ARS Hearths of Hope Fundraiser Supports Displaced Artsakh Families
The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Western USA Regional Executive hosted a “Hearths of Hope” program fundraiser at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Hrayr and Emma Garabetian on September 21, 2025. The heartfelt gathering of supporters and friends successfully raised $80,000 to provide housing for displaced Artsakh families resettled in Armenia’s Shirak Province.
Distinguished guests included Arousyak Melkonian, ARS Central Executive Board (CEB) Chairperson, and her husband, Raffi Melkonian; Gaydzag Zetlian, member of the Central Executive Council of the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia; Dzovig Zetlian, Prelacy Executive Council member; and ARF Central Committee members Hilda Saliba, Anoush Chalian, and Bedig Kazandjian. They joined ARS Regional Executive and chapter representatives, community members, and donors in demonstrating collective commitment to the cause.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Aida Dimejian, member of the ARS of Western USA Hearths of Hope Committee. She emphasized that the program’s mission goes beyond simply building homes, stating that “these homes are not just walls and ceilings, but symbols of love, peace, and new beginnings,” even as displaced families hold on to their enduring hope of returning to Artsakh.
Vicky Marashlian, ARS of Western USA Regional Executive Vice-Chairperson and liaison to the Hearths of Hope Committee, reminded attendees that the ARS stood by Artsakh for over 30 years and that the Western Region pledged $100,000 for the program during the 73rd ARS International Convention two years ago. She expressed gratitude to the Garabetian family for hosting the fundraiser, the committee members and the chairperson of the committee Souzi Zerounian-Khanzadian, the ARS chapters for their contributions, and the major donors whose generosity will directly impact displaced families.
Guests also viewed an ARS CEB-produced video and slides highlighting the ongoing program. In her address, ARS CEB Chairperson Arousyak Melkonian drew a moving parallel between the organization’s current mission and its historic legacy. She recalled the ARS’s role more than a century ago in implementing the “One Gold Coin, One Child” program for Armenian Genocide orphans, reaffirming that today’s ARS continues to fulfill its responsibility to safeguard Armenians in crises. She further announced that during the 115th Anniversary celebrations in Armenia, the first homes in the Shirak Province’s Akhurik village will officially be presented to Artsakh families, underscoring the ARS’s long-term commitment.
The program also featured a special recitation by 14-year-old Leah Stepanian, who shared poetry dedicated to Shoushi, followed by soulful performances from Christine Hovhanesyan and Varant Avanesyan, whose songs evoked longing for ancestral lands.
The event was a chance for the participants to virtually transport to Armenia and Artsakh, reviving memories of the hardships endured by those – young and old – who had reluctantly escaped and those who feverishly toiled and continue to strive to help them. Helping Artsakh families rebuild their lives is a collective responsibility and the ARS continues to be at the forefront of efforts not only to provide the warmth of hearths, but also to restore hope for the future.