Description
In 2016, the Debi Arach Children’s Center in Gyumri launched their vocational training program at the center in order to provide young adults with a set of skills and tools they will need to secure gainful employment and help break their family’s cycle of poverty. For years, students have participated in their choice of several programs including computer programming classes using a curriculum developed by the Union of Information Technology Enterprises, 3D printing and related software and programming, and computer repairs – both hardware and software. Since 2019, additional vocational options were added to the program including instruction for cosmetologists, hair stylists, make-up artists and manicurists. In 2021, the Hianali Beauty Center was launched as a salon that offers training classes for students, as well as public services. Furthermore, vocational courses are also offered at Digital Pomegranate and the Lentex Textile Factory, both located in Gyumri. Â
In 2019, the vocational training program was renamed Assarian Vocational Training Program in honor of the Dr. Gary and Linda Assarian Family Foundation, whose generous donations underwrite the vocational training programs.Â
Sponsorship towards this project will help run the vocational programs in Gyumri, including staff wages and supplies. The goal is to help hundreds of people develop a vision for a successful future, and to give them the skills they need to reach these goals.Â
The Need
Young adults living in extreme poverty in Gyumri, who are not interested or able to continue their higher education, have very bleak prospects for a successful future. To combat this reality, the Debi Arach Vocation Center provides job skills and aid in job placement in order to help these young adults change their lives towards a successful future by gaining real skills and securing real employment.
Short Term Impact
In the short term, students, both current and new, will participate in one of several training programs offered for the duration of a year. Four trainers will be employed and facilitate classes.
Long Term Impact
In the long term, the cycle of poverty will be broken for the newer generations in Gyumri. The new skills these young adults will gain through vocational courses will help secure great jobs and provide opportunities to change their lives. In addition, Gyumri’s economy will also benefit from additional skills being introduced to the job market.
Sponsors Benefits
Your donation to sponsor the Debi Arach Vocational Center will be recognized on a plaque, on The Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the vocational center when you are in Armenia.
Updates: Images & Information
Dr. Gary Assarian, was highlighted by his Alma Mater, Lake Forest College, on his and his wife Linda’s work in Armenia with The Paros Foundation! Read more about their philanthropy in Armenia here.
Congratulations to the latest Lentex class of 15 women, including several Artsakh refugees, who have successfully completed their training and are now employed full-time at the Lentex textile factory. This achievement was made possible through the invaluable support of the Assarian Vocational Training Program, spearheaded by Dr. Gary and Mrs. Linda Assarian. We are proud of these women for successfully taking on a new venture.
Our Donors (10)
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Dr. & Mrs. Gary & Linda Assarian
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Cultural Society Of Armenians From Istanbul
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Cultural Society Of Armenians From Istanbul
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Mr. & Mrs. Greg & Karmen Dadourian
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Mr. & Mrs. Berge & Arpine Ayvazian
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Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Kathy Mouradjian
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Armenian Renaissance Association
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Armenian Renaissance Association
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Rebecca Rafaelian Caruolo & Family
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Developmental Services for Armenia