ARS Inc. & UNICEF co-sponsor a briefing on
"Violence against children in the Republic of Armenia" (3/2005)
Armenian NGO-s meet at the UN Permanent Mission of Armenia (3/2005)
ARS Inc. "HIV/AIDS Education & Prevention Project" gets grant extension
from World AIDS Foundation (1/2005)
The building of the ARS Birthing Center in Akhurian Completed (12/2004)
ARS Inc. Participates in UN DPI Conference with Large Delegation (9/2004)
The Opening of the 10th & 11th ARS "Sosseh" Kindergartens in Artsakh (9/2004)
ARS Inc. to Participate in UN DPI Conference (8/2004)
The ARS "Mother and Child" Health Center in Akhurian (6/2004)
ARS/Europe Seminar Concludes its Work (5/2004)
The ARS Central Executive Board Organizes its Third Seminar (5/2004)
"The Global Reach od the ARS" issue of the ARS periodical "Hai Sird" (4/2004)
The ARS Central Executive Board Organizes its Second Seminar (4/2004)
UN Permanent Mission of Armenia Meets with NGO Representatives (3/2004)
ARS, Inc. Contributes $5,000 to the Earthquake Victims in Ira n(3/2004)
ARS, Inc. Participates in UN Conference with Large Delegation (9/2003)
ARS, Inc. Central Exec. Board Announces 2nd Annual NGO Conference (9/2003)
ARS, Inc. Plans Participation & Workshop for UNDP Information Conf. (8/2003)
Armenian Relief Society, Inc. Promotes a "Society for All" (7/2003)
Substantial Funding of ARS Project by World AIDS Foundation (7/2003)
ARS Delegation Briefs President Kocharian (6/2003)
Celebrations in the "Sosse" Kindergartens (3 & 4/2003)
A publication entitled "Armenian Traditional Costumes" (3/2003)
The latest issue of the ARS International periodical "Hai Sird" (3/2003)
ARS CE holds dynamic seminar, honors Egoyan (3/2003)
ARS and UNDP Armenia join efforts to rehabilitate Armenian schools (2/2003)
ARS to Donate $50,000 to Haiastan All-Armenia Fund (2/2003)
ARS to Participate as Observer in Armenia's Presidential Elections (2/2003)
The ARS Contributes $12,000 to the Gyumri Invalids Orphanage (1/2003)

"VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA" BRIEFING
AND THE IMPORTANCE OF POSITIVE PARENTING PRACTICES

Briefing participants

Naira Avetisyan

Cassie Landers

In late summer of 2001, the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. Central Executive Board (ARS) considered a proposal, in collaboration with UNICEF, to study the prevalence of violence against children in families of Armenia.

While its fundamental mission remains to preserve and protect the integrity of the Armenian family and home - the centenarian ARS weighed social responsibility over social reaction: implementation of a child-rights-based, ground-breaking initiative over challenging the unthinkable and socially taboo subject of violence against children. The study, however contemporary and controversial, was approved as essential.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), an international human rights instrument, was adopted by the Republic of Armenia in 1993 and guarantees protection from violence and exploitation.

Armenia has taken the necessary legislative, administrative and other steps to implement the Convention.on the Rights of the Child (CRC).  Thus, the Armenian Constitution guarantees protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens in accordance with the norms of international law. In order to ensure that children’s rights are fully upheld in Armenia, the following statutes have been enacted and have entered into force since the country gained independence: the Children’s Rights Act, the Civil Code, the Code of Civil Procedure, the Code of Criminal Procedure, the Citizenship Act, the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, the Medical Assistance and Services Act, the Education Act, the Military Servicemen and Their Family Members (Social Welfare) Act, the Disabled Persons (Social Welfare) Act, the Refugees Act, the Urban Planning Act, the Military Conscription Act, the Language Act, the Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations Act and the State Pensions Act. On 30 November 2000, Armenia signed up to the decision adopted by the Commonwealth of Independent States on child welfare in its member States.

For the first time, the country’s family law will provide safeguards protecting children from violence within the family. In this connection, the legislation will stipulate that the means of raising children, which parents shall be at liberty to determine for themselves, must exclude any form of neglect, cruel, harsh or degrading treatment, insults, or exploitation.  (CRC/C/93/Add.6 17 July 2003)

On Wednesday, March 2, 2005, the United States Fund for UNICEF and the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. co-sponsored a briefing on Violence Against Children in the Republic of Armenia. The briefing was held at the US Fund for UNICEF Board Room in New York City and listed as a scheduled side event of the 49^th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).

Keynote speaker, NAIRA AVETISYAN, M.D., Child Protection Officer, UNICEF-Armenia with over 15 years experience in the fields of medicine, public health and child protection, presented the findings and recommendations of the 2003 study Violence Against Children in the Republic of Armenia, which was supported by a grant from the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) and UNICEF/Armenia and implemented in cooperation with ARS /Armenia (click here to read an abstract of the study). 

CASSIE LANDERS, Ed.D., MPH, spoke on the importance of positive parenting practices: Preparing Children for School, Parental Education in Armenia, a Step by Step/UNICEF project in Armenia. This case study illustrates the success of a pilot program designed to help parents prepare their 4-5 year old children for school.  Since 1985, Dr. Landers has worked extensively with UNICEF to promote policy and program guidelines in support of young children and their families. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at Columbia University School of Public Health. With a grant from the Open Society Institute, her primary responsibility is the design and development of early childhood models for Central and Eastern Europe as well as Central Asia.

ARMENIAN NGO-S MEET AT THE UN PERMANENT MISSION OF ARMENIA

The Permanent Mission of Armenia (PMA) to the United Nations (New York) extended an invitation to the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS-I) and other United States-based Armenian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) affiliated with the United Nations, to meet with several visiting members of the Armenian government delegation attending the Forty-ninth session of The Commission of the Status of Women.

Armen Martirosyan, Ambassador, (PMA), introduced the visiting dignitaries, each remarking on the social and economic developments in Armenia, impacting the full implementation of human rights issues of women’s rights, inter alia, and in the Republic of Armenia.

Representatives of the Armenian government included H.E. Aghvan Vardanyan, Minister of Labor and Social Issues; Mr. Stepan Mnatsakanian, Chairman of the National Council on Statistics; Ms. Hranush Hakobyan, Chairwoman of the Standing Committee of Education and Science of the National Assembly;  Ms. Heghine Bisharyan, Deputy of the National Assembly; and Ms. Alis Adamyan, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Women Issues.

A question and answer period followed with the participation of NGO representatives from the Prelacy of of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America; Diocese of the Armenian Church of America; the Armenian International Women’s Association; the Armenian Assembly of America; the Armenian General Benevolent Union; and the Armenian Relief Society Inc.

Representatives of the Armenian Relief Society Inc. participating in the Commission of the Status of Women (CSW) sessions (28 February to 11 March 2005 ) comprised of Unghs. Janet Markarian, Harriet Kazarian, Hamesd Beugekian, Valentine Berberian, Penelope Giragosian, and Dr. Naira Avetisyan, UNICEF-Armenia Child Protection Officer and ARS-Inc. invited guest speaker to the CSW.

ARS INC. "HIV/AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION PROJECT" GETS GRANT EXTENSION FROM WORLD AIDS FOUNDATION

The Central Executive Board of the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) is pleased to announce that the “HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Project,” at the ARS “Mother & Child” Clinic in Akhurian , Armenia , has been granted an extension.The project, funded by a grant from the World AIDS Foundation, is a collaborative effort between the ARS and the University of Massachusetts , Worcester .

The purpose of this project is to develop a decentralized model of HIV/AIDS education and prevention that can be replicated throughout Armenia and possibly in other Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) nations.In addition, it begins to establish a climate that will support HIV health care delivery in the near future.Project team members include Dr. Carol Bova, Assistant Professor of Nursing and Medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical School; Dr. Sevak Avagyan, Director of the ARS “Mother & Child” Clinic; Carol Jaffarian, Nurse Manager/Nurse Practitioner of the HIV Clinic at U Mass Memorial Healthcare, and member of the ARS; and Dr. Mkhitar Mkhitaryan, Executive Director of the ARS “Mother & Child” Clinic.

Built in the region of Armenia devastated by the 1988 earthquake, the ARS Mother & Child Clinic, the first licensed and registered privately owned medical facility in Armenia , became operational in May 1997. Providing the 22,000 strong population of Akhurian and six adjacent villages with free medical care and treatment, more than 40,000 women and children have received care at the Clinic since its inception; and more than 450 children have been born to mothers followed in this clinic.

In September 2003, the ARS celebrated the groundbreaking of a Birthing Center at the Clinic, which will officially become operational in April, 2005, the date on which Armenians throughout the world will commemorate the 90^th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Thus, the new ARS Birthing Center will be affirming the joy and final triumph of new life over violence, death and despair.

Founded in 1910 as an independent, non-sectarian, non-governmental organization (NGO), serving the humanitarian, social, and educational needs of Armenians, the ARS has affiliate entities in 24 countries with a membership of approximately 18,000.An NGO on the roster in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, the ARS is a 501© (3) charitable, tax-exempt organization.

14 January, 2005

THE BUILDING OF THE ARS BIRTHING CENTER IN AKHURIAN COMPLETED

The Central Executive Board of the Armenian Relief Society is pleased to announce the completion of its Birthing Center, adjacent to the ARS “Mother & Child” Health Center in Akhurian, Armenia.

Eight years ago, in 1997 to be exact, the Akhurian site was chosen by the ARS of Eastern United States, to build a Ministry of Health licensed, non-profit Health Center, operating entirely with the financial support of the ARS. At its inception, the Center was meant to serve a population of some 22,000, living in the Akhurian Region’s six adjacent villages; today, it has expanded its reach to more than 50,000 people, covering a large area of the Shirak Marz.

Staffed with an efficient medical and support personnel of 24, the Center operates with modern medical equipment, including Sonography and Mammography units, and provides gynecological, pediatric pre- and post-natal care, all free of charge to the residents of the region. With the recent addition of the Birthing Center wing, the survival rate of both mother and new-born infant will improve considerably, bringing the effective care of women’s and infants’ health in the region to full cycle.

With on-going staff training and teaching, the Center provides professional care and training to improve the overall health awareness in the region. The Center has worked with Centers of Learning, such as UCLA and UMASS, United Nations agencies such as UNICEF and UNFPA, national and international organizations such as the World Health Organization, IRD, AMCHOR, USAID, World Vision and American International Medical Committee.

Presently, with the cooperation of the University of Massachusetts Medical Center’s HIV Clinic, a study in preventive measures against sexually transmitted diseases and HIV is being conducted. The ARS-U Mass team is proceeding with its work backed by a grant from the World AIDS Foundation.

Construction work of the much needed Birthing Center wing -- started in Sept. 2003 -- is now completed and its official opening is scheduled to coincide with the 90^th Genocide Commemoration in April, 2005, to affirm, once more, the triumph of life over death.

Built to safeguard precious lives dependent on proper care, this new unit adds approximately 7,200 square feet to the existing facility, at an eventual cost of approximately $450,000 -- including much needed equipment and furnishings, still to come. The ARS Central Executive calls upon all its supporters to donate generously in order to expedite the successful completion of this project designed to give generations yet to be born a healthy start in life.

December 30, 2004

ARS INC. PARTICIPATES IN UNITED NATIONS DPI/NGO CONFERENCE,
8-10 SEPTEMBER, 2004, WITH LARGE DELEGATION FROM US & CANADA

More than 27 members of the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. from the United States, Canada and Lebanon participated in the 57th Annual Department of Public Information/Non-Governmental Organizations Conference, entitled MILLENIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS: CIVIL SOCIETY TAKES ACTION, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, from Wednesday to Friday, 8 to 10 September, 2004.

The three-day gathering attracted more than 2,700 representatives from 90 countries around the world to discuss issues relating to MILLENIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS. Secretary-General Kofi Annan opened the Conference in the General Assembly Hall.In addition to five plenary panels and 30 Midday NGO Interactive Workshops, the Conference featured speakers such as Eveline Herfkins, Executive Coordinator, United Nations Millennium Development Goals Campaign, Jeffrey Sachs, Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on the Millennium Development Goals, and Mark Malloch Brown, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), among others.

At the Millennium Summit in 2000, 189 Member States adopted a Declaration that synthesized the priorities of the international agenda and reflected the commitments that had been painstakingly negotiated during the previous decade of world conferences.The Millennium Declaration, and the eight goals it identified, have become a road map for tackling poverty, instability, HIV/AIDS, gender inequality and violence in virtually all parts of the world.

The Armenian Relief Society, Inc. sponsored a Midday NGO Interactive Workshop entitled “HIV/AIDS Education, Prevention and Care; an Emphasis on Engaging Boys and Men as Full Partners of Women and Children”. with 2 other NGO’s: the NGO Committee on Child’s Rights and the NGO Committee on HIV/AIDS.The Midday Workshop took place on Thursday, 9 September 2004, in the Dag Hammarskjold Library Auditorium. The workshop gathered more than 160 people to discuss successful HIV/AIDS education models and ways to address obstacles such as denial, stigmatization and the undue burden on women and children in most societies.Carol Bova, Assistant Professor, Graduate School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, spoke of the AIDS crisis in Armenia and her work educating the population about the disease.ARS, Inc. sponsors and assists Dr. Bova in her endeavors.

September 14, 2004

THE OPENING OF THE 10-TH & 11-TH
ARS "SOSEH" KINDERGARTENS IN ARTSAKH

We are pleased to announce, that the opening of the Shoushi and Moushatagh village (district of Qashatagh) ARS "SOSEH" Kindergartens brings the total number of our Artsakh kindergartens to 11. The Shoushi kindergarten, with a staff of 10, will be attended by 50 children, while the one in Qashatagh, with a staff of 6, will be attended by 25 youngsters.

The ARS, in 1997, founded its first kindergarten in Stepanakert, offering the needy children of Artsakh devoted care and elementary education in Armenian culture. This worthy endeavor continues for the last 7 years, and today there are 9 "SOSEH" Kindergartens in Artsakh with the two latest, as noted above, bringing the total to 11.

With the implementation of this program, more than 520 Artsakh children, to this day, receive the necessary daily care and attention that will prepare them to become solid, productive citizens of our Homeland. It should also be noted, that this program provides gainful employment to over 100 adults.

September 13, 2004

ARS INC. TO PARTICIPATE IN
UNITED NATIONS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CONFERENCE
8-10 SEPTEMBER, 2004

Seven Years of Service to the People of Akhurian
THE ARS "MOTHER AND CHILD" HELATH CENTER

June 2004

ARS/EUROPE SEMINAR IN BULGARIA CONCLUDES ITS WORK

Over the past twelve months, initiated by the ARS Central Executive Board, regional seminars with the common theme of “Voluntary Organizations in the 21^st Century”were organized to study issues concerning the Armenian people and the world-wide activities of the Armenian Relief Society. The last one of these seminars took place in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, bringing together ARS entities active in Europe; ARS members and invitees from Greece, France, England and various Bulgarian cities to take part in the proceedings of this gathering.

The official opening of the Seminar took place Friday morning, May 21, in the presence of His Eminence Tirayr Martikian, Archbishop of the Bulgarian and Rumanian Sees, various organizations’ representatives and honored guests. 

After the welcoming remarks of the ARS/Bulgaria Chairperson Mannik Shamlian and the blessings of the Archbishop, the written greetings of Ambassador Sevda Sevan of Armenia and the Mayor of Plovdiv were read, followed by the warm welcome extended by the representative of the ARF/Dashnaktsutiun in Bulgaria.The proceedings were opened by ARS Central Executive Board member Helen Merdjanian, who stressed the necessity of these seminars for the elucidation of the Society’s actual and planned course of activities.  

Without further ado, the two-day Seminar proceeded with its program. Discussing issues directly concerning the ARS organization in Europe and, generally, related to Diasporan communities as well as the Homeland. The Seminar gave the participants the opportunity to closely study the ways and means of reaching ideal conclusions and effective solutions to problems and challenges facing our people today. 

The Seminar concluded its work Saturday afternoon, on May 22^nd.

May 24, 2004

THE ARS CENTRAL EXECUTIVE BOARD ORGANIZES ITS THIRD SEMINAR

The ARS Central Executive Board has organized its Third Seminar for its European entities, setting “Voluntary Organizations in the 21^st Century” as its theme. The Seminar will discuss issues faced primarily by the European entities. Among the focal points are items concerning modernity and related issues concerning Armenian women as well as general subjects related to regional and Pan-Armenian realities. 

The Seminar will take place from May 21-22, 2004, in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, with the participation of members belonging to the ARS entities of Europe, lecturers and guests. 

The following are the subjects to be presented by six lecturers: Shahan Faradjian “Organizational;. Eva Berberian "Educational"; Helen Merdjanian "Non-Governmental Organizations"; Hagop Balian  "Diaspora-Homeland";Garine Hovhanessian "Javakhq"; Hilda Choboyan" The Status of Armenian Organizations in a Newly Emerging Europe".

May 10, 2004

"THE GLOBAL REACH OF THE ARS"
ISSUE OF "HAI SIRD"
THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE OF THE ARMENIAN RELIEF SOCIETY, INC.

Recently, in April 2004, the Central Executive Board of the ARS published the latest issue (#157) of its international magazine “Hai Sird” with the general theme of “The Global Reach of the ARS”. The colorful, tastefully designed 64 pages of this issue contain --alongside notable pieces of organizational and informational value, interesting articles on social, historical, literary and cultural issues written in Armenian, English, French and Spanish.

Of special interest is Dr. Rubina Pirumian’s study on the role of the Armenian woman in the general context of Diaspora-Armenia relations and national reconstruction. Equally absorbing are Nushik Eloyan’s article on the mission of the non-governmental organizations and Richard Giragosian’s serious analysis of the present socio-political situation in Armenian-populated Javakhq.

The literary content of this issue consists of a sampling of Hovhannes Tumanian’s poetry written for children and translated into English for this issue, in an attempt to familiarize the English-speaking readers with the work of the “Poet of All Armenians”; Isabel Kaprielian-Churchill’s nostalgic “Marriage and Love In America”, and two recent poems by Alvard Petrosian translated into English.  

This latest issue of “Hai Sird” also contains an excellent book review by Shake Melkonian-Minassian and a reportage of the 56^th Annual NGO Conference in Manhattan, by Nayiree Derderian. 

To receive a copy of this issue, get in touch with your local ARS office.

April 26, 2004

THE ARS CENTRAL EXECUTIVE BOARD ORGANIZES ITS SECOND SEMINAR

The ARS Central Executive Board is organizing its Second Seminar, which will discuss issues concerning primarily the Middle Eastern entities. Among the focal points are items concerning modernity and related issues concerning Armenian women as well as general subjects related to regional and Pan-Armenian realities.The Seminar will be followed by a pilgrimage to Deir Ezzor.

The Seminar will take place from April 30th to May 2nd, 2004, in Beirut, Lebanon, with the participation of members from various ARS Middle Eastern entities.

The following are the topics to be discussed at the Seminar under the general theme of"Voluntary Organizations in the 21st Century":
a) Organizational issues, speakers: Houri Najarian & Dickie Torigian;
b) Educational issues, speaker: Khachig Shahinian;
c) Social issues, speakers: Mary Arevian and Tamar Der Bedrosian;
d) Non-Governmental Organizations, speakers: Seta Hedeshian & Hamesd Beugekian;
e) Diaspora-Homeland, speaker: Hovsep Ghazarian;
f) Javakhq, speaker: Viken Avakian.

April 7, 2004

UN PERMANENT MISSION OF ARMENIA MEETS
WITH ARMENIAN NGO REPRESENTATIVES
ARS, Inc. is represented by P.Giragosian and H.Beugekian

On March 25, Ambassador Armen Martirosyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN, met with the representatives of the Armenian non-governmental organizations accredited at the United Nations.

This was the first meeting of its kind aiming at getting more closely acquainted with the work carried out by these organizations at the UN, their concerns and the possibilities for expanded cooperation with the Permanent Mission in this respect.

At the beginning of the meeting Ambassador Martirosyan thanked the participants for the enthusiastic response to the Mission's invitation to hold such a meeting.

He noted that Armenia, after becoming a member of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC), had been trying to have constructive input in the works of this essential UN body in all those spheres that the country had some experience in or had persisting problems. The NGOs have an essential role in this respect, as organizations participating in the activities of this body.

Meeting participants included Diane Paravazian from the Armenian Assembly of America, Aram Arkun from the Eastern Diocese, Mary Toumayan and Mary Melikian-Hayner from the Armenian International Women’s Association, Anie Kalayjian from the World Federation of Mental Health, Hrag Vartanian and Adrienne Alexanian from the Armenian General Benevolent Union, Hamesd Beugekian and Penelope Giragosian from the Armenian Relief Society and Iris Papazian from the Eastern Prelacy.

The participants welcomed the idea of the meeting and spoke in favor of the approach described by the Ambassador, which will present Armenia to the international community in all the dimensions of its activities and in the whole spectrum of the existing problems and concerns. It will also allow the Armenian NGOs to more fully and comprehensively present their activities and projects carried out in Armenia that fall within the framework of the ECOSOC.

At the end of the meeting the representatives of the Armenian NGOs expressed their willingness to continue this positive engagement and work in the areas envisaged in a more coordinated way.

March 29, 2004

ARS, INC. CONTRIBUTES $5,000 TO THE EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN IRAN

The Armenian Relief Society's Board of Directors announced a contribution of $5,000 on behalf of ARS world organization, to assist childrenorphaned by the Bam earthquake in Iran.

March 5, 2004

ARS, INC. PARTICIPATES IN UN CONFERENCE 8-10 SEPTEMBER, 2003
WITH LARGE DELEGATION FROM US AND CANADA

More than 30 members of the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. from the United States and Canada, including chairperson Maro Minassian, participated in the 56th Annual United Nations Department of Public Information/Non-Governmental Organizations (DPI/NGO) Conference, entitled HUMAN SECURITY AND DIGNITY: FULFILLING THE PROMISE OF THE UNITED NATIONS, at United Nations Headquarters in New York, 8-10 September 2003.

”The three-day gathering attracted more than 2,000 individuals from around world to discuss issues relating to human security and dignity”,- said Under-Secretary General for Communications and Public Information, Shashi Tharoor, at the Opening Session. "NGOs represent myriad voices from around the world and we are determined to reach out to them with our common concerns and commitments in achieving human security."

The Conference featured presentations by such notables as: Fernando Henrique Cardoso, former President of Brazil, who now chairs a high-level panel to strengthen United Nations partnerships with civil society; Danny Glover, the actor and a United Nations Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador; Jeffrey Sachs, world-renowned economist on development issues and a Special Advisor to the United Nations Secretary-General; as well as Sadako Ogata, former United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Co-Chair of the United Nations Commission on Human Security.

In addition, ARS, Inc. sponsored a Midday Workshop of the Conference entitled "Micro-finance: Empowering Women and Persons with Disabilities toward Economic Security" on Tuesday, 9 September. The Workshop gathered more than 120 people to discuss best practices and initiatives involved in strengthening local economies through micro-finance programs. Speakers included Nancy M. Barry, president of Women's World Banking; Dr. David Helm, Director of Interdisciplinary Training, and Dr. Susan Foley, Senior Research Associate, of the Institute for Community Inclusion, Boston, MA., and Ani Kazarian, Research Associate, The CAKE Foundation, a private operating foundation, Providence, RI. Dr. Mary Serano, delegate from the Permanent Mission of Uruguay to the United Nations, presented on behalf of Beatriz Argimon, Representative by Montevideo, Camara de Representantes, Republica Oriental del Uruguay.

ARS, Inc. has been associated for more than 20 years with the DPI. Organization members Harriet Kazarian and Stephanie Mesrobian were part of the Conference Planning Committee, which met since January to organize the proceedings. Miss Mesrobian also chaired the Interactive Media Committee, which created an interactive web site that enabled NGOs and the general public access to live audio and video web casts through their personal computers. A dynamic feature of the web cast was an open discussion forum designed for each plenary session where NGOs connected globally and shared comments on issues related to human security and dignity.

As the United Nations gears up for the World Summit on the Information Society (in Geneva from 10 to 12 December 2003), and seeks to close the technological gap between nations, this groundbreaking initiative brought NGOs worldwide together to share their valuable insights live.

September 18, 2003

ARS, INC. CENTRAL EXECUTIVE BOARD ANNOUNCES
SECOND ANNUAL NGO CONFERENCE

The Armenian Relief Society, Inc has announced that it will hold its Second NGO Conference under the Auspices of Dr. Bella Kocharianin Yerevan on Sept 25, 2003, at the Congress Hotel, from 9 am. to 5 pm.

Following last year's inaugural event, the ARS, Inc sponsored event will gather other NGOs to discuss progress made and recommendations for future projects in the areas of Domestic Violence, HIV/AIDS, Disabled Children's Rights and Trafficking.

Opening speakers will include First Lady Bella Kocharian, US Ambassador John Ordway and ARS, Inc. CEB Chairperson Maro Minassian.

A report on progress in the four areas will be made by members of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs which will also make up the morning portion and workshops in the four areas of discussion, concluding the afternoon segment.

September 12, 2003

ARS, INC. PLANS PARTICIPATION AND MIDDAY WORKSHOP FOR
UNITED NATIONS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CONFERENCE
8-10 SEPTEMBER, 2003

The 56th Annual Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), entitled HUMAN SECURITY AND DIGNITY: FULFILLING THE PROMISE OF THE UNITED NATIONS, will take place at United Nations Headquarters in New York from 8 - 10 September 2003.The event is organized by the United Nations
Department of Public Information (DPI) in partnership with the NGO/DPI Executive Committee and its Conference Planning Committee. 

On Tuesday, 9 September, ARS, Inc. will present a Midday Workshop entitled "Micro-finance: Empowering Women and Persons with Disabilities toward Economic Security" at 1:15 p.m. at 777 United Nations Plaza (Church Center), 11th Floor Hardin Conference Room (corner of First Avenue and 44th Street).Speakers include Beatriz Argimon, Representative by Montevideo, Camara de Representantes, Republica Oriental del Uruguay; Dr. David T. Helm, Director of Interdisciplinary Training, Institute for Community Inclusion, Boston, Mass., and Ani Kazarian, Research Associate, The CAKE Foundation, a private operating foundation, Providence, RI.

The Midday Workshop further explores a theme of one of the plenary sessions of the Conference, "From Oppression to Empowerment." Oppression can take the form of unjust hardship and tyranny.It may restrict people's identity. In the face of oppression, the universal need of the human spirit to be recognized and valued often moves people to fight for their human rights and dignity. This workshop will look at the extraordinary efforts of those who have succeeded in their quest for empowerment.It will examine the key motivators and kinds of leadership that inspired women and persons with disabilities to challenge the status quo. Moreover, the Workshop will explore global benchmarking micro-finance initiatives highlighting key best practices metrics. Armenia will be a focus.

The building and workshop are open to the public.For questions or more information, please contact ARS, Inc. at 617-926-5892

August 8, 2003

ARMENIAN RELIEF SOCIETY, INC. PROMOTES A "SOCIETY FOR ALL"

The Armenian Relief Society, Inc., Central Executive Board (ARS CEB), world headquarters in, received funding transferred from the United Nations Voluntary Fund on Disability, to implement a Nationwide Study on Early Identification of Childhood Disabilities in Armenia.

The ARS,in collaboration with the Ministry of Health Armenia and UNICEF Armenia, announced that this landmark study will contribute significantly toward the Development of a National Program on Early Identification of Childhood Disability and Early Intervention.

With an estimated 10 per cent of the world's population experiencing some form of disablement, the United Nations Voluntary Fund on Disability directs special attention to supporting catalytic and innovative action which will: (a) promote greater awareness of disability issues and exchanges of knowledge and experience;(b) build national capacities and institutional capabilities for integrated policies and programs in the disability field and for national disability legislation; (c) improve data collection, applied research and evaluation, (d) facilitate pilot efforts; and (e) promote wide dissemination of appropriate disability technologies.

The Armenian Relief Society Inc, in consultative status with ECOSOC, integrates the principles of A World Fit for Children; the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and the 2002-2005 UNICEF Medium Term Strategic Plan through its 2003 international program initiatives in Maternal health, Early childhood, and primary education; HIV/AIDS, and gender equality, and empowerment of women.

A co-moderator on UNICEF's Thematic Caucus on Child Disability Rights at the United Nations Special Session on Children, the Armenian Relief Society advocates the rights of all children and supports full participation and equalization of rights for persons with disabilities throughout the world.

July 23, 2003

SUBSTANTIAL FUNDING OF ARS PROJECT BY WORLD AIDS FOUNDATION

The Central Executive Board of the Armenian Relief Society Inc. is pleased to announce the implementation of an HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Project at the ARS Mother & Child Clinic in Akhourian, Armenia.The project, funded by a grant from the World AIDS Foundation, is the result of a collaborative effort with the University of Massachusetts, Worcester.Project team members include: Dr. Carol Bova, Assistant Professor of Nursing and Medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, who will serve as Principal Investigator; Dr. Sevak Avagyan, Director of the ARS Mother-Child Clinic, who will serve as Co-Principal Investigator; Carol Jaffarian, Nurse Manager/Nurse Practitioner of the HIV Clinic at U Mass Memorial Healthcare, and member of ARS, who will serve as Project Coordinator; and Dr. Mkhitar Mkhitaryan, Executive Director of the ARS Mother & Child Clinic, who will serve as In-Country Coordinator.The purpose of this project will be to develop a decentralized model of HIV/AIDS education and prevention that can be replicated throughout Armenia and possibly in other Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) nations.In addition, it will begin to establish a climate that will support HIV health care delivery in the near future.The project is scheduled to begin in September 2003.

July 22, 2003

ARS DELEGATION BRIEFS PRESIDENT KOCHARIAN

An Armenian Relief Society delegation, led by the organization's chairwoman Maro Minassian, met with President Robert Kocharian on Wednesday.

Minassian briefed the President on ARS healthcare and education programs and small business assistance initiatives in Armenia, Mountainous Karabagh and Javakhk.

President Kocharian praised the ARS for the implementation of the vital programs and expressed hope that its productivity and history of cooperation with Armenia would continue in the future.

While in the region, Minassian traveled to the predominantly Armenian populated southern Georgian province of Javakhk to discuss with regional ARS chapters the implementation of health, educational, and social programs in the area in the next two years, and to review plans for a medical diagnostic center in Akhalkalak. 

Non-official sources have reported that Kocharian, who is scheduled to leave for Tbilisi on Friday to meet with Georgian counterpart Eduard Shevardnadze, Georgia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Irakli Menagarishvili, and Georgia's State Minister Avtandil Jorbenadze, will be raising the issue of social problems of Javakhk Armenians during meetings.

ARS "SOSSE" KINDERGARTENS IN KARABAGH
CELEBRATE WOMEN'S DAY, EASTER

All ARS "Sosse" Kindergartens in Karabagh celberated the New year in December 2002 and the first days of January 2003. After many weeks of regular schooling, the ARS "Sosse" Kindergarten in the village of Togh celebrated the International Day for Women on March 8. The event consisted of various songs and dances performed by the students.

The ARS "Sosse" Kindergarten in the village of Avdur celebrated Easter on March 22. After reciting their Easter wishes, the students recited the Ten Commandments and various poems dedicated to the special occasion. Parents of the students were present during the celebration which included the distribution of colored eggs. Students had grown wheat in small bowls especially for this occasion.

Easter was celebrated in the "Sosse" Kindergarten of Stepanakert on April 25. The Parish Priest of Stepanakert, Father Minas was invited to participate in the event. He started the celebration with a prayer and he was joined with the students and their parents. After making his wishes for Easter, Father Minas answered many questions by the students, the teachers and parents.

The second part of the celebration was "taken over" by the students, who started by singing three prayers, followed by the recital of the Ten Commandments and two poems glorifying the name and love for God.

The spiritual recitals were followed by songs dedicated to the fatherland, the spring and childhood.

The celebration was concluded with a special lunch, traditional pastries and a competition with colored eggs.

A PUBLICATION ENTITLED "ARMENIAN TRADTITIONAL COSTUMES"

On March 21, 2003 the ARS Regional Executive of Lebanon held a dedication ceremony for "Armenian Traditional Costumes" by Heghoush Papazian, one of the founders of the ARS.

The ceremony took place in the Tenjougian Hall of the "Araxie Boulghourdjian Socio-Medical Center" of ARS Lebanon. Following opening remarks by Seta Khdeshian, Chairperson of ARS Lebanon, Diki Torigian presented a report on the life of Heghoush Papazian and how she studied Armenian traditional costumes in Eastern and Western Armenia, while serving as a doctor in the Armenian Voluntary Units during World War I.

Closing remarks were offered by Shahantoukhd. 

THE LATEST ISSUE OF THE ARS INTERNATIONAL
PERIODICAL "HAI SIRD" DEDICATED TO THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF
THE ARS "SPONSOR-A-CHILD" PROGRAM

In mid-March, the Central Executive Board of the Armenian Relief Society published the latest issue (No. 156) of "Hai Sird", its international periodical, dedicated to the 10th Anniversary of the "Sponsor-A-Child" program. Rich in timely material, the tastefully designed 64 pages of this illustrated journal contain, alongside news, organizational issues and literary pieces in Armenian and English, interesting articles dealing with social issues and history.

Of particular interest is Prof. Anahid Ter Minassian's concise historical overview entitled "The Armenian Woman in the Diaspora", where in 11 pages, she presents the characteristics of the traditional Armenian family and the Armenian woman's place and role in that family. She goes on analyzing the modernization process of the society and the changes in the Armenian woman's status, reaching the panorama of today's lifestyle. Equally interesting and timely is Richard Giragosian's article, entitled "Community at Risk", depicting the precarious situation of the Armenians in Krasnodar, a community trying to survive under the pressures and threat of a renascent Russian chauvinism.

In the literary section, Manuk Mnatsakanian's short story "Hearth", depicting the stormy upheavals in modern day Artsakh, is unique not only for its style and sensitive treatment but also for the fact that one can rarely find, as yet, works of literary valuenarrating and recreating the momentous events of the Artsakh liberation movement; Manuk Mnatsakanian remains a lone exception.

In this issue of "Hai Sird", there are also pieces in a variety subjects and styles by Yerchanguhi Avakian, Dirug Manjik, Yeva Berberian and Mikael Kanayan.   

To receive a copy of this latest issue of "Hai Sird", get in touch with your local ARS office or a chapter in your community.

ARS CE Holds Dynamic Seminar, Honors Egoyan

Opening of the seminar with the anthems of the Republic of Armenia and the ARS.

Adom Egoyan thanking the ARS after receiving the ARS Ararat award from the ARS Central Executive chairperson Maro Minassian.

Doctor Joyce Buchanan, UN ECOSOC director's representative, receiving an Armenian broderies album from the ARS.

Hagop Der Khachatourian talking about the Diaspora-Armenia relations.

Penny Giragossian lecturing about the role of NGOs and the activities of the ARS as an NGO.

A two-day seminar organized by the Central Executive (CE) of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) convened on March 28 in Montreal at the Armenian Center Aharonian Hall.

The seminar attracted 350 ARS members from both the United States and Canada.

In opening the seminar, the Regional Executive chairwoman of ARS Canada Maro Froundjian, conveyed the region's message, while ARS CE chairwoman Maro Minassian spoke about the importance of the seminar.

Representatives of ARS Regional Executives of both the East and West coasts of the United States, from South America, and Canada were present: Maral Torigian, S. America, Sonia Peltekian, ARS-West, Georgie Ann Oshagan, ARS-East, and Maro Froundjian, Canada.

Also present were past CE chairs as well as members Chake Minassian, Vanouhi Issajanian, Janet Markarian, Annig Zindarzian, Haiganoush Kohler, Mako Megerdichian, Araxie Aintablian, Margarite Stepanian, and Arpie Sabounjian (from Haleb, Syria).

Before moving to lectures, the seminar viewed a video of the daily life of students at ARS-sponsored kindergartens in Armenia.

After the viewing, ARS CE member Houri Najarian introduced the first lecturer Nairi Derderian, who presented a slide show titled "Volunteer organizations in the 21st century."

The accountant for the ARS CE George Katsarakis, gave the second lecture on "Fundraising and financial undertakings of non-profitable organizations."

After lunch, participants visited the St. Hagop secondary Armenian School, during which time principal Hagop Bulgarian expressed his gratitude for ARS's constant support. ARS CE chair Maro Minassian presented a $15,000 for a pledge made earlier in the year.

At the afternoon session, the principal of the Toronto Armenian school Raffi Doudaklian presented an lecture, in Armenian, on the "preservation of Armenian culture in Armenian schools," tying in a selection from Vahe Berbarian's "In The Name of The Father and The Son" about an Armenian father who wills 3,000 Armenian books to his teacher son—who is utterly puzzled about what to do with them. The lecture touched the hearts of participants who listened intently.

In its mission to support Armenian schools, the ARS CE presented a $15,000 donation to the newly constructed Toronto Armenian school.

The head of the ARS Western USA's social services office Sona Tsendzalian then gave a lecture "The Social Difficulties of Women, and Their Effects."

At an 8:00 PM social gathering, the chairwoman of the ARS CE Maro Minassian honored Atom Egoyan and Arsinee Khanjian who then addressed the gathering; Minassian presented the newly established ARS "Ararat" honor—a stone plaque, to Egoyan.

The seminar convened the next morning with Noushig Eloyan's lecture on the critical and inescapable mission of non-governmental organizations (NGO) in undertaking and resolving many issues.

The following lecture "The Millennium Development Goals. The Role and Impact of NGO participation," was presented by Joyce Buchanan.

Penny Giragosian's spoke next on the role of NGOs and presented three young women—Lori Hovsepian, Linda Kharaboian and Karin Arakelian—all graduates of the Montreal St. Hagop secondary Armenian School who presented the ARS's activities as an NGO.

After lunch, Hagop Der Khatchadourian addressed the issue of Diaspora-Armenia Relations.

The last presentation at the seminar was by Richard Giragosian on Javakhk.

ARMENIAN RELIEF SOCIETY INC. AND UNDP ARMENIA JOIN EFFORTS TO REHABILITATE ARMENIAN SCHOOLS

The Armenian Diaspora is a powerful worldwide community that supports the motherland in a variety of ways. The United Nations and UNDP in particular, with its development and social agenda, is therefore a natural partner to those Diaspora organizations or individuals who want to invest in the future of the country.

In late 2002, UNDP Armenia and the Ministry of Territorial Administration of Armenia started an “umbrella” project – Partnerships for Implementation of Community Based Development Projects – aimed at mobilizing resources to address several major areas to reduce poverty in Armenia, such as rehabilitation of social infrastructure, increase public service accessibility and income generation in the poorest and most disadvantaged communities.