Andre’s Humanitarian Support for Debi Arach

Description

As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, participants are raising funds for a Paros project they are passionate about. Andre has chosen to support the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri for humanitarian aid. The Center serves children from vulnerable families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

Through this effort, Andre will raise funds that will directly support the children’s essential needs and overall well-being. Your support will make a meaningful difference in their lives and help create a brighter future.

A message from Andre:

I have the amazing opportunity to travel to Armenia on a service trip through The Paros Foundation this summer. I am excited to connect more deeply with my heritage while helping communities in need! Being Armenian has always had a big impact on my life because I love the cuisine, the dancing, the people, and almost everything about Armenian culture.

What makes this trip to Armenia so special to me is that it will be my first time leaving America, while also connecting with my homeland. The past few summers I have been going to an Armenian summer camp, which further strengthened my love of the culture, making me want to go to Armenia so much more! In addition to learning more about my culture and meeting other students my age, I look forward to making meaningful contributions through various service projects.

Since I am so eager and passionate to help those in need, I have chosen to raise money for humanitarian work. This program is one way for me to make a lasting impact, so I won’t hesitate to help provide this aid to families and children. I have had the privilege of growing up with basic necessities, and understanding that has led me to see the significance of assisting others whose situation may not be the same as mine. This fundraiser supports children at the Debi (Tebi) Arach Children’s Center by supplying groceries, clothing, and other necessities. Your generous donations will enable me to hand deliver important necessities to families in Armenia.

Thanks for your consideration to contribute and support the cause of this fundraiser and my volunteer service in Armenia. Any donation, big or small, will go a long way in helping me reach my fundraising goals.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

June 2026

End Date

August 2026

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July 9, 2026

This summer, Andre traveled to Armenia with SERVICE Armenia and had the opportunity to spend several days at the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri. During his visits, he spent time getting to know the children, participating in activities with them, and helping distribute new shoes. His time at Debi Arach allowed him to connect with the children he is supporting through his fundraising efforts and see the impact of the Center’s work firsthand.

Nico’s Drive for Youth Athletics

Description

As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, participants are raising funds for a project they are passionate about. Nico has chosen to support the Sporting Goods for Village Schools project, which provides much-needed sports equipment to schools in rural communities throughout Armenia.
Many village schools have limited resources and lack access to basic sporting goods that encourage physical activity, teamwork, and healthy development. Through this fundraising effort, Nico will help provide equipment that allows students to participate in sports, stay active, and enjoy opportunities that many children often take for granted.

Your support will help bring new equipment and new opportunities to students in Armenia’s village schools, making a meaningful impact on their health, confidence, and overall well-being.

A message from Nico:

This summer, I have the opportunity to travel to Armenia and participate in the 2026 SERVICE Armenia trip with The Paros Foundation, where I will tour the land of my ancestors while also providing service to families and people in need.

This opportunity is especially meaningful to me because I’ve always been proud to be a 5th-generation Armenian. In my life, it has been extremely important to participate in as many activities as possible that help strengthen this identity. I enjoy attending Armenian festivals, dances, summer camps, and church. By doing this, I have been able to educate myself on different parts of my culture, such as religion, food, history, and music. One thing I’ve found in common in all these activities is the emphasis on remembering and understanding my Armenian roots, while also showing the perseverance of our ancestors. Because of this, I feel strongly drawn to being part of something that allows me to connect more deeply with my heritage and experience Armenia and its history firsthand.

During this time, I chose to directly support efforts to provide new sports equipment to schools in need. As a kid, I’ve always valued playing sports. I grew up in the Los Angeles area and was fortunate enough to have access to clean and functional equipment. This charity broadened my perspective and helped me realize that not all kids around the world are as fortunate as I am. Through The Paros Foundation, I will have the amazing experience to personally deliver this equipment to children and schools, helping make the impact of this charity immediate and meaningful.

My goal is to raise $2,000, and any contribution, no matter the size, will have a significant influence on the youth of Armenia. I am deeply grateful for any support, whether that is a donation or simply sharing my page with others.

Region

All

City / Village

All

Start Date

June 2026

End Date

August 2026

Gallery Images

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July 9, 2026

This summer, Nico traveled to Armenia with SERVICE Armenia and had the opportunity to spend time in several of Armenia’s villages and communities. Throughout the trip, he connected with children in children’s center and schools and saw firsthand the importance of creating opportunities for students to stay active and engaged. Once the funds are raised, The Paros Foundation will identify a village school where the new sporting equipment can have the greatest impact.

Sevana’s Efforts for Debi Arach

Description

As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, participants are raising funds for a Paros project they are passionate about. Sevana has chosen to support the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri. The Center serves children from vulnerable families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

Through this effort, Sevana will raise funds that will directly support the children’s essential needs and overall well-being. Your support will make a meaningful difference in their lives and help create a brighter future.

A message from Sevana:

This summer, I have the privilege of participating in a three week service initiative in Armenia through The Paros Foundation. There I will work alongside students from across the globe on community focused projects. One opportunity I am especially excited about is supporting Debi Arach, an organization dedicated to providing children with essential resources including a nutritious meal. As someone who has been fortunate to have access to these resources, I am grateful for the chance to help children who may not have the same opportunities. My goal is to raise $3,000 for the Debi Arach initiative. With the support of both the Armenian community and my own efforts, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these students.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

June 2026

End Date

August 2026

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July 9, 2026

This summer, Sevana traveled to Armenia with SERVICE Armenia and had the opportunity to visit the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri. During her visit, she spent time with the children and experienced firsthand the lunch program she is supporting through this project. Talia was able to see how the meals are prepared, enjoy lunch alongside the children, and see the impact these nutritious, homemade meals have on their daily lives.

Vardenis Community Basketball Court

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Description

Vardenis is a village located in the Gegharkunik region of Armenia, in one of the more remote parts of the country. The town and its surrounding villages are home to hundreds of children and adolescents who currently lack adequate space for organized sports and physical activity.

The Vardenis Community Basketball Court Initiative aims to construct an outdoor basketball court at the local sports school, providing boys and girls from Vardenis and neighboring villages with access to organized sports, intramural competitions, and programs that promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle. The court will serve as a gathering point for the broader community, bringing together families, schools, and coaches around a shared commitment to youth development and wellness.

Our goal is to provide hundreds of children with a safe space to stay active, build lasting friendships, and participate in organized sports. The project budget is $38,000, which will cover the construction, repaving, fencing, and lighting of the outdoor basketball court.

Region

Gegharkunik

City / Village

Vardenis and Surrounding Villages

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Gallery Images

The Need

Children and youth in Vardenis and its surrounding villages lack access to adequate recreational facilities and organized sports. Opportunities to participate in structured sports programs are scarce, leaving many without access to regular physical activity, teamwork, and community engagement. A dedicated outdoor basketball court will provide a space for boys and girls to stay active, build skills, and participate in organized sports.

Short Term Impact

In the short term, the outdoor basketball court will be constructed and renovated to create a safe and functional space for sports and recreation. The local economy will also benefit, as materials and labor will be sourced locally whenever possible.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, hundreds of children from Vardenis and its surrounding villages will have access to a quality outdoor basketball court where they can participate in organized sports, intramural competitions, and group activities. The court will promote fitness, healthy lifestyles, and lasting friendships, serving the youth of the region for many years to come.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be recognized on a plaque installed at the outdoor basketball court, listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project.

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Supplies for Success

Description

This July Sabrina will be going to Armenia for 3 weeks with The Paros Foundation. She will be part of various service projects, including helping renovate village school classrooms and distributing humanitarian and educational supplies in rural communities.

As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, Sabrina will be raising funds for a Paros project that she is passionate about. Sabrina has chosen to support the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri for humanitarian aid. The Center serves children from vulnerable families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

Through this program Sabrina will raise funds that will directly support the children’s essential needs and overall well-being. She will personally deliver backpacks, school supplies, winter coats, boots, shoes and groceries and share her journey with everyone.

A message from Sabrina:

As a first-year college student, I have seen firsthand the impact that access to school supplies, food security, and basic necessities can have on a student’s success. Debi Arach’s humanitarian aid program focuses on providing resources that will help ease the pressures of being from a low-income family. Supporting education and opportunity for young people is a cause that is especially meaningful to me because every child deserves the chance to be successful in school without their home situation limiting their opportunities and I understand how important it is for students to have the resources they need to learn, grow, and succeed.

My goal is to raise $3,500 for Debi Arach and I am asking for your support. With your donations, families in Armenia will receive school supplies for their children, clothes to prepare them for winter and much needed groceries. By helping alleviate concerns about food security and educational expenses, these donations can create opportunities for Armenian students to focus on learning and achieving their goals.

Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference. Your generosity will directly support families in Gyumri and help provide children with the tools and stability they need to thrive. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with friends and family is another valuable way to support the cause.

Thank you!

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

June 2026

End Date

August 2026

Gallery Images

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July 9, 2026

Sabrina spent some of her service days packing and distributing groceries and other essentials for families in Gyumri.

Lori’s Walkathon for Debi Arach

Description

As part of the SERVICE Armenia 2026 trip, participants are raising funds for a Paros project they are passionate about. Lori has chosen to support the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri for  humanitarian aid. The Center serves children from vulnerable families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.
Through a walkathon, Lori will raise funds that will directly support the children’s essential needs and overall well-being. Your support will make a meaningful difference in their lives and help create a brighter future.

A message from Lori:

This summer, I have the incredible opportunity to travel to Armenia with The Paros Foundation as part of a three-week service project alongside students from across the world.

One of the most meaningful parts of my trip will be supporting an organization called Debi Arach, which provides essential resources to families in need in Armenia. When I arrive, I will be personally delivering the funds I’ve raised directly to the organization where they will be used to purchase backpacks, school supplies, winter coats, boots, groceries, and other necessities for families who need them most.

I am organizing a fun walkathon to raise funds for Debi Arach, and I would love your support. I am asking each of you for a minimum donation of $25 and to walk alongside me on June 7th. My goal is to raise $3,000, and with your support, I know we can get there. Of course any amount is greatly appreciated and every dollar makes a difference. If you’re not able to attend the walk, please still consider making a donation.

Event Details
• Date: Sunday June 7
• Start Time: 8:00am
• Location: Brookside Park-3 mile loop around the Rose Bowl

Whether you’re walking by my side or supporting me from afar, every contribution will make a real difference.

Thank you for believing in me and for supporting a cause that matters. It means the world.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

May 2026

End Date

August 2026

Gallery Images

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June 7, 2026

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support Lori’s Walkathon benefiting the Debi Arach Children’s Center. Thanks to your generosity and willingness to show up for this important cause, the event was a tremendous success. Stay tuned to see more of the impact Lori will be making this summer during her service trip!

July 10, 2026

While in Armenia for the SERVICE Armenia 2026 program, Lori helped distribute shoes to the children of Debi Arach in Gyumri.

Friends of Armenia Lacrosse

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Description

Friends of Armenia Lacrosse funds lacrosse programs for girls and boys in Armenia and the Armenian National Men’s and Women’s National Sixes Teams comprised of diaspora players, coaches and management team.

This project’s goal is to purchase lacrosse sticks, goals, balls and equipment for youth lacrosse programs in Armenia and fund staff and annual tournaments and championships. In addition, FAL will provide resources for the Armenia National Sixes Men’s and Women’s Teams to compete at the European Sixes Championships in Salou, Spain, November 2-18, 2026.  This is the first qualifying tournament for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Lacrosse provides opportunities for girls and boys in Armenia to learn and compete in a new Olympic team sport creating positive social change connecting to diaspora men and women national team players as role models. Team sport serves as a powerful metaphor for life, illustrating that success is rarely achieved alone and often hinges on collaboration, resilience and adaptability.

Youth lacrosse in Armenia will grow from 9 communities to 22 in 2026 with the goal of 20 boys and girls in each community, 440 youth players and two coaches per community. In 2027, the goal is to grow the number of players to 30 in each community, 660 players and 3 coaches per community. Training camps and tournaments for National Teams each month to prepare for European Championships in November, 2027. 

The 2026-7 goal is to raise a total of $350,000.  For more information you can visit www.armenialacrosse.com.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

One Year From Start

Gallery Images

Medzamor



Mens and Women’s Sixes



Summer Camp at the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri



Arevashat

The Need

Funding is needed to support lacrosse programs for girls and boys in Armenia and the Armenian National Men’s and Women’s National Sixes Teams comprised of diaspora players, coaches and management teams.  

Short Term Impact

In the short term, FAL will support the number of children learning about and participating in the sport of lacrosse.  In addition, FAL will work towards the Armenian Men’s and Women’s National Teams achieving their goal of qualifying for participation in the 2028 Olympics. 

Long Term Impact

In the long term, Lacrosse will gain popularity as a sport throughout Armenia.  Young people will reap the benefits of teams being established throughout Armenia.  Sportsmen and sportswomen from the diaspora and Armenia will participate hand in hand in Armenia’s march towards the 2028 Olympics. 

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on both Friends of Armenia Lacrosse and The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project. 

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Roots in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur

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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.

Update: As fruit production continues to grow in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur, the current drying equipment is no longer sufficient to manage the increased harvest. A larger fruit dryer, with a total project budget of $6,000, is needed to support students in preserving more fruit and reducing overall waste.

Region

Tavush

City / Village

Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur

Start Date

August 2020

End Date

Gallery Images

Students at the school in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur will be instructed on how to care for their new orchard.

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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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.

June 12, 2026

Our Roots in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur project is growing, literally! Students recently gathered cherries from the orchard, turning their harvest into dried cherries that are now enjoyed as part of their school nutrition lunches. This project is more than an orchard; it’s a living classroom where children learn, grow, and benefit from the fruits of their own work. Your support helps keep this program growing and provides children with hands-on learning and nutritious opportunities. Help us continue planting roots for the future.

June 22, 2026

As fruit production continues to grow in Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur, the current drying equipment is no longer sufficient to manage the increased harvest. A larger fruit dryer, with a total project budget of $6,000, is needed to support students in preserving more fruit and reducing overall waste.

Kharpert Home for Special Children Excursion 27

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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 $350, 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.

Region

Ararat

City / Village

Nor Kharpert

Start Date

End Date

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 Home for Special Children.

Short Term Impact

The short-term impact of this project will help children from the Kharpert Home travel to Gyumri on an away trip and be able to perform their song and dance concert. 

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. This project will also gift the children a special day they will cherish in their memories for a long time.

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.

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Nor Ughi First Grade Classroom Renovation

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Description

Nor Ughi Village is located in Armenia’s Ararat Region and is home to the Vedi Alcohol Company.  Almost 2,000 people call Nor Ughi and neighboring Ginevet Village their home. Many in these villages are employed at Vedi Alcohol factory or are engaged in agricultural activities. 

170 students attend the village school, including six displaced students from Artsakh. The students are from both the neighboring villages of Ginevet and Nor Ughi. Over the last two years, the school’s gym was renovated, and a high-quality outdoor soccer field was constructed and most recently the school’s science laboratory and teacher’s lounge was renovated through the continued leadership of Mr. and Mrs. John & June Mangassarian from Rhode Island and they want to continue positively impacting Nor Ughi.

Next on the list of priorities is the renovation of a large classroom that serves the school’s incoming first grade class.   The scope of work will include the complete renovation of the room’s flooring, walls, electrical and lighting.  

Region

Ararat

City / Village

Nor Ughi

Start Date

June 2026

End Date

2 Months From Start

Gallery Images

The first grade classroom at the school in Nor Ughi needs to be completely renovated.

The Need

Currently, the Nor Ughi School’s classrooms are in poor condition.  The school leadership wishes for its incoming first graders to start their education in safe, clean and inviting surroundings.  It is important to note that currently the Nor Ughi School has not been identified by the Armenian Government to be included in its immediate plan for school renovations. 

Short Term Impact

In the short term, first grade students at the Nor Ughi School will receive a newly renovated classroom to more effectively study and begin their education.  

Long Term Impact

In the long term, the benefit of student’s learning in a clean, safe and comfortable environment directly impacts their level of achievement. This renovation will positively impact hundreds of children over its useful life. 

Sponsors Benefits

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

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June 9, 2026

Renovation work on the Nor Ughi School Classroom has begun and improvements are now underway.

July 25, 2026

Great progress has been made on the classroom. Structural changes are set, the walls have been painted, and, over head lights have been installed. 

August 4, 2026

Renovations to the first-grade classroom at Nor Ughi School are now complete, and the students are excited to begin learning in their safer, newly renovated space.