Syunik NGO

Today I met with the people I will work with over the next two weeks here in Yeghegnadzor. Syunik Development NGO (this is their Facebook page) works on a multitude of projects to help better the lot of people in the region: and from what I heard today, I can tell you that they are punching far above their weight! Projects include social and community development, tourism development, agriculture production, and aid for regional youth. As if they didn't have enough on their plate, they plan on introducing engineering projects for the region (Armath engineering laboratories) and SMART kindergartens. Of course, more recently their focus has turned to issues related to Covid-19, and especially to helping war refugees and IDPs (internally displaced persons) settled in the region. They have an impressive list of international and diasporan partners that have helped fund their projects over the years.

The $15,000 or so CAD (hopefully more by the time I leave here!) raised by my fundraising efforts will offer some help for struggling families. The greatest need at the moment seems to be for families of deceased and injured soldiers (around 200 families), and general aid for refugees (around 500 families) settled in the region. I asked whether there were any other people in the region who needed but were receiving NO aid at all, and was told they would get back to me on that.

Realistically, the money donated to the AAF through my fundraising campaign could potentially help all of these families receive food and goods, but only for about a week or so: it may not be much, but it's something, and I am forever grateful to those who donated. As I have said in several posts when asking for funds to be donated, ALL of your money will go directly to help those who could really use it, now, and trust that I will inform readers via this blog how the money will eventually be disbursed.

Tomorrow I am slated to hear about future development projects and will tour a host of the projects under the auspices of Syunik NGO, and likely meet some people affected by the war. I greatly look forward to working with this enthusiastic group of young staffers. I have so much to learn! Hopefully I have something to offer as well during my time here.

Meanwhile, I'm pretty tired and should sleep early today. It's 6pm, maybe I can cheat the jetlag and fall asleep within 2 hours or so, my body could probably really use it.

For those who would like to contribute financially, or forward this blog to those who might be interested in contributing (and/or read about the good work done here!), you can do so directly to the AAF, via my Facebook campaign, or via my gofundme campaign. If none of these work for you, please get in touch!

Comments

  1. Unknown14 January 2021 at 08:30

    Awesome, Aram. Be encouraged. You are there for a reason and have much to offer. You will find your place and purpose. In the meantime, take good care of yourself, eat nutritiously and get plenty of rest and excercise (yes, I am like your big sister!). Much love. Astrid and family.

    ReplyDelete
  2. David Pakyuz14 January 2021 at 20:51

    Aram jan, they need people like you. I am sure you will have a very positive impact on our people in difficulties.

    ReplyDelete

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