CHATSWORTH, California—The Armenian Relief Society of Western USA’s North San Fernando Valley “Lori” Chapter held a special reception on Friday, July 8, 2016 honoring Irene Boodakian, who generously donated $30,000 to benefit the chapter’s Saturday School. As a result of her patronage, the chapter’s school will be renamed the “ARS Lori – Irene Boodakian Saturday School.”
The event was held at the Armenian Community Center’s Titizian Hall where ARS Regional Executive Chairperson Rebecca Berberian, Board Member Nanik Kupelian, a large number of chapter members, and representatives of the local ACF “Arshavir Shiragian” Gomideh were in attendance.
Established in September 2013, the ARS Lori Chapter’s Saturday School has grown throughout the years to currently have 50 students from various public schools enrolled and receiving instruction in the Armenian language, culture and heritage.
Opening remarks were delivered by Maral Bastilian, Chapter Chairperson, who expressed utmost thanks to Boodakian for her kindhearted and substantial donation. Bastilian affirmed that the chapter will continue to diligently focus its efforts on advancing the work of their Saturday School in an effort to continue to have enrollment numbers increase. Appreciation was also expressed to the ARS Regional Executive Board, ARS Schools Board of Regents, and the “Arshavir Shiragian” Gomideh for their ongoing support of the chapter’s programs and activities.
Following these remarks, Boodakian was invited to deliver a message to attendees. On her behalf, ARS “Lori” Chapter Vice-Chairperson Maral Manokian read Boodakian’s message in which her great pleasure to have been able to make such a contribution to the chapter was conveyed. She stressed her firm belief in the vital work that ARS Saturday Schools carry out in educating young Armenians in the Armenian language, history, and traditions.
On behalf of the ARS Regional Executive Board, Berberian addressed the audience and expressed gratitude to Boodakian for her significant contribution. Berberian gave mention to the important role of ARS schools, particularly in the Diaspora, and recognized the active work and activities of the ARS “Lori” Chapter in their community. A message on behalf of the ARS Schools Board of Regents was also delivered to guests in which the body expressed their readiness and willingness to continually be of assistance to the chapter and their school.
The event concluded with remarks by Toros Kejejian, representative from the ACF “Arshavir Shiragian” Gomideh, who extended wishes of continued success to the chapter’s programs. A light reception in good company followed the official program.
Source: Asbarez
Link: Irene Boodakian Donates ,000 to ARS ‘Lori’ Chapter Saturday School