ARS Roubina Chapter: 40th Anniversary Luncheon Celebration

The ARS Roubina Chapter (of San Diego) proudly presents “40 Years of Giving”, a 40th anniversary luncheon celebration, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., at the Vintana Wine & Dine venue in Escondido, California. RSVP call or text Ungh. Rima at (858) 945-8174 or Ungh. Hygan at (760) 717-7263.

Forty years ago, a visionary group of Armenian women in San Diego—including Terry Minasian and Aznive Sabounjian—recognized a need within their community. While an Armenian church existed, there was no women-led philanthropic organization dedicated to serving both local and global Armenian causes.

Inspired by the international mission of the Armenian Relief Society, these pioneering women founded the San Diego “Roubina” Chapter, named after Sofi Areshian-Ohanchanian’s nickname. Their legacy of compassion and service has flourished for four decades in “Roubina” Chapter members.

Over the years, the chapter has raised money for different ARS-led fundraisers including funds to assist Los Angeles County fire victims, Artsakh Displaced Families, Hot Meals program for Lebanon and Syria, and scholarships to college students with financial need. Beyond the chapter’s ongoing philanthropic efforts, the chapter left a lasting mark on San Diego by establishing the first Armenian Friday School, a weekly program that nurtured cultural education for many years. They also support organizations and events in San Diego that align with their mission and values, strengthening the community’s cultural fabric.

Sustaining and growing membership has not always been easy in a smaller Armenian community. Many individuals support multiple organizations. Yet it is precisely this spirit of collaboration that has kept the chapter strong, vibrant, and resilient. The ARS serves the social, health, and welfare needs of the community, and promotes the Armenian language and culture.

The ARS “Roubina” Chapter is honored to invite community members to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the San Diego ARS with an afternoon of reflection, celebration, and community spirit as they honor the remarkable work of the past and look ahead with renewed commitment to serving our local and global community.

The event will be held under the auspices of the ARS of Western USA, Regional Executive on Sunday, October 5 from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a four-course meal, followed by an award ceremony and dancing celebration. Tickets need to be purchased in advance. Please RSVP by September 27 with Hygan by calling or texting (760) 717-7263.