The 48th Homenetmen Navasartian Games & Festival announced John and Cynthia Andonian as its Honorary Presidents, a tribute to their unwavering dedication to the Homenetmen organization and its values, both regionally and globally.
“Homenetmen runs through our veins, passed down through generations,” the Andonians reflect, encapsulating the profound influence of Homenetmen on Armenians worldwide. Cynthia recalls her father’s remarkable fifty-year commitment to Homenetmen in Beirut, while John’s journey began as a Homenetmen Scout in Aleppo, Syria, before he and his family settled in Hollywood in the late 1970s. Their legacy continues to thrive, honored through the Kevork Andonian Hall at the Homenetmen Western Regional Center, named after John’s late father. John is the youngest and third Andonian brother to told the title of Honorary President of the Navasartian Games.
Cynthia passionately emphasizes Homenetmen’s core strength: “The sense of community and belonging.” This ethos has forged lifelong friendships and provided a nurturing space for youth and families alike. As the Andonian family established roots from Los Angeles to San Diego, they witnessed firsthand Homenetmen’s vital role in uniting the local Armenian community.
John articulates Homenetmen’s guiding principle: “Elevate yourself and others with you.” This philosophy of mutual upliftment has been crucial in cultivating successful individuals and fortifying the Armenian-American community.
Since its inception in 1975, the Navasartian Games have grown into California’s premier annual community sporting event, showcasing over 3,200 athletes, 1,100 scouts, and drawing 35,000 spectators. This vibrant gathering exemplifies Homenetmen’s mission of physical, moral, and social education.
“We brought our children to many Homenetmen events as they were growing up, and those experiences forged friendships that have lasted over four decades,” Cynthia states, highlighting the organization’s multigenerational impact and its role as a sanctuary for all.
The Andonians also commend Homenetmen’s groundbreaking “Hrashq” initiative for children with special needs. Attending an event, John witnessed over 60 children, each with unique talents, come together in a “moving experience.” He emphasized the strength found in active parental involvement, crucial for fostering unity and resilience within the organization.
As Honorary Presidents, the Andonians envision a vibrant future for Homenetmen, advocating for the expansion of scouting programs, athletic development, and enhanced community outreach. They believe in preserving Homenetmen’s values to ensure it remains a haven for the next generation of youth, empowering them to emerge as leaders in their communities.
The 48th Navasartian Games & Festival, culminating over the Fourth of July weekend, promises thrilling athletic competitions, a lively festival with world- famous entertainment and a grand closing ceremony. This event not only showcases athletic prowess and the power of the scouting community but also celebrates the unity and rich cultural heritage of the Armenian-American community.
With the motto, “Elevate Yourself and Others With You,” Homenetmen inspires its members to pursue both individual and collective excellence. The Navasartian Games serve as a platform for youth to engage in healthy competition, forge lasting bonds, and connect with their heritage.
Join Homenetmen in honoring John and Cynthia Andonian and celebrating Homenetmen’s enduring legacy at the 48th Victory Ball at the Century Plaza Hotel on June 28th and at the Navasartian Games & Festival, taking place at Birmingham High School in Los Angeles, July 3 to 6. Together, let us elevate ourselves and one another.
