AYF Hosts Annual Convention

GLENDALE – Delegates from the Armenian Youth Federation’s 14 chapters convened last week at the organization’s camp grounds in Wrightwood for a three day conference to set the goals and direction for upcoming fiscal year.

During the course of the convention, delegates discussed increasing member and community activism, establishing new means of outreach to a growing Armenian community, coalition building with other human rights organizations and increasing ties of assistance to the homeland.

“The AYF Annual Convention is an opportunity for delegates from across California, Nevada, Arizona and Texas to come together to talk about how we can make a difference in the life of the Armenian Diaspora,” said Saro Haroun, from the Crescenta Valley “Zartonk” Chapter, who served as the Convention’s Chairman. “The ideas and discussions that take place here will set the direction for our upcoming year and place emphasis on important issues facing Armenian-American youth.”

The delegates were joined by representatives from the ARF Badanegan Central Council, AYF Camp Management Board, as well as ARF Western Region Central Committee member Aram Kaloustian,

The Convention concluded with the election of the 2008-2009 AYF Central Executive. The seven person body consists of members from across California and will serve to govern the administrative and organizational aspects of the AYF.

The body will consist of the following members: Chairperson: Vache Thomassian, Vice Chairperson: Berj Parseghian, Secretary: Dikran Aslanian, Treasurer: Vatche Soghomonian, and Advisors: Levon-Shant Demirjian, Taleen Altounian and Shunt Jarchafjian.

“Our membership is excited to continue its work, mobilizing our youth and educating our communities,” said Vache Thomassian, speaking on behalf of the newly elected body. “We are ready to face any new challenges and obstacles with steadfast determination.”

Founded in 1933, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) has grown to become the largest and most influential Armenian American youth organization; with chapters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world. Inspired by our past and motivated by the needs of the future, the AYF actively strives to advance the social, political, educational and cultural awareness of all Armenian youth.