Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Andrew Antaramian, Staff Writer
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have always been great resources for disadvantaged and needy people. These organizations provide financial resources, support, and other outreach programs to people in need. Many people all over the world rely on NGOs for aid and help in their time of need. They are typically geared to one specific area. There are numerous organizations that help people fight poverty and then there are other organizations that act as an advocacy group for people that need representation. It is wonderful to explore and discover NGOs that are actively helping the Armenian community. These organizations are essential because they provide vital resources for Armenians of all ages and help them through troubling times.
Mer Doon
www.mer-doon.org
Mer Doon [Our Home] is an NGO that helps young Armenian women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Mer Doon is a vital organization because they help out numerous women who otherwise would be otherwise uncared for. Established in 2005, they opened their first home in 2006 in Etchmiadzin, Armenia. Mer Doon provides comfortable living facilities for women who have outgrown their orphanages and also provides care and aid for those who come from a disadvantaged environment. Residents of Mer Doon learn life skills, social skills, and even receive an education in foreign languages and a vocation. This institution benefits many and is essential for the community.
Armenia Tree Project
www.armeniatreeproject.com
The Armenia Tree Project’s (ATP) mission is to create and implement programs that are geared towards the fight against deforestation and environmental loss. ATP also creates programs that are designed to revitalize urban and rural communities by planting trees at parks, public areas and other various sites throughout Armenia. There are many areas in Armenia that have been severely neglected and are in need of environmental revitalization. Many of Armenia’s trees are harvested for heating purposes due to the inadequacy of alternative fuel resources. They also promote environmental education and advocacy by creating youth programs that help to better understand and appreciate a healthy ecosystem. ATP is a vital organization that provides a great service to Armenia in hopes of reversing a tragic trend. They recently celebrated their 15th anniversary.
Fund for Armenian Relief
www.farusa.com
The Fund For Armenian Relief (FAR), provides short-term emergency relief for Armenian families in need. FAR implements various programs that promote economic growth and social development for people in Armenia. Since its inception after the devastating earthquake in 1988, FAR has helped many people in all different age groups. FAR not only helps people in Armenia, but they also reach out to many Armenians all over the Diaspora. One of FAR’s main goals is to provide hope and help, which will ensure a brighter future for Armenians all over the world. FAR also has the goal of preparing Armenian youth and professionals to one day lead and drive Armenia’s democratic state. Its headquarters is in New York and they have three full-time offices in Armenia and Karabagh. One of FAR’s recent projects is to provide safe drinking water to rural villages and provide irrigation resources to arid farmlands. Fund For Armenian Relief is a major asset in the Armenian community.