GLENDALE—In an effort to support the Syrian Armenian Relief Fund’s (SARF’s) “A Small Gift from My School to Yours” campaign, Chamlian’s administration, faculty and students worked collaboratively to reach out once again and help the Syrian Armenian community, especially the Armenian youth trying to go to school in the midst of the violence and chaos in Syria.
True to the message of the campaign, the students and campus student organizations were heavily involved in organizing a host of activities; including a bake sale, ice cream sale, a walk-a-thon for 4th -8th grade students, and a fair for 1st -3rd grade students.
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 4th through 6th grade students walked to the Western Prelacy and were greeted and commended for their efforts by his Eminence Archbishop Moushegh Mardirosian. On the same day, 7th and 8th grade students walked to the La Crescenta Armenian Center and were greeted by the members of the Zavarian gomideh, Hrair Shirikian and Onnik Hayrapetian. Students were provided with refreshments and some inspirational words by the executives. All 4th-8th grade students collected sponsors for the walk-a-thons as they symbolically walked in unity to support the Syrian Armenian students.
On Friday, Oct. 24, 1st to 3rd grade students participated in a fair organized by the 7th and 8th grade student clubs and organizations. With Armenian music playing in the background, the middle school executive club members greeted the 1st-3rd grade students who enjoyed a fun afternoon decorating pumpkins, making masks, and participating in various games during a fair, while raising much needed funds for the Armenian schools in Syria.
Besides these major fundraisers, the Parent Support Committee hosted a special lunch for SARF, and the school also held an ice cream fundraiser. A few dedicated staff members also made delicious traditional lentil soup, which the faculty enjoyed and provided donations for the worthy cause.
The entire Chamlian Family was encouraged to participate in all of the activities by the principal, Dr. Talin Kargodorian, to send a message to the Syrian Armenian community and let them know that we stand beside them in unity. “I am so proud of our Chamlian students, faculty, staff and parents, who came together for this important cause. The collective efforts of the entire Chamlian Family are truly exemplary and an example of the strong sense of community at the school. It was inspiring and moving to experience the true generosity of all the members of our school. It was an honor for us to unite for our brothers and sisters in Syria!”
