AZG Armenian Daily #084, 03/05/2008

Diaspora

DETROIT TEKEYAN HOSTS OUTREACH ARMENIA FORUM

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Approximately 200 people attended
the Outreach Armenia Forum hosted by the Tekeyan
Cultural Association on Saturday evening, April 12 at
the AGBU Alex and Marie Manoogian School here.

Spearheaded by Edmond and Nora Azadian, the forum was
an effort to familiarize the community with the
numerous non-political organizations which are
extending financial aid and services to Armenia and
Karabagh.

There are many organizations in the community
sponsoring projects in Armenia, but many were unaware
of the others’ activities. This was an opportunity to
view and recognize communitywide support to Armenia.

Nora Azadian extended her appreciation to Edgar
Hagopian for hosting the initial meetings of the
various organization chairs at his World of Rugs
Showroom, Leslie Balian Bush for her technical
assistance and the entire committee for their help in
presenting the forum.

Contributions of 20 charitable organizations and
individuals were featured and recognized. Each
representative briefly outlined the mission,
objectives and history of their organization during a
Powerpoint presentation. A few of the organizations,
such as the AGBU and Knights of Vartan have long
histories, while others were developed following the
earthquake and Armenia’s independence to alleviate new
problems, encourage self-sufficiency and strengthen
ties with the diaspora.

All of the humanitarian and research projects
represented were well received by the audience. In
closing, Master of Ceremonies Edmond Azadian
introduced Hagopian, who commended the participants
for their commitment to Armenia. Hagopian added, "We
are fortunate that the Diaspora has prospered and it
is now our obligation and privilege to provide aid to
sustain our ancestral homeland."

A lavish reception chaired by Taleen Hagopian
followed, where guests mingled with representatives of
the featured organizations.

By Lucy Ardash

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress