No products in the cart.

Donations to The Paros Foundation Projects for Prosperity are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. To sponsor a project through The Paros Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 organization (Tax ID 20-5094630), or learn more about specific projects in need of funding, please contact us using the information below.

Contacts

2217 5th Street

Berkeley CA 94710

info@parosfoundation.org

(310) 400 9061

Project Tag: Available

Grey Winter New Collection Fashion Website Banner-6

Groceries for Gyumri 2026-2027

Groceries for Gyumri 2026 – 2027

Read Updates

Description

Following the 1988 Spitak Earthquake, thousands of people were left homeless in the city of Gyumri. Many of these families took refuge in the overseas shipping containers (domiks) that were shipped into Armenia loaded with humanitarian relief supplies. Although more than a quarter century has passed since the earthquake, this depressive reality still remains. Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.

During his visit to Armenia several summers ago Dustin Hochmuth, one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 participants, and several of his peers, witnessed these horrible conditions and decided to assemble packets for 10 families in dire need of everyday necessities and non-perishable food items. This effort was led by one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 coordinators, Stephanie Nersesyan. Following the success of that effort, Paros has continued implementing this project on a regular basis.

Our goal is to help 200 families in need between the years of 2026 and 2027. Each packet will cost $50 and will include basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items such as rice, flour, sugar, salt, oil, and pasta. The packets will also include fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and canned meats.  Donations in any amount will help this important cause

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

July 2026

End Date

Gallery Images


20250628_144705
Packing groceries.


IMG-20220708-WA0067
Delivering groceries for families in need.


20250630_153217
Groceries arrived at family home.

The Need

Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.

Short Term Impact

In the short term, 200 families will receive packets filled with basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items and fresh food items.

Long Term Impact

In long term, the Armenian diaspora will be exposed to the harsh living conditions in Gyumri through this important project.

Sponsors Benefits

All project sponsors will be recognized on all relevant press regarding this project and on The Paros Foundation’s website. The Paros Foundation can arrange a visit to Gyumri when you are in Armenia.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”108585″]

Updates: Images & Information

June 25, 2026
June 25, 2026

PHOTO-2026-06-25-19-12-21

July 6, 2026
July 6, 2026

July 9, 2026
July 9, 2026

July 9, 2026
July 9, 2026


Previous
Next
June 25, 2026

Thank you to Fr. Ghevond and the parishioners of St. Sarkis Armenian Church (Dallas, Texas), for making a meaningful difference for families in Gyumri!

Their group helped assemble twelve food packs for Groceries for Gyumri before distributing them to families living in the domiks in Gyumri.

July 9, 2026

With the help of donors and SERVICE Armenia 2026 participants, 50 food & supplies packs were assembled and distributed to impoverished families in Gyumri. SERVICE Armenia participants hand delivered some of the packs to families of Gyumri

Copy of Grey Winter New Collection Fashion Website Banner

Scholarship for a Sustainable Future: Anahit G. – Anahit T. – Araksya A.

Scholarship for a Sustainable Future: Anahit G. – Anahit T. – Araksya A.

Description

 Nor Luyce works with young girls, ages 14-17, from two local orphanages and/or from poverty stricken families from Gyumri, Armenia. Under the direction of their Executive Director, Shoghik Mikayelyan, the program provides their mentees with positive roles models and emotional support. The reduction of isolation is provided by mentors and by field trips, which expose the children to various work and educational settings. In addition, Nor Luyce’s program emphasizes the development of educational and career plans. They are now at the stage of either beginning or continuing to help implement each older child’s plan for higher education. Each child has also either completed or is in the process of completing a career plan, which includes the most appropriate type and place of higher education.

Nor Luyce is trying to provide the following young girls from Gyumri, with a scholarship that would reduce their out of pocket costs towards their education:

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

2026

Anahit G.
Anahit Gevorgyan was born on December 10, 2006, in Gyumri, Shirak region, into a family of five living on limited means – her father’s military pension and her grandmother’s disability allowance.

When Anahit joined Nor Luyce NGO in 2021, she was a very different young girl. She struggled to be heard and often expressed herself through impatience and conflict. Listening felt difficult, and relationships were challenging. But what she found in Nor Luyce was something she had never experienced before – a safe, supportive environment where she was seen, guided, and believed in. Through mentorship and consistent support, she learned to listen, to reflect, and to communicate with respect and confidence. She grew into someone who not only understands others – but truly cares for them. Today, Anahit’s story has come full circle. She is no longer only a mentee – she has become a mentor. Anahit now supports a younger girl in the same program, offering her guidance, patience, and encouragement.

Anahit is currently a second-year student in the Department of Social Work at Shirak State University. Her dream is to stand beside those who feel unseen and unsupported – because she knows what that feels like. Her family is unable to afford her annual tuition. Without support, Anahit may be forced to pause her education – and with it, the path she has worked so hard to build.

By supporting Anahit, you are not just helping one student stay in university. You are investing in a future social worker, a mentor, and a changemaker.

Scholarship needed: $1,130

Anahit T.
Anahit Tadevosyan was born on April 15, 2007, in the village of Goghovit, Shirak region. The family consists of 5 people: father, mother, brother, sister and herself. The only workers in the house are the father and brother. Her father works in construction, and her brother is a furniture maker, but neither has a stable main job.

She was included in the program of the Nor Luyce NGO in 2021. Currently, Anahit is a Nor Luyce alum. Before participating in the program, Anahit was a closed person, avoided contact with people, especially large crowds, but thanks to Nor Luyce, she got rid of these problems and made new friends. Now she communicates more freely with people and has a large circle of friends. Nor Luyce also helped Anahit with her professional orientation.

Anahit was admitted to the service department of Shirak State University this year. She currently has a problem with tuition fees, as her family is in a difficult social situation and will not be able to pay her tuition fees.

Scholarship needed: $1,600

Araksya A.
Araksya Avagyan was born on December 24, 2007, in the village of Kamo, Shirak region – a place where opportunities are limited, and resilience is a necessity. She comes from a family facing deep financial hardship. Her father is currently unable to work due to serious health issues and is undergoing treatment. The only person who works is her mom. She works as a nanny at the local kindergarten.

When Araksya joined Nor Luyce NGO in 2022, she was a shy and reserved girl who struggled to express herself. She often held her thoughts inside, unsure of her voice and her place in the world. But Nor Luyce became the turning point in her life. In a supportive and empowering environment, Araksya began to open up. She learned to speak with confidence, to connect with others, and to believe in her own worth. She built friendships, developed new skills, and discovered a strength within herself she did not know existed. As she shares, Nor Luyce gave her more than she ever imagined – it became the beginning of her journey toward self-discovery.

Today, Araksya has taken a major step forward – she has been admitted to the Service Department at Shirak State University. For her, this is more than education; it is a path toward stability, independence, and the ability to support her family in the future.
But right now, that path is at risk because her family cannot afford her tuition fees. Without support, Araksya may be forced to give up her education – despite all the strength, growth, and determination she has shown. By supporting Araksya, you are giving her the chance to continue becoming the person she has fought so hard to be.

Scholarship needed: $1,300

https://youtu.be/QeZljFgGm1Uhttps://youtu.be/Y-XpgDzCQkohttps://youtu.be/cY57AsM4X_Q

The Need

Children living in orphanages and/or within poverty stricken families are often isolated and may lack the knowledge, adult support and financial ability necessary to make appropriate life choices. As a consequence, many of these children are deprived from the opportunity to pursue their education. The frustration of these deficits in addition to the expectation that they will not be able to afford additional education may even lead to a lack of motivation to seek the knowledge and support needed. By being given the opportunity to pursue educational goals, they will be able to secure job opportunities, a good future and a successful life.

Short Term Impact

Anahit G. – Anahit T. – Araksya A., who all currently live in Gyumri, will receive the financial support they need, in a form of a scholarship, covering the costs of their college tuition, uniform, books, stationaries, winter clothes and transportation.

Long Term Impact

The long-term goal is that four girls, being given the opportunity to continue pursuing their educational goals at the university level will have a reasonable chance to become self-sufficient member of Armenian society and have a successful lives.

Sponsors Benefits

Sponsors will be recognized on both the Nor Luyce and Paros Foundation websites. Donors will be given regular progress reports on the girls’ progress during their university studies.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”108445″]
Scholarship for Future

Scholarship for a Sustainable Future: Nvard M. – Zoya S.

Scholarship for a Sustainable Future: Nvard M. – Zoya S.

Description

Nor Luyce works with young girls, ages 14-17, from two local orphanages and/or from poverty stricken families from Gyumri, Armenia. Under the direction of their Executive Director, Shoghik Mikayelyan, the program provides their mentees with positive roles models and emotional support. The reduction of isolation is provided by mentors and by field trips, which expose the children to various work and educational settings. In addition, Nor Luyce’s program emphasizes the development of educational and career plans. They are now at the stage of either beginning or continuing to help implement each older child’s plan for higher education. Each child has also either completed or is in the process of completing a career plan, which includes the most appropriate type and place of higher education.

Nor Luyce is trying to provide the following young girls from Gyumri, with a scholarship that would reduce their out of pocket costs towards their education:

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Gyumri

Start Date

2026

Nvard M.
Nvard Minasyan was born on July 30, 2007, in Gyumri, Shirak region, into a small family of four. Her mother, a dedicated teacher at Shirak State University’s high school and is the only steady income earner. Her father takes on occasional daily work as a construction worker whenever possible. With a monthly family income of just 228,400 AMD, resources are limited, but Nvard’s dreams have always been bigger than her circumstances.

She joined Nor Luyce NGO in 2019 and is now a proud mentee in the graduate program. When Nvard first became part of the program, she struggled with insecurity, had difficulty expressing her thoughts and emotions, and often felt unsure about herself in new situations. Through mentorship, support, and a nurturing environment, Nvard blossomed. She gained confidence, developed strong communication skills, overcame her fears, and became proactive and engaged in her community. For Nvard, Nor Luyce was more than a program – it was a space of self-discovery. She learned to understand her personality, clarify her interests, and make informed choices about her future. The program gave her motivation, direction, and the belief that she could shape her own path.

This year, Nvard achieved a major milestone: she was admitted to the Department of Computer Science at the American University of Armenia. Thanks to an incredible 90% scholarship, her tuition is mostly covered. Yet she still faces a significant challenge: the cost of dorm accommodation is beyond her family’s reach. Without support, she risks being unable to live near campus and fully engage in her studies. Your support can transform Nvard’s life.

By helping cover her dorm fees, you are not just assisting with living costs – you are empowering a young woman who has already overcome challenges, embraced growth, and is ready to step into a future full of potential, innovation, and impact.

Scholarship needed: $5,700

Zoya S.
Zoya Saribekyan was born on November 5, 2007, in Gyumri, Shirak region, into a large family of eight. Her household is supported by her mother, a physical education and healthy lifestyle teacher at Gyumri College of Economics, and her father, who works in the eco-parking service. With a monthly family income of just 350,000 AMD, resources are limited, but Zoya has never let that define her dreams.

She joined Nor Luyce NGO in 2023 and is now a mentee in the organization’s Higher Education Phase. Before joining, Zoya struggled with her emotions – she was sensitive, often hot-tempered, and found it hard to manage her reactions. Through mentorship, guidance, and the supportive environment of Nor Luyce, Zoya has transformed. She has gained confidence, developed strong communication skills, and achieved personal growth that stretches far beyond academics. For Zoya, Nor Luyce is more than a program – it is a warm, caring space that has become a cherished part of her life.

This year, Zoya reached an important milestone: she was admitted to the Intercultural Communication (English) Department of Yerevan State Linguistic University. Her dream is to build a future where she can connect cultures, break barriers, and use her voice to make a difference. Currently, her family cannot afford her annual tuition. Without support, Zoya risks putting her education – and her potential – on hold.

By contributing to Zoya’s education, you are not just helping a student stay in university – you are investing in a young woman who has already overcome personal challenges, embraced growth, and is now ready to step into a future of opportunity and impact. You are giving Zoya the chance to turn her potential into a reality – and to inspire others along the way.

Scholarship needed: $1,800

https://youtu.be/9142vWV47_Ahttps://youtu.be/kldvKlEhvuw

The Need

Children living in orphanages and/or within poverty stricken families are often isolated and may lack the knowledge, adult support and financial ability necessary to make appropriate life choices. As a consequence, many of these children are deprived from the opportunity to pursue their education. The frustration of these deficits in addition to the expectation that they will not be able to afford additional education may even lead to a lack of motivation to seek the knowledge and support needed. By being given the opportunity to pursue educational goals, they will be able to secure job opportunities, a good future and a successful life.

Short Term Impact

Nvard M. – Zoya S., who all currently live in Gyumri, will receive the financial support they need, in a form of a scholarship, covering the costs of their college tuition, uniform, books, stationaries, winter clothes and transportation.

Long Term Impact

The long-term goal is that four girls, being given the opportunity to continue pursuing their educational goals at the university level will have a reasonable chance to become self-sufficient member of Armenian society and have a successful lives.

Sponsors Benefits

Sponsors will be recognized on both the Nor Luyce and Paros Foundation websites. Donors will be given regular progress reports on the girls’ progress during their university studies.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”108378″]
293625689_1968771126667077_782513439731523034_n-1440×959

Orphaned Children’s Day Excursion 30

Orphaned Children Day Excursion 30

Read Updates

Description

More than 1,200 children live in Armenia’s 15 orphanages. These facilities provide for the children’s basic needs, but their limited budgets do not allow these children to participate in visits to popular historical sites, amusement parks, concerts, or attend cultural events.

Armenia’s orphan children should have the opportunity to experience popular cultural events, exhibits, and excursions. Many different activities and excursions can be organized for these children. The extent of the activity or trip is directly related to the sponsorship amount. For sponsorship amounts between $350 -$750 approximately 20 children and an appropriate number of chaperons will be able participate in a memorable activity. Please consider supporting multiple excursions for these children.

The Paros Foundation staff and volunteers will organize and oversee the excursion/activity. Opportunities to sponsor excursions for orphanages serving both disabled and non-disabled children exist. Whenever possible, our staff will work with the destination for the excursion to secure group pricing and/or discounts.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

Immediately

The Need

Armenia’s orphanages generally are able to provide for their children’s basic care, but limited funding does not allow these children to visit museums, historical sites and popular cultural events. Allowing a child a few hours of recreation and/or entertainment as a regular child greatly enhances his/her outlook on life and reduces the emotional complexes of being an orphan.

Short Term Impact

The short-term impact of this project will be the immediate employment of a bus driver, money being spent in Armenia’s local economy and most importantly the emotional and social benefits for 20 orphan children.

Long Term Impact

This project has considerable long-term emotional, educational and psychological benefits for the children, as they will be able to participate in activities that are above and beyond basic existence in an orphanage.

Sponsors Benefits

Your support of this project will be recognized at the relevant Orphanage, your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website and in appropriate press related to this important project. The Paros Foundation stands ready to help you arrange a visit to the care facility when you are in Armenia.
[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”108215″]

IMG_5385

Lernakert Culture House Roof Renovation

Lernakert Culture House Roof Renovation

Read Updates

Description

Lernakert is a small village in Armenia’s Shirak province, home to 1,413 residents and a vibrant community life centered around its culture house & community center. In recent years, community groups and local partners have renovated the building and created after‑school clubs and a game room where elders and young people gather to play chess, backgammon, and checkers.

These small but meaningful projects have improved children’s daily lives and restored hope among villagers. Today, Lernakert urgently needs support to renovate the roof of the Lernakert Culture House so it can continue to serve as a safe, welcoming hub for cultural events, education, and community gatherings for generations to come.

Region

Shirak

City / Village

Lernakert

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Three months after start date

Gallery Images


IMG_5391


IMG_5388


IMG_5393

The Need

The village of Lernakert is in need of funds to renovate the roof of the Lernakert Culture House so it can remain a safe, welcoming space for cultural events, education, and gatherings for years to come.

Short Term Impact

In the short term a local crew will be hired to complete renovation work on the roof renovation, creating jobs for the community. Residents will have a warm and safe place to attend year-round.

Long Term Impact

Renovating the Lernakert Culture House roof will secure a safe, year‑round gathering space where children, youth, and elders can access educational programs, cultural events, and community services. By preserving the dedicated cultural hub in Lernakert, the project will empower local residents to sustain after‑school clubs and community initiatives, nurture local talent and traditions, and create a more hopeful, resilient future for the next generation.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this project will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website, on a plaque at the Lernakert Culture House, and in appropriate press related to this important project. Visits can be arranged to Lernakert Village for sponsors during their visits to Armenia. 

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”63098″]
Sporting-Goods-for-Village-Schools-2-Hatsik

Sporting Goods for Village Schools

Sporting Goods for Village Schools

Read Updates

Description

For many of Armenia’s most isolated and poverty stricken regions, sporting equipment is difficult to come by and expensive to buy. By supporting this project you will help thousands of children attending schools in the poverty stricken villages throughout Armenia. Although schools in these villages may have a few sporting goods, often times, the kids are playing with items that are old, unsafe and unusable.
Our goal is to purchase and distribute a variety of sporting goods and equipment to village schools and give these students the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, play individual and team sports and exercise. In addition, the completion of this project will help to promote health and fitness.
The variety of sporting goods will include volleyballs, volleyball nets, basketballs, basketball hoops, soccer balls, soccer nets, wrestling mats, jump ropes, hula hoops, assortment of weights, tennis rackets, tennis balls and some gymnastics equipment based on the needs of individual schools.

Region

All

City / Village

All

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

One month after start date

Gallery Images


All-old-unsafe-and-unusable-sporting-goods-will-be-replaced-with-newer-and-safer-equipment-for-students-to-use.
All old, unsafe and unusable sporting goods will be replaced with newer and safer equipment for students to use.


Many-of-the-sporting-goods-are-unsafe-and-unusable.
Many of the sporting goods are unsafe and unusable.


Worn-out-volleyball-net.
Worn out volleyball net.

The Need

Children living in Armenia’s poverty stricken villages cannot afford basic toys and sporting goods that can provide them with hours of entertainment and good physical exercise. This effort would help meet this need.

Short Term Impact

Students at village schools will immediately benefit from use of the new equipment as part of the education and overall fitness.

Long Term Impact

In the long term the lives of several thousand children throughout the villages of Armenia will be positively affected. This project will not only promote good health through providing them with a chance to exercise, but will also help to increase good team work skills through team sports, and give them an opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to sponsor the Sporting Goods for Village Schools project will be recognized in appropriate press related to this important project and your name listed as a sponsor on the Paros Foundation website. The Paros Foundation will happily arrange a visit to the village schools that have benefited from this project.
[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”84254″]

484534187_1069395838563484_3404413057158711616_n

Tech Aid for Ghoghanj Children’s Center

Tech Aid for Ghoghanj Children’s Center

Read Updates

Description

The Ghoghanj Children’s Center provides critical after-school and summer programs for socially and economically vulnerable children. Each year, the Kentron and Nor Nork centers serve approximately 170 students from extremely low-income families who would otherwise have no access to academic support or enrichment opportunities. For these children, the Center is not only a place to learn, but a safe and encouraging environment where they receive daily instruction, creative arts education, mentorship, and the emotional support needed to grow into confident and capable young adults.

Students take part in classes such as English, Russian, computer studies, design, painting, theater, and dance, gaining the skills and self-confidence necessary to succeed in school and build a brighter future. Technology plays a vital role in this process, yet the computer labs at both centers rely on machines that are 10–11 years old. While they have been carefully maintained and repeatedly upgraded over the years, they have reached the end of their useful life and can no longer meet the educational demands of the students.

Sponsorship of this project will help provide 12 new desktop computers for each center (24 total), giving students reliable access to modern technology, strengthening their academic experience, and ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.

Region

Yerevan / ÔµÖ€Ö‡Õ¡Õ¶

City / Village

Kentron & Nor Nork

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Gallery Images


20250709_154938


578789142_1266514275518305_1761602778164846562_n

The Need

Technology plays a critical role in modern education and future employment. Both centers currently have small computer labs that the children rely on for learning essential digital skills.

Despite years of repairs and upgrades, these machines are now far beyond their functional lifespan. They are slow, unreliable, and no longer capable of supporting the educational programs the children need.

Short Term Impact

24 desktop computers will be locally obtained and distributed to both the Kentron and Nork Nork locations of the Ghoghanj Children’s Center. 

Long Term Impact

Your support will directly empower 170 at-risk children every year by giving them access to the tools they need to learn, create, and succeed in today’s digital world.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and be recognized with a plaque at the Centers and on the Center’s website and in their printed materials. Visits to the Ghoghanj Children’s Centers can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”107745″]

Updates: Images & Information

July 15, 2026
July 15, 2026

IMG_2040

IMG_2044


Previous
Next
July 14, 2026

A heartfelt thank you to the Oktanyan Family for visiting the Ghoghanj Children’s Center and generously funding nine new laptop computers for the students.

Their gift will give children access to the technology they need to learn new skills, complete schoolwork, and explore new opportunities. We’re grateful for their commitment to investing in Armenia’s future.

Help us continue equipping the Ghoghanj Children’s Center with the technology its students deserve. 

autism_center_banner_1600x600_nodistortion

Goris Autism Center

Goris Autism Center

Read Updates

Description

As stated by the World Health organization, it is estimated that worldwide about 1 in 100 children have autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition, which involves challenges with socialization, narrow interests and repetitive behavior. Autism is a spectrum because it manifests itself differently in everyone, resulting in varying levels of needed support. This means that although on average children can be diagnosed between the ages of 2-3; some children can be diagnosed as young as 18 months while others may not receive a diagnosis until well into adulthood. Additionally, boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

The cause of ASD has not yet been identified; however, modern science indicates that genetics and environmental factors play a significant role. Some people strongly believe that ASD is a disease. However, a disease typically has a known cause (such as bacteria or viruses), ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, and is not something that can be cured, rather be managed and supported. ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.

Diagnosing ASD usually involves multiple processes: developmental monitoring, screening, and comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. Instead of self-diagnosing your child, asking for advice from relatives, or hoping your child will grow out of certain behaviors, it is crucial to seek medical advice and intervene as early as possible. The sooner the parents find out about the diagnosis, the better the developmental outcome will be. Pediatricians typically assess children’s developmental progress during routine well-child visits at 18 and 24 months, even if no symptoms are evident. These assessments involve observing the child and discussing family history.

One of the most common treatments is behavioral therapy.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research and evidence-based therapy that looks to improved children with ASD’s social, communication, and learning skills through positive reinforcement. It can additionally support greater independence for activities of daily living such as eating, getting dressed, going to the toilet, bathing, etc. Additionally, there are some other interventions which can also be effective such as speech-language therapy (helps individuals with ASD to improve both verbal and non-verbal communication), physical therapy (help with movement and balance, enhancing motor skills and overall physical coordination), occupational therapy (helps with fine motor skills such as utensil eating and writing) and much more. Some children may need access to all these therapies and more, while others will benefit from only one or a few. Each child’s circumstance will vary depending on where they are on the spectrum.  

The municipality of Goris stands ready to assist and partner in this important effort for the children of Goris. 

Region

Syunik

City / Village

Goris & Surrounding Villages

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

18 months from start

Gallery Images


IMG_7720
The building that has been identified for purchase to facilitate the new autism center in central Goris.

The Need

In the communities of Goris and surrounding villages, children with autism do not receive any specialized services or therapy because a specialized autism center does not exist.  Once this center is funded and open, local therapists will receive specialized training to offer a full array of therapy for the more than 200 children with autism in the area. 

Short Term Impact

In the short term, a facility will be purchased and expanded to serve as the autism center.  This will create a modest boost in the local economy as all labor and materials will be purchased locally.  Therapists will also receive specialized training and be prepared to begin working at the center with these children.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, children with autism will receive the needed therapy and support they need to live their lives to the fullest.  Families will be given the tools they need to facilitate better support for their children.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project. Visits to the center  can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”106027″]

Updates: Images & Information

Jun 10, 2025
Jun 10, 2025

33762886-c512-4e53-be83-204a7470203d

77808b05-ea6c-4005-8c6f-763c2009b6eb (1)

September 16, 2025
September 16, 2025

October 25, 2025
October 25, 2025

IMG_1745

IMG_1735

IMG_1750


Previous
Next
June 10, 2025

Now with school out, our crew has begun the work to renovate the school’s science lab and storage rooms.  

July 25, 2025

Thanks to the successful fundraising efforts of John and June Mangassarian and the generosity of their family and friends, this project is being expanded to include the reconstruction of the school’s teacher’s lounge and the principal’s office.  In addition, school supplies for the displaced children from Artsakh who now attend the school will be purchased and provided for the upcoming school year.  Finally, a critical shortage of books for the school’s library will also be addressed as part of this expanded project with the assistance of the Armenian Educational Foundation.  

November 7, 2025

The school science laboratory renovation has now been completed. With the assistance of the government, essential laboratory equipment has been provided. Classes have officially begun, and students are now actively attending laboratory classes and utilizing the new instruments as part of their science education. 

DSC_2351-e1567727518625

Jobs for People w/Disabilities

Jobs for People with Disabilities

Read Updates

Description

For 17 years, Unison NGO for Support of People with Special Needs has been a leading advocate for the rights, inclusion, and independence of people with disabilities in Armenia. Through programs focused on accessibility, inclusive education, and employment, Unison works to remove barriers and ensure people with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, work, and thrive within their communities.

Today, Unison is helping create life-changing employment opportunities through a partnership with a diamond-processing company committed to inclusive hiring. The company plans to employ up to 20–25 individuals with disabilities and is adapting its facilities to ensure accessibility, while Unison provides guidance and connects qualified candidates with these opportunities.

These are real opportunities in an inclusive workplace where people with disabilities can work, grow, and thrive with dignity and independence.

Your support will help Unison continue creating accessible workplaces, expanding employment opportunities, and empowering people with disabilities across Armenia. Every donation helps build a more inclusive future.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

All

Start Date

Immediately

End Date

Gallery Images


10570-e1567727733434
Unison has placed hundreds of people with disabilities into meaningful employment opportunities.


DSC_2423-e1567727722702
Armenia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations has several people with disabilities employed thanks to the efforts of the Unison NGO.


13612-e1567727707752
There is no limit to what a person with a disability can accomplish.

The Need

One of the most important on-going projects of Unison is promotion of employment for PWDs. However, in January 2019 Unison was suddenly deprived of the state support for this project. In spite of the absence of government and/orgrant support, Unison has continued serving young job seekers with disabilities. 9 PWDs have been placed to jobs since the beginning of the year, but needs the balance of funding to continue this important work through the end of the year.

Short Term Impact

In the near term, Unison’s efforts to help secure employment for PWDs will continue.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, because of Unison’s work, PWDs will continue to work, support their families and become contributing members of society. In addition, PWD in the work force will significantly contribute to a change in perceptions and bias toward PWDs.

Sponsors Benefits

All sponsors to this project will be listed on The Paros Foundation website, Unison’s website and in any appropriate press related to this important project. Visitors to Armenia can visit this project.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”63088″]
White Beige Minimalist Photo Collage Wraparound Mug

Med-Aid Armenia: Impact Healthcare

Med-Aid Armenia: Impact Healthcare

Read Updates

Description

Armenia’s government has prioritized basic primary healthcare as an area that must be improved.  Simultaneously, Armenia is working towards implementing a plan for universal healthcare.  However, across Armenia’s remote and impoverished regions, many residents face overwhelming challenges in accessing even basic medical services. Preventable and treatable conditions often go unaddressed simply because healthcare is either too far away or too costly.

To help change this reality, and help build the foundation for Armenia’s improvements in the healthcare delivery system, The Paros Foundation launched Med-Aid Armenia, which is dedicated to delivering essential medical care, supplies, and support to those most in need, in addition to helping lay foundational blocks upon which to help change the overall system. 

Sponsorship of this initiative will directly fund the purchase of basic medical equipment, supplies, and medicine necessary for our outreach efforts, and help support system wide efforts to help Armenia reach her healthcare system goals.  In-kind donations of these materials are also gratefully accepted. Below is a current list of our fundraising needs.

In addition, we are seeking medical professionals—including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists—to volunteer their skills and assist our teams in conducting health screenings and providing fundamental medical care in underserved areas during our Med-Aid annual trip to Armenia. 

Together, we can bring hope, healing, and healthier futures to Armenia’s most vulnerable communities.

Region

Throughout Armenia

City / Village

Throughout Armenia

Start Date

October 2025

End Date

December 2027

The Need

Armenia’s government is working towards making significant changes in Armenia’s healthcare delivery system, but needs significant assistance in reaching basic benchmarks.  Access to healthcare in Armenia’s remote and impoverished areas is scarce and often unaffordable, leading to preventable medical issues. Residents urgently need basic medical aid to protect their health and prevent future complications.

Short Term Impact

In the short term, essential equipment and medical supplies will be provided to clinics in impoverished areas for patient care, while continuing education will be offered to medical staff at several partner clinics across Armenia.

Long Term Impact

In the long term, through piloting meaningful evidence based changes to the healthcare delivery system, Armenia’s healthcare system will be able to benefit its citizens. By bringing consistent medical care, new equipment and updated methods to Armenia’s remote and impoverished villages, this program will help reduce preventable health issues and improve long-term well-being. As the initiative grows, repeat visits will expand access to healthcare and strengthen the overall health of these communities.

Sponsors Benefits

Your donation to sponsor the Med-Aid Armenia will be recognized on The Paros Foundation website and in all appropriate press related to this important project.

[vp_give_donor_wall
donors_per_page=12
show_total=false
show_modal=true
form_id=”105068″]