265363924_3304530313331845667_o-e1487629533654

Ghoghanj Nor Nork 2016-17 Funding

Ghoghanj Nor Nork - 2016-2017 Funding

Description

The Ghoghanj Children’s Center located in the Kentron of Yerevan provides afterschool and summer school programs for approximately 75 children every month. Children who attend the Center are loosely defined as “at risk.” These children typically come from very poor households, often times with a single head of household, who cannot pay for such assistance. The goal of the Ghoghanj Children’s Center is to provide the necessary academic, psychological and social support to ensure that the children attending mature to well adjusted, successful, young adults.

In order to further impact more “at-risk” children, the Center has identified a need for this model to be replicated and offered to other communities in Armenia. Through the generous support of the Dadourian Foundation, a second center for “at-risk” children was opened in the Nor Nork neighborhood of Yerevan to provide support to 75 additional children annually. The new center provides students the same core classes (English, Russian, Computer, Design, Painting, Theater and Dance) as the Ghoghanj Children’s Center – Kentron. The goal of this project is to broaden the services offered to socially vulnerable children and families in other communities and provide them with the proper support and guidance needed to excel in school and become self-confident and respectful young adults.

Currently, The Paros Foundation is looking for donors who will help keep this important Center running in the 2016-2017 school year. Amount will include rent, utilities, teacher salaries, maintenance and additional improvements, and supplies.

Region

Yerevan

City / Village

Nor Nork

Start Date

September 2016

End Date

August 2017
Ghoghanj Nor Nork 2017-2018 Funding

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

The Need

Children living in the community of Nor Nork in Yerevan are in need of additional guidance through social, psychological and academic support. A second Center for these kids has been opened and will need additional financial assistance in order to cover operational costs for the following school year (2016-2017).

Short Term Impact

In the short term, sponsorship of this project will help continue to employ teachers, and provide 75 children in the Nor Nork neighborhood of Yerevan with their needed tutoring and guidance.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, this project has the potential of impacting the lives of 75-100 at-risk students by helping them gain the guidance and support they need in order to create greater future opportunities, and become successful individuals and good citizens.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to fund the operational costs for the 2016-2017 school year for Ghoghanj-Nor Nork 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 happily arrange a visit to the new Center when you are in Armenia.

Anonymous User
DF

Dadourian Foundation

New York, NY November 23, 2015

Updates: Images & Information

September 5, 2016

Ghoghanj is back in session for the new school year. Excursions to different educational and cultural attractions are a regular part of the enrichment programs at Ghoghanj.

December 16, 2016

Ghoghanj Nork Nork had a big Christmas celebration and recital at the center. All the children participated and had an amazing time.

 
January 18, 2017

Visited Diana Grigoryan, Executive Director of the Ghoghanj Children's Center today. She reports that almost 100 students are attending classes at the center!

t-shirt-6-e1487368070517

Share-a-Pair

Share-a-Pair

Description

Share-A-Pair, a project to get shoes to Armenia’s children, needs your help!
Launched in the Los Angeles area by Kristen and Bridget Abajian, and Sophia Dilsizian, this effort’s goal is to provide 1,000 quality pairs of shoes to Armenia’s needy children.

“When we lived in Armenia, and in later visits, we saw the difficult conditions orphan and extremely poor children live in. We decided to dedicate our time and effort to helping Armenia’s children by trying to fill the important need for shoes. While having one extra pair of shoes for us here in the U.S. doesn’t mean much, a pair of new shoes for an orphan or a very poor child in Armenia is very valued. Please consider helping us help these children.” Said Kristen Abajian in her fundraising appeal.

The goal of raising $10,000, which will provide more than 1,000 quality shoes for children, will hopefully be reached with the help of friends and supporters around the country. We hope to reach the goal and deliver the first batch of shoes to both children in the orphanages and other children in need in the summer of 2011.

Share-a-pair is able to purchase one quality pair of shoes for $10. Donations are welcomed in any amount. 100% of the proceeds will be spent buying new shoes and putting them on the feet of children in need. Donations of new practical shoes in all sizes are also appreciated and welcomed. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions and be sure to visit us on facebook. Thank you!

Region

All

City / Village

All

Start Date

2011

End Date

2012
$5,496 of $35,000 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
Armenia is a developing country that is struggling economically. More than 1,200 Orphans live in 15 orphanages throughout Armenia. While these facilities provide for the children’s basic needs, they cannot keep up with the ongoing needs for shoes for all the children. In addition, several orphanages house children with disabilities, who walk with difficulty and wear through shoes very quickly. Families in need find it extremely difficult to provide their children with basic necessities such as shoes for school and warm winter shoes.
Short Term Impact
Share-a-pair will positively impact 1,000 children by providing them with a pair of shoes or warm winter boots.
Long Term Impact
Because some shoes will be purchased in Armenia, the local economy will also benefit through the infusion of capital.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to share-a-pair will be recognized on their webpage and in appropriate printed materials, and your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to a shoe distribution location site when you are in Armenia.
Anonymous User
TS

Anonymous

Los Angeles, CA December 19, 2012
Anonymous User
DA

Dr. & Mrs. Francois & Suzy Antounian

San Francisco, CA June 1, 2012
Anonymous User
LF

Laskowski Family

Grosse Ile, MI May 7, 2012
Anonymous User
MB

Mrs. Virginia Behler

United States April 29, 2012
Anonymous User
MK

Mr. & Mrs. Bob & Rose Kizirian

Redondo Beach, CA December 1, 2011
Anonymous User
MK

Mr. & Mrs. Arthur & Helen Kashian

Brookfield, WI November 9, 2011
Anonymous User
MJ

Ms. Laura Jacobson

Rochester Hills, MI September 30, 2011
Anonymous User
MO

Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Gail O'Reilly

Winchester, MA September 28, 2011
Anonymous User
MH

Mr. & Mrs. Garbis & Victoria Hagobian

Manhasset, NY September 27, 2011
Anonymous User
MN

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth & Cynthia Norian

Beverly Hills, CA September 26, 2011
Anonymous User
MK

Mr. & Mrs. Matthew & Maria Kroha

Ranchos Palos Verdes, CA September 23, 2011
Anonymous User
MK

Mrs. Arsineh Kizirian

Redondo Beach, CA September 20, 2011
View More Sponsors

Updates: Images & Information

Video Update

December 25, 2010

The Share-a-Pair project is officially launched. Co-Founders, Bridget and Kristen Abajian and their friend, Sofia Dilsizian begin raising needed funds from their families and friends.

 
June 15, 2011

Share-a-Pairs founders and volunteers begin distributing more than 500 pairs of shoes to Armenia's orphanages in Vanadzor, Gavar and Nork. Upon their return to the US, the founders entered into a three year partnership with TOMs Shoes to supply shoes to Armenia.

 
March 30, 2012

25,000 pairs of new TOMs Shoes arrived into Armenia today and are ready for distribution!

 
June 4, 2012

Volunteers arrive into Armenia and join the Paros Staff to begin distributions of TOMs Shoes throughout needy communities in Armenia.

 
November 21, 2012

25,000 pairs of shoes were successfully distributed to 11 orphanages, 8 boarding schools, 12 organizations and more than 14 town and more than 100 villages throughout Armenia.

DSCN0263

Kharpert Home for Special Children Excursion 2

Kharpert Home for Special Children Excursion 2

Description

The Kharpert Home for Special Children is an orphanage located in the village of Nor Kharpert serving more than 250 children with varying degrees of developmental disabilities. The orphanage is a state run facility that receives governmental support to provide these vulnerable children with their basic care and education.

Excursions for these children to amusement parks and/or other appropriate venues provide these children with both valuable community experience and needed recreation. Children with disabilities in Armenia are generally kept sheltered from society. These children do not attend school, but rather attend classes at the orphanage. It is important for both these children and society for these children to experience community life.

For each donation of $250, approximately 20 children and an appropriate number of care provides will be able to go on an excursion to Yerevan at Victory Park, or another appropriate venue for a morning or afternoon of activities including transportation, admission and snacks. Please consider supporting multiple excursions for these children.

Watch Video

Region

Ararat

City / Village

Nor Kharpert

Start Date

February 2011

End Date

February 2011
Kharpert Home for Special Children Excursion 2

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

The Need
Approximately 1,200 children live in Armenia’s 15 orphanages. While these facilities provide basic care for these children, their limited funding does not permit these children regular visits and participate in various social and cultural activities. A child with a disability has very few opportunities to visit the city and experience life outside of the grounds of the Kharpert orphanage.
Short Term Impact
The short-term impact of this project will be the employment of a bus driver, money being spent in Armenia’s local economy and most important the education and social benefits for 20 children with developmental disabilities.
Long Term Impact
This project has considerable long-term benefits for both the children and for society. Society’s attitudes towards people with disabilities will slowly begin to change as witness these children regularly and realize that society can indeed accommodate them as part of their community.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to the Kharpert Home for Special Children will be recognized at the Center and 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 Kharpert Home for Special Children when you are in Armenia.
Anonymous User
S"

Swedish Armenian Association "Shirak"

Sweden July 21, 2011

Updates: Images & Information

Video Update

February 1, 2011

Representatives of the Swedish Armenian Association "Shirak" joined Paros Foundation staff for the implementation of the excursion at Victory Park they sponsored.

IMG_9904-e1488407563580

Our Soldiers, Our Heros

Our Soldiers, Our Heros

Description

An efficient army is the guarantee of preservation of independence of the national state. In 1992–1993 the army was created through unification of the army conscripts with the Voluntary squads. In 1992, January 28th, the government adopted the historical decision on “Ministry of Defense of RA”. That very document signaled the beginning of creation of national army. The army was gradually supplied with contemporary military equipment and became a strong pillar in the matter of preservation of independence. The Armenian Army was formed in the process of restoration of state independence and served as its biggest achievement. This year our victorious army celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The recent murders of soldiers, cases of violence and illegal activities that took place in the army had a serious impact on the army’s reputation. Nowadays the army’s topic is covered in two cases: during official visits and during very ‘loud’ events in the army. There are almost no human stories where the image of an Armenian soldier would have been visible, the image of a common Armenian brave guy that protects his motherland on the frontlines day and night. It is through these kinds of publications that the society will reevaluate its own strengths and will believe in its own offspring, its own army and its own future.

«Hetq» had already attempted to try to present the real facet of the army through photos and articles. That initiative has received a lot of positive feedback. However, due to high costs and lack of resources it was not possible to provide its continuity.

To promote the creation of the image of the Hero of our Days – the Armenian soldier, the hero of the army should be presented right from the very frontline positions. The soldiers there are different, they are calmer and more mature. On the frontline the positions of the adversary cannot escape you for a minute. It is not written or spoken about these kinds of guys, and they are not of those who blabber. A series of articles, expressive photos and a film right from the frontline will be prepared in the framework of this project. This will contribute to alteration of preconceived attitude towards the Armenian army.

UDDATE: Hetq.am posted its first photo essay today. The link can be found here: Paros Sponsored Hetq.am Project

Region

All

City / Village

All

Start Date

February 2016

End Date

June 2016
Our Soldiers, Our Heros

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

The Need
The project will contribute to solution of a serious issue: the Armenian soldier will be perceived as a hero of today, the role of the army will be reevaluated, and it will also oblige the whole officers’ staff to be more watchful, to prevent illegal activities and violence in the army. In a result of the project 2 series of articles, 4 series of photos and one film will be prepared. This initiative will develop a unique tradition of coverage of the army in mass media.
Short Term Impact
This initiative will develop a unique tradition of coverage of the army in mass media. In a bigger picture, the beneficiaries of the project are the soldiers of the Republic of Armenia, officers’ staff, the whole Armenian society. The main beneficiaries are the readers of «Hetq», as well as Social networks/Facebook, Twitter users where the articles of «Hetq» are spread. The number of the readers of «Hetq» reaches 100,000 on a monthly basis.
Long Term Impact
It is hoped that through this project in the long term, the lives of the Armenian Soldier will improve and be valued at a greater level in society.
Sponsors Benefits
Sponsors will be recognized as a part of each article, photo spread and on each film in this series. In addition, donors will be recognized on all relevant press regarding this project and on the Paros 100 website.
Anonymous User
MC

Mr. & Mrs. William & Laura Conrow

Ross, CA March 24, 2015

Updates: Images & Information

Video Update

April 12, 2016

Photo essays throughout the month of April and May and a video completed this project. Visit www.hetq.am and view their archives for more photos.

DSCN0232

Adopt A Classroom 13 – Hatsik

Adopt A Classroom 13 - Hatsik

Description

Representatives of The Paros Foundation have visited more than 100 schools throughout Armenia. While some schools have either been renovated thanks to the Armenian government or as a result of the generosity of international donors, many remain in deplorable conditions and have little hope of being renovated in the near future. These conditions affect both the ability for students to learn, as well as the health of students and teachers. How is a student supposed to learn if there are not proper desks, chairs or windows in the classroom?

The Paros Foundation will directly oversee the renovation of a classroom including addressing such elements as windows, doors, flooring, lighting, paint, chalk or white board and desks and chairs. Whenever possible, the school, students and their parents will be incorporated into the classroom remodel project to help build a sense of community and personal investment.

Hatsik is a village in the Armavir Province of Armenia. This village of 2,558 people currently houses one school with 285 students in attendance. Renovations at the Hatsik Village School began with the Paros Foundation’s SERVICE Armenia 2013 group.

Watch Video

Region

Armavir

City / Village

Hatsik

Start Date

June 2015

End Date

August 2015
Adopt A Classroom 13 – Hatsik

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

The Need
Many classrooms throughout Armenia’s schools remain in deplorable conditions. Children should not have to try and learn in these conditions. Because of substandard doors and windows, many classrooms become unusable in the winter months because of the cold. In addition, even schools with proper heating are affected negatively with insufficient warmth in the classrooms that have broken doors and windows. While the Armenian Government and others regularly engage in a campaign to remodel schools, they simply cannot meet the huge need.
Short Term Impact
The short-term impact will be the employment of at least two people to renovate the classroom for one month and the benefit to the local economy through the order for needed supplies and classroom furniture.
Long Term Impact
The long-term impact will benefit at least 10 years of students that will be able to take classes using the updated and modern classroom. This will have a huge psychological impact on both the students and teacher. In addition, the school will benefit from energy savings in the winter months.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to sponsor the renovation of this classroom will be recognized on a plaque at the school, on The Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the Hatsik Village School when you are in Armenia.
Anonymous User
TF

The Dan and Jacqueline Lion Family

Fresno, CA December 31, 2015

Updates: Images & Information

June 22, 2015

A local construction crew has begun. They have started with the demolition of the final two classrooms, the staircase and the remaining hallways at the Hatsik Village School.

 
June 25, 2015

The local crew has started installing new doors and windows and will continue to work on the electrical as well as plastering the walls and ceiling.

 
July 2, 2015

The SERVICE Armenia 2015 group has arrived and will be working on these two classrooms, stairs and remaining hallways for several of their service work days. Along with this, the group will be helping to renovate the gym (See Hatsik School Gym project)

 
July 8, 2015

The SERVICE Armenia 2015 group helped sand and paint the walls. The remaining final touch ups will be completed by the local construction crew.

 
August 18, 2015

Work on the final two classrooms, the staircase and the remaining hallways is done and the classrooms are ready for students in September.