FRESNO—As the first event of its kind, the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee headed to Fresno, California on Saturday, October 22, 2016 to hold a community educational and fundraising event, which was graciously hosted by Raffi and Hilda Santikian at their residence.
ARS Fresno Chapter Chairpersons, Angele Ohannessian (Mayr Chapter) and Arpy Tanielian (Sophia Chapter) delivered welcoming remarks to attendees, which included community and chapter members, representatives of the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee and local ACF Tehlirian Gomideh, and recognized the preparations made by ARS members for the event. Guests then viewed a video presentation detailing the needs of Armenians in Javakhk and the constructive programs and activities spearheaded by the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee in the region.
Committee Chairperson Lena Bozoyan extended a special mention of appreciation to the evening’s hosts, as well as to both ARS chapters in the community, for bringing their support toward the successful organization of the event. During her remarks, she also provided explanation on the significance of Javakhk, the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee’s history and formation, as well as the beneficial programs it supports in Javakhk. Bozoyan further stressed the importance of visiting Javakhk during any destination visit to the homeland, affirming that Javakhk is vitally part of Armenia. When discussing the three youth centers the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee currently supports in Javakhk, Bozoyan described these centers as sites that preserves the Armenian identity of youth in the region, and made known that the Committee is exploring the possibility of opening a fourth center.
After extending thanks to community members for their moral and financial support, Bozoyan invited John Kossakian, Holy Martyrs Marie Cabayan Elementary School Principal, to deliver an informative presentation to guests. Through a visual presentation with over 150 slides that were incorporated during his address, Kossakian discussed the history, nature, present-day situation of Javakhk, and its great strategic importance and ramifications in the Caucasus region. His presentation delivered a wealth of information to attendees.
Energized by the work of the ARS Javakhk Fund Committee and its vital projects, guests contributed their financial support, which was announced by Harout Madenian, ARS Javakhk Fund Committee Member, during the event. As the evening drew to a close, the Committee extended its gratitude to the Santikian family by presenting them with a floral bouquet as a gesture of appreciation for generously opening their home to kindly welcome this beneficial community event.
Source: Asbarez
Link: ARS Javakhk Fund’s Fresno Community Event Brings Focus to Javakhk