A New Generation Moving Forward: ARS Western USA Celebrates 115 Years of Humanitarian Service
The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Western USA proudly announces a half-day seminar on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, titled “A New Generation Moving Forward,” commemorating 115 years of humanitarian service and intergenerational resilience. Admission is free.
For over a century, the ARS has embodied the spirit of volunteerism—one generation uplifting the next through service, compassion, and community engagement. On the heels of a global celebration in Armenia Oct. 15 to 25, 2025, ARS Western USA’s program honors that legacy while highlighting how the organization continues to evolve through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to social progress.
Nov. 1 Program Overview
Panel I: Intergenerational Tolerance
Nora Chitilian, MS, LMFT, & Alique Kalachian
A dialogue on understanding and collaboration between generations within the Armenian community, fostering empathy and resilience across age groups.
Presentation & Tour: ARS Social Services and Counseling Offices
Introduction by Melanie Vartabedian
A guided introduction to the newly remodeled ARS Western USA Social Services offices and Child, Youth & Family Guidance Center, located within the Regional Headquarters. Attendees will explore how ARS continues to expand its reach through enhanced facilities and services supporting families, seniors, and youth.
Break for box lunch and networking.
Panel II: Evolution of Public Relations & Marketing
Lara Kazandjian, Executive VP, Strategy at OMG23
Arpi Marachelian, Publicity Principal, Original Series at Amazon MGM Studios
Tamar Mashigian, PR & Marketing Consultant
Hear how three generations of Armenian women have built impactful careers at the intersection of storytelling, technology, and community service, and how volunteerism has shaped each speaker’s professional journey.
About the Armenian Relief Society of Western USA
Founded in New York in 1910, the Armenian Relief Society is a nonprofit, nonsectarian, philanthropic organization dedicated to serving the humanitarian, social, and educational needs of Armenians and others in the community. The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Western USA was officially established in Glendale, California in 1984, although individual ARS chapters on the West Coast were established much earlier, starting with Fresno (1915) and Los Angeles (1918).
Today, 24 chapters in California, Arizona, Nevada and Texas are part of the ARS-WUSA make up the region with over 1,200 members. The headquarters are located in Glendale, California with social services and mental health offices. The region operates a day care and 11 one-day schools. Scholarships are provided to graduating high school seniors, and university students.
Through its social and mental health services, youth programs, and cultural initiatives, ARS of Western USA continues to empower generations to serve with compassion, resilience, and purpose.