ARMENIAN LIBRARY AND MUSEUM OF AMERICA THANKS VOLUNTEERS

Watertown TAB & Press
090835306/Armenian-Library-and-Museum-of-America-t hanks-volunteers
Feb 3 2010
MA

WATERTOWN — The Armenian Library and Museum of America in Watertown
presented a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on Jan. 9 to thank its
volunteers for their hard work and to pay special tribute to a retiring
volunteer, Dash Nahabedian. Members of ALMA’s board of trustees joined
the staff in acknowledging volunteers for their dedication.

More than 50 volunteers enjoyed Armenian mezza, roasted chicken,
side dishes and desserts provided by Whole Foods, Sevan Bakery, Not
Your Average Joe’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Stop & Shop and other donors from
the community.

"ALMA’s volunteers have helped us build and sustain the organization
over the decades," said ALMA Executive Director Mariam Stepanyan
during the luncheon. "Our exhibits, programs, promotional mailings,
receptions, registration and general administration would not be
possible without you."

Nahabedian was then recognized for his contributions to ALMA’s
Mesrop Boyajian Library, where he volunteered every week from 2006
until his recent move to Rhode Island. Cataloging, shelving, sorting
and assisting with special library projects were all a part of his
weekly duties.

ALMA curator Gary Lind-Sinanian recalled days when he was so busy
with curatorial work and archival projects that he didn’t have a
chance to stop at the library and check in with Nahabedian.

"When I’d finally have the time to go to the library, whatever mounds
of paperwork, book shelving and unfinished work I left there would
be gone," said Lind-Sinanian. "It was like magic."

ALMA’s volunteers range in age from 13 to 85 and whether a student,
retiree, stay-at-home mother, lawyer, business owner or educator,
volunteers bring enthusiasm and expertise to the exhibits, projects
and programs they are working on.

ALMA welcomes new volunteers to assist its curatorial, archival, public
relations and library departments. Anyone interested in learning about
volunteering opportunities can call Christie Hardiman at 617-926-2562,
ext. 4, or visit