The AYF Juniors Gaidzag Chapter has officially joined the ARS Western USA Fallen Heroes Children program—an initiative that provides yearly financial support to the children of Armenia’s fallen soldiers until the age of eighteen. These children have lost their fathers in war while defending their homeland, and the program ensures they receive consistent assistance and the reminder that the Armenian community stands with them.
This effort was initiated by Ungeruhi Anne Bedian, the Vareech of the Gaidzag Juniors Chapter, who learned about the program through her local ARS Araz Chapter and brought the idea to the juniors. After discussing the program’s mission, the juniors unanimously agreed that they wanted to take on this responsibility and contribute to this meaningful cause.
Learning About the Program
To learn more, the juniors held a meeting at the ARS Western USA offices, where Ungeruhi Jasik Jarahian gave a detailed presentation about the history and purpose of the Fallen Heroes Children program. She explained how families register, how many children have been supported over the years, and why this initiative is so important. She also shared the cards and photos of the children currently enrolled.
After reviewing the profiles, the juniors chose to sponsor Avet Khosrovyan, who is the youngest child in the program. They wanted their support to have the greatest long-term impact, and this marks the beginning of a twelve-year commitment to sponsor him annually until he turns eighteen.
Baking for a Cause
To raise the required funds, the juniors organized a bake sale. Ungeruhi Dzia Vartabedian generously opened her home to host a baking day, where the juniors prepared cookies and got everything ready for their fundraiser. Ungeruhi Nazeli Khodabash helped organize the event and guided the juniors through the baking process.
All the ingredients were donated by Ungeruhi Ani Chalian, allowing the juniors to raise the full amount without any expenses.
The bake sale was a great success – and all the cookies sold during an ARF Aghbalian Chapter meeting. The juniors proudly raised the full amount needed to sponsor little Avet for the year.
Check Presentation
On Friday, November 21, during their weekly meeting at the community center, the juniors presented their check for $330 to ARS Western USA, officially completing their first year of sponsorship for Aved.
A Commitment With Meaning
This sponsorship represents far more than a fundraiser. It is an expression of solidarity, responsibility, and love. The AYF Juniors Gaidzag Chapter is excited to begin this long-term relationship with Avet Khosrovyan and looks forward to receiving updates or communication from him over the years.
The juniors are proud of their accomplishment and are committed to supporting Armenia’s Fallen Heroes children in the years ahead.
