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

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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.

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

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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

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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.

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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Groceries for Gyumri 2026 – 2027

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Description

Following the 1988 Spitak Earthquake, thousands of people were left homeless in the city of Gyumri. Many of these families took refuge in the overseas shipping containers (domiks) that were shipped into Armenia loaded with humanitarian relief supplies. Although more than a quarter century has passed since the earthquake, this depressive reality still remains. Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.

During his visit to Armenia several summers ago Dustin Hochmuth, one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 participants, and several of his peers, witnessed these horrible conditions and decided to assemble packets for 10 families in dire need of everyday necessities and non-perishable food items. This effort was led by one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 coordinators, Stephanie Nersesyan. Following the success of that effort, Paros has continued implementing this project on a regular basis.

Our goal is to help 200 families in need between the years of 2026 and 2027. Each packet will cost $50 and will include basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items such as rice, flour, sugar, salt, oil, and pasta. The packets will also include fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and canned meats.  Donations in any amount will help this important cause

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

July 2026

End Date

Gallery Images

Packing groceries.



Delivering groceries for families in need.



Groceries arrived at family home.

The Need

Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.

Short Term Impact

In the short term, 200 families will receive packets filled with basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items and fresh food items.

Long Term Impact

In long term, the Armenian diaspora will be exposed to the harsh living conditions in Gyumri through this important project.

Sponsors Benefits

All project sponsors will be recognized on all relevant press regarding this project and on The Paros Foundation’s website. The Paros Foundation can arrange a visit to Gyumri when you are in Armenia.

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June 25, 2026

Thank you to Fr. Ghevond and the parishioners of St. Sarkis Armenian Church (Dallas, Texas), for making a meaningful difference for families in Gyumri!

Their group helped assemble twelve food packs for Groceries for Gyumri before distributing them to families living in the domiks in Gyumri.

July 9, 2026

With the help of donors and SERVICE Armenia 2026 participants, 50 food & supplies packs were assembled and distributed to impoverished families in Gyumri. SERVICE Armenia participants hand delivered some of the packs to families of Gyumri

Arek’s Giving Campaign for Debi Arach

Description

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

A message from Arek:

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

From any time that I can remember, being Armenian has been an important part of my identity. Ever since I was little, I’ve eaten Armenian food, heard it spoken around me, and been told that I look and even act Armenian. Last summer, I got to see more of my Armenian family from around the world that came together in Istanbul to meet up with us. Feeling that shared family connection really meant a lot to me and strengthened my sense of identity as an Armenian. We were so close to Armenia, but didn’t visit and I realized how much I want to go there and connect.

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

Along with organizing service trips, the Paros Foundation develops dozens of projects to support impoverished communities in Armenia. An important aspect of the trip is to raise money for the program that feels most important to me. I was drawn to the Humanitarian Aid for the Debi Arach program, which provides kids in need with backpacks, school supplies, winter coats, boots, shoes and groceries. I’m hoping to raise funds for Debi Arach in order to provide what these kids need most. As someone who has grown up in the Bay Area and attended private schools, I have always been privileged enough to not worry about having my essential needs met. My goal is not only to do my part to relieve this struggle, but also to spread awareness about the important work that the Paros and Debi Arach programs are providing. I’m asking you as our friends and family to help in this effort to support these communities.

Region

Shirak / Շիրակ

City / Village

Gyumri / Գյումրի

Start Date

April 2026

End Date

August 2026

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July 10, 2026

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

Kharpert Home for Special Children Excursion 26

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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

Immediately

End Date

July 2026

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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July 6, 2026

SERVICE Armenia 2026 participants accompanied  residents from the Kharpert Home for Special Children to a fun day at Victory Park in Yerevan.

Orphaned Children Day Excursion 30

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Description

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

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

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

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

Immediately

The Need

Armenia’s orphanages generally are able to provide for their children’s basic care, but limited funding does not allow these children to visit museums, historical sites and popular cultural events. Allowing a child a few hours of recreation and/or entertainment as a regular child greatly enhances his/her outlook on life and reduces the emotional complexes of being an orphan.

Short Term Impact

The short-term impact of this project will be the immediate employment of a bus driver, money being spent in Armenia’s local economy and most importantly the emotional and social benefits for 20 orphan children.

Long Term Impact

This project has considerable long-term emotional, educational and psychological benefits for the children, as they will be able to participate in activities that are above and beyond basic existence in an orphanage.

Sponsors Benefits

Your support of this project will be recognized at the relevant Orphanage, your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation stands ready to help you arrange a visit to the care facility when you are in Armenia.
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