SERVICE ARMENIA 2026 CELEBRATES ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR

· August 21, 2026

Los Angeles, CA – From July 4 to July 23, 2026, a group of 11 young people traveled to Armenia for the Paros Foundation’s SERVICE Armenia program, spending three weeks volunteering, touring, and experiencing Armenian culture. The program welcomed participants ages 17 to 22 coming together to serve communities throughout the country.

During their three-week stay, the SERVICE Armenia group completed several projects supporting children, families, schools, and community organizations. Participants took children from the Yerevan Children’s Home and the Kharpert Home for Special Children on outings to amusement parks and playgrounds, providing them with an opportunity to enjoy a day of fun and activities outside of their facilities.

The group also completed renovation work at Knights of Vartan School 106, helping renovate the school’s third floor. In addition, participants distributed backpacks and shoes to children at the Debi Arach Children’s Center, packed and delivered groceries to families through the Groceries for Gyumri initiative, and repainted the playground at Meds Masrik Kindergarten.

One participant from the 2026 SERVICE Armenia group, Sevana Martin, stated “The service work we did made it hard for me to imagine going back to Armenia and not doing something similar.”

While another participant, Lori Hovsepian, said “I found the service projects to be extremely impactful because I was able to better understand the livelihoods of Armenian people living under difficult conditions. It sparked empathy within me to continue to serve my community.”

Alongside their service work, participants had the opportunity to travel throughout Armenia and experience the country’s historic, religious, and cultural sites. The program combines hands-on service with educational and cultural activities, allowing young people to develop a deeper connection to Armenia while giving back to communities in need.

For more than a decade, the SERVICE Armenia program has brought young people together from the diaspora to Armenia for meaningful service and cultural experiences. The program is open to young people ages 17 to 22, and welcomes both Armenian and non-Armenian participants who are interested in volunteering, exploring Armenia, and making a difference in the communities they visit. If you are interested in next summer’s program, please email us at peter@parosfoundation.org