Armenian-American Community Leaders Join Rep. Young Kim for Holiday Reception in Orange County

MISSION VIEJO, Calif. – Members of the Armenian-American community joined Congresswoman Young Kim for her holiday reception held on December 29 at Piccolino Ristorante. The gathering brought together more than 100 guests from across Orange County to mark the holiday season and welcome the New Year.

During the reception, Rep. Kim addressed attendees, extending her New Year’s wishes and expressing appreciation for the strong and longstanding relationship he shares with the Armenian-American community. She underscored her close ties with the Armenian National Committee of America and reaffirmed her commitment to working alongside the community on shared priorities rooted in justice, human rights, and democratic values.

As part of her remarks, Rep. Kim recognized community leader Garo Madenlian – long-time ANCA board member, activist and current ARF Western US Chairman—as well as rep. Young’s former staffer in Washington, Alex Keledjian for their continued dedication and service to the Armenian-American community, commending their leadership and civic engagement.

The event also served as a reflection of Rep Kim’s consistent support for Armenian-American issues. Just a few months ago, she was awarded the Legislator of the Year at the 2025 Gala Banquet of the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region, honoring her steadfast support of the Armenian Cause and her principled advocacy on issues of importance to the community.

Rep. Kim expressed her gratitude for the trust and partnership of the Armenian-American community and shared her enthusiasm for continuing to build strong relationships in the year ahead. She noted that she looks forward to deepening friendships and working collaboratively with community leaders and advocates in the new year to advance shared values rooted in justice, human rights, and civic responsibility.