Armenian Assembly of America
122 C Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 24 , 2005
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
Email: [email protected]
ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY PLANS FIRST-EVER YOUNG LEADERSHIP GROUP MISSION TO
ARMENIA: JUNE 29 – JULY 11
Washington, DC – In response to the growing number of young
professionals and intern alumni joining the Armenian Assembly in
recent years, organizational leaders today announced plans to lead the
Assembly’s first-ever “Young Leadership Group Mission to Armenia.”
The trip, scheduled for June 29 – July 11, 2005, is specifically
designed for professionals ages 18-40, former interns and families
with children.
“The Assembly is thrilled to offer its supporters this trip and hopes
that a great many of our young leaders and their families will take
part,” said Board of Directors Chairman Anthony Barsamian, who is
leading the Mission group. “For more than 15 years, this organization
has successfully led an annual Mission to our homeland, thanks in
part to the Assembly’s Mission Chair Annie Totah. Participants can
expect the Assembly to maintain the high standards that have been
set forth on previous Mission trips.”
Totah, who also serves as Board of Directors Vice-Chair, said Mission
participants often return from their trip with a renewed sense of
commitment for the Armenian cause. “Throughout the years, many of our
members have been touched by what they see that it inspires them to
adopt or underwrite a special project or cause in Armenia,” said Totah.
“It is now time for the next generation to make that trip home, and
best determine how they can make a difference in their homeland and
their communities.”
The 12-day visit will highlight the many important and historical sites
that Armenia has to offer, including Holy Etchmiadzin, Khor Virab,
Geghard, Garni, the Genocide Museum and Memorial. Participants will
also attend private briefings by Armenian government officials,
His Holiness Karekin II, as well as U.S. Embassy officials.
Trip participants will also tour museums, schools, churches, and other
sites in and around Yerevan. In addition, free time will be scheduled
for individual sightseeing trips or visits with friends and family.
Children participating on the Mission will also have the opportunity
to meet new friends in Armenia through several pre-planned activities.
Day programs for children ages 5-15, dubbed “Camp Yerevan” will allow
youngsters to connect with Armenia’s rich culture and heritage and
tour Armenia’s historical sites in a safe and controlled environment.
Contributing Affiliate Lena Kizirian of Redondo Beach, California made
her first trip to Armenia last year with the Assembly. Kizirian,
who traveled with her husband, said the trip forever changed her
outlook on Armenia and she’s eager to go back.
“Before this trip, Armenia used to be a very distant and far fetched
dream,” Kizirian said. “Armenia has put my life in perspective and
there are no words to describe the feelings you have when you’re there.
That’s why we’re planning on returning with the Assembly in June. And
this time, we’re taking our daughters with us!”
The Assembly Mission group will stay at the newly-renovated Hotel
Armenia Marriott situated on Republic Square in the heart of Yerevan.
Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
with completed application forms and payments by check or credit card
received by the Assembly by May 2, 2005.
To receive an application, or to learn more about the trip, contact
Assembly Deputy Director of Development Rita Mullane in Washington,
DC at (202) 393-3434 x246 or via email at [email protected].
The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based
nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness
of Armenian issues. It is a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt membership
organization.
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NR#2005-035