Armenian Diaspora is soaring over its only piece of home left, spreading their care for the orphaned children in Armenia, to let them know that they are not alone in this world.
The second annual fundraising of Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief, Los Angeles chapter, took place on June 16 in a beautiful venue of Ambassador Mansions and Gardens in Pasadena. The Wish Upon a Star charity event was devoted to raising funds for five computer labs in the orphanages of Armenia and for humanitarian relief for the orphans in diaspora.
“Education is very important,” said Kohar Mardirosian Pelter, Soar-LA Co-President. “Sending humanitarian relief will help them in a while but we want to send them more ammunition, more help to better prepare them for life. In this age you need to have exposure to computers.”
The idea came when Kohar visited Armenia in 2008. There were no computers in orphanages, only some leftovers that were not usable. The fundraising event was an opportunity for diaspora to support orphaned children in Armenia to ensure they have better opportunities and better future.
Mark Geragos, Trial Lawyer and the Master of Ceremony gave an amazing speech about the uniqueness of the Armenian DNA, how we are closely related because of the DNA similarities. “When we support these children it’s like supporting one of your family members, ” he said.
Although being far from Armenia, diaspora has always been there to support and to encourage their homeland. Each one of the participants was eager to share the responsibility of taking care of the children they never even saw. Through SOAR they became members of the family who are willing to see the need and respond accordingly.
People like Arthur and Lily Seredians, platinum sponsors, who missed the college graduation of their grandchild to be present at the event are inspiration for many.
“We saw a lot of things when we went to Armenia. Some of them were good and some were bed but the way they were taking care of the orphanages and children was amazing. Everything was so neat and clean and children were so happy. They never complained. The kids are our future, if they see love and affection they will become someone good,” said Seredian.
More than 200 representatives of Armenian diaspora were present bringing their support and encouragement to the cause. Yerevan Magazine was sponsoring the event.
Among the guests was Shavarsh Odadjian, the well-known System of a Down rock band member who responded to the cause immediately because he always wanted to help children in Armenia.
“I think it’s a very good cause,” he said. “When I found out about the event I automatically responded because causes involving children have always touched me.” Shavarsh was there with his family and friends.
As the silent auction continued many guests were eager to participate. Beautiful Armenian cultural items such as the Father’s Prayer, William Saroyan sayings and of course, the collection of an outstanding art with Armenian hint. The paintings belonged to Armen Shushanyan, also known as Sharm, Fine Artist who has been painting since he was 15.
His internationally acclaimed paintings were part of the silent auction. “I participate in this event to have my input in helping the cause,” he said. “Life in Armenia is different and any help for kids who lost their parents is a worthy mission.”
Armenian comedian, Ara Basil was also present, bringing his honest insights about Armenian culture, women, family and everything in-between.
Besides the laughs and dances, the wonderful music of violinist, Yelena Yegoryan filled the chilly evening with warmth.
For long years SOAR has been there for the orphans in Armenia, Artsakh and Javakhk through humanitarian support and not only. The organization’s support has not only been distant and material but their presence through Armenian chapter and constant visits from SOAR family kept the contact warm and personal.
The event was a success and the main purpose of the gathering was fulfilled through active care and support of members of the SOAR-LA family. “Let’s hold in our hearts our Armenian orphans living in Armenia, Karabakh, Georgia and Diaspora just as we do our own loved ones, for they are part of us as well,” added Kohar.
http://yerevanmagazine.com/soar-with-the-wish-upon-a-star/