AYF Zartonk to Hold Fundraiser for Youth Corps Program

CRESCENTA VALLEY–The Crescenta Valley ‘Zartonk’ Chapter of the Armenian Youth Federation will be hosting a lounge night fundraiser on Saturday March 28 as part of a large scale effort by the organization’s nine Southern California chapters to raise funds for the AYF’s Youth Corps program in Armenia.

The event, titled “Just Kick It,” is set to begin at 8pm at the Crescenta Valley Armenian Center. It is the 5th Youth Corps fundraiser held since the program began engaging the local chapters on this initiative late last year.

Thus far joint fundraisers have been held with the Burbank ‘Varak’ chapter, the Orange County ‘Ashod Yergat’ chapter, the Montebello ‘Vahan Kardashian’ chapter, and the Hollywood ‘Musa Dagh’ chapter.

The AYF Youth Corps program was established in 1994 to strengthen ties between the homeland and Diaspora youth. The program provides an unequaled opportunity to experience daily life in Armenia by volunteering as camp counselors for underprivileged children in Gyumi.

“The Youth Corps program is the bridge for diasporan youth to connect with their homeland. Working with children in Armenia is a priceless experience,” said Sose Thomassian, chairperson of the Youth Corps Committee. “In the future, with the support of our communities, we hope to expand the program to several cities throughout Armenia.”

The six week program is open to all youth over the age of 18 who are motivated and enthusiastic about helping Armenia. The deadline to submit applications for the Summer 2009 Youth Corps program is on April 20. Applications can be downloaded at: https://www.ayfwest.org/assets/2009_yc_application.pdf

The Crescenta Valley Armenian Center is located on 2633 Honolulu Ave., Montrose, CA, 91020.