By Roubina Kasbarian
(translated from Armenian)
San Francisco, Calif.- The ARS of Western USA Erepouni Chapter (established in
Oakland, California) organized the unique and memorable “Honoring Our Sisters in
Service” event, to honor volunteer women from 5 Armenian churches of Northern
California and 13 Armenian organizations, on Saturday March 22, 2025, at the San
Francisco Khatchadourian Armenian Center Saroyan Hall.
After enjoying an authentic Armenian meal, the program started with US, Armenian and
ARS anthems, which was followed by opening prayer by Reverend Fathers Krikor
Zakarian and Artsakh Badoyan.
The mistress of ceremonies for the event was Ungh. Victoria Markarian. After the
opening remarks, ARS Erepouni Chapter Chairperson Ungh. Nora Shirikian
acknowledged and thanked the ARS Regional Executive representative Ungh. Rita
Hintlian, and all others representing the various organizations. She noted that “March 8 th
is the International Women’s Day, and specially in Armenia, the month of March is
celebrated as women’s month”. She continued saying “we will be honoring 37 of our
sisters, who have been exemplary volunteers”. And continued, “I thank you in advance
for your service and wish you to be healthy and stay determined in your endeavors. Let
us work hand-in-hand to be the good examples for the new generations to follow in
these lands away from our homeland. Let us elevate the diaspora to be able to assist
the homeland and pass the torch on”.
The event also had entertainment performed by the youth. The Oakland youth Apricot
Seed Dance Ensemble danced, while Raffi Hourdajian played selections from
Khatchadourian and Beethoven on the piano, followed by Nicholas Skokan on the
duduk.
The keynote speaker was Ungh. Ani Setrakian Yeni-Komshian. She gave a historic view
on volunteerism, specially by women, covering the history before and after the
Armenian Genocide, as Armenian diasporas were organized throughout the world. She
stressed that “we have to pass the volunteering baton to the future generations to
endure as a nation”.
The ARS Regional Executive remarks were delivered by Ungh. Rita Hintlian. She stated
“today’s event is a positive proof of the work the ARS does to preserve our identity and
to persevere as a nation. The organization knows how to gather and appreciate
volunteers. She continued – “your presence here is proof that the Bay Area is in good
hands”. She passed on her best wishes for success to Erepouni Chapter and all other
organizations.
Attendees were filled with joy and high spirits as they departed.
