Armenian Youth Initiative

GIVE TO THE MAX BENEFITS OUR ONGOING EFFORTS IN ARMENIA 

AYI spent part of January and February, 2024, working with children and families who relocated to Armenia following the forced deportation of over 100,000 Christian Armenians from their homes in Karabakh (Artsakh).  Our efforts targeted the Artsakh population but was not limited to these families alone.  It is important to remember that 75% of all Armenian children live in poverty.  With our partners in Armenia we have continued this work.  In recent weeks we installed electronics in a rural library to assist in the educational development of our youth.  Moreover, we have supported families in need of medical supplies, basic needs, and school supplies.  We are in the process of shipping life-saving medical devices to a hospital in Armenia.  We have helped by providing housing and electricity along with other necessities.  We continue to provide mental health counseling and trauma services where needed.

INTENTIONAL INTERVENTIONS BRING MEANING AND HOPE TO ARMENIAN FAMILIES 

Armenian Youth Initiative (AYI) was established as a Minnesota (501-C3) non-profit to provide activities and opportunities to youth and their families.  We began this initiative in the early 1990's.  We provide essential supports to a large portion of the underserved population.  We identify and fill 'service gaps' that can, at times, render families helpless.  For example, a young girl was in need of eye surgery, something the government provides.  But the lens she needed was not covered by the government .  A father, who was badly burned in the petroleum explosion, needed surgery, again provided by the government.  The burn cream he needed in advance of surgery was not provided.  These are a few of the gaps we try to address.    Your help continues to make a difference.  

The current atmosphere in Armenia remains fragile.  Existential threats are a part of everyday life.  The future of the displaced Artsakh families also remains challenging.  Some are learning new skills to obtain employment, while others are less fortunate, have limited options and remain in unfavorable living circumstances. 

The uncertainty of Armenia's future provides a chilling reminder that the world is in chaos.  Armenia's effort to survive and maintain its historical identity, culture, and autonomy in a hostile region, remains a challenge.  With continued support, AYI will continue to work with our Armenian counterparts and provide the support and assistance that offer hope for a bright and positive future.

AYI works diligently to remind those struggling they are not alone.  We remain committed to helping Armenian youth today, while identifying the challenges of tomorrow.  Without our team in Armenia, and without you, our supporters, we could not do the work we are doing.   Below is our mailing address should you prefer to send a check.  Thank you!

Martin Meketarian, Executive Director

Armenian Youth Initiative, Autumn/Winter 2024