GLENDALE—Friends of AYF Camp gathered for an intimate evening on Saturday, October 13, at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Garo & Talin Ghazarian, who graciously hosted the launch of the AYF Camp Lodge Renovation Project, the largest and final phase of a 10-year facility renovation of the campground. Long time volunteers, directors, past campers and counselors supported the event, collecting nearly $20,000 in donations through the night.
“It is time for the AYF Camp family, comprised of old and new AYF campers and counselors to come together and start thinking about putting forth a new generation of campers,” said Moushig Andonian, Summer Camp director and an organizer of the event.” In order for AYF Camp’s mission to continue serving Armenian youth, we need the proper facilities. It is time to put our efforts together and complete our renovations with the lodge”.
During the last 10 years, AYF Camp Management Board has committed to complete renovation of every structure in AYF Camp, to establish the AYF campground as a state-of-the-art facility for the next 30 years. The Management Board and its volunteers have completed restoration of 11 heated cabins, a fully equipped infirmary, restrooms throughout the campground, the swimming pool, campfire gazebo, flagpole, and other improvements, the last major project remaining the dining lodge.
“The secret of our success is in the volunteer efforts of so many people, those who volunteer during the Summer Camp program, those who work year-round in preparing the Summer Camp program, and of course the AYF Camp Management Board, who manages the facilities throughout the year and all administrative functions of the organization, said Aram Kaloustian, Lodge Renovation Committee chairman.”When called upon, the response of AYF Camp friends and alumni is always extremely positive, strong and energetic; as evidenced by the turnout and success of this evening.”
The Lodge Renovation Project aims to raise $450,000 for a brand new dining hall, kitchen, office and sleeping quarters. With the lodge renovation planned to begin next fall, fundraising efforts have now launched and will continue throughout the coming year.
Lodge Renovation Project donations can be made by contacting the AYF Camp office, (818) 242-7494.
Since 1977, AYF Camp has offered a genuinely rewarding experience, by serving as a place for Armenian youth to make new friends and memories of a lifetime. AYF Camp is the largest and oldest Summer Camp program in the Western United States, focusing on Armenian culture and heritage. Visit www.AYFCamp.org for more information and sign up as a “Friend of AYF Camp” to receive news and updates on programs and events.
