LA CRESCENTA–About 250 members–friends–and supporters of the Crescenta Valley ARF "Zavarian" committee and the Armenian Relief Society’s "Taline" chapter attended the 15th anniversary Gala of both organizations on March 18.
Several representatives of both organizations addressed the guests to emphasize the important role the Crescenta Valley (CV) Armenian Center plays in the daily lives of inhabitants of La Crescenta–La Canada–Sunland–Montrose–Tujunga–and North Glendale.
The center–located at 2633 Honolulu Avenue in Glendale–was purchased shortly after the establishment of the ARF Zavarian Chapter–through the efforts of its founding members–the ARS "Taline" chapter–and the help of benefactors from the community. As the years went by–the center became home to various other organizations including the Homenetmen "Shant" chapter–the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Association–the ARF "Karekin Njteh" Badanegan Chapter–the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) "Zartonk" chapter–as well as to the Armenian Elderly Society. These non-profit organizations offer numerous services to the community.
The ARF Zavarian chapter’s "Hai Tad" committee–otherwise known as the CV Armenian National Committee (ANC)–has been instrumental in relaying the concerns of the Armenian community to area educational institutions and political representatives in the area. By hosting various community forums–the ANCCV has allowed political–as well as public officials–to clearly state their positions on various issues concerning the Armenian community–such as problems arising in public schools and Armenian genocide recognition.
The ARS "Taline" chapter has been instrumental in keeping the youth in touch with their roots. Today–more than 60 children enrolled in the ARS Saturday school have the opportunity to learn Armenian–Armenian history and culture. For information on how to enroll in this school–interested parties may call (818) 248-4680. Aside from its countless benevolent deeds–the chapter has also offered many scholarships to deserving Armenian students.
The Homenetmen "Shant" chapter–founded in 1993–is open for membership to boys–girls–men and women of all ages. It currently has 545 members–85 of whom are scouts–300 of whom are athletes and 160 of whom serve as auxiliaries. The chapter’s executive committee can be reached for further details at (818) 248-4680.
The Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Association has organized various cultural events throughout the years–such as art exhibits–concerts–lectures. Children ranging from 4 to 14 have the unique opportunity to attend dance classes under the supervision of skilled instructors in the field. The Hamazkayin office can be reached at (818) 248-1100.
The ARF "Karekin Njdeh" chapter is open for membership to adolescents ranging from 9 to 16 years old. It aims to educate the youth about the Armenian Cause and history–and to instill leadership skills. To enroll their children in this organization–parents may call (818) 248-1100.
The Armenian Youth Federation "Zartonk" chapter–open to members from 16 to 26–strives to serve the Armenian American Community through education–athletics–political activism and cultural activities. For further information about this organization–you may visit its website at www.ayfwest.org.
The La Crescenta Valley center is truly open to all members of the community–regardless of their age–and is a wonderful resource to meet their needs and interests. It is the current organizations’ hope that more and more Armenia’s in the area will utilize these resources and make the center their own "home."
This past year–the Community Outreach program–In an effort to help community members in need provided the following services. A tax specialist offered help in Federal and State tax filing. An architect knowledgeable with the city’s planning department’s requiremen’s offered his services free of charge. Students had the opportunity to receive guidance in their college applications and selections thanks to the counseling offered by the members of the Armenian Youth Federation. Finally–a family therapist was made available to help deal with difficult parenting issues.
The Center renovation committee spent much time and effort in greatly improving the physical appearance of the center. The "Sarkis Aposhian" hall is available for rent to host events. The swimming pool is regularly used in the summer by many children for a nominal fee.