ARS New Jersey ‘Shakeh’ Chapter Raises $35,000 for Artsakh
RIDGEFIELD, N.J. (A.W.)—The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) New Jersey “Shakeh” chapter held a fundraiser to benefit Artsakh on May 21 at the Armenian Community Center in Ridgefield. The fundraiser, which was attended by more than 330 people, raised $35,000, which will be donated to the ARS Artsakh Fund.
The fundraiser, which was attended by more than 330 people, raised $35,000, which will be donated to the ARS Artsakh Fund.
“Shakeh” chapter member Pauline Dostoumian addressed the audience, stressing the importance of the unity the Armenian people displayed during the large-scale military aggression unleashed by Azerbaijan in early April. “If we cannot stand on the frontlines, let us then stand in solidarity. We urge everyone to donate as much as they can, so that our homeland’s borders stay strong and our compatriots stay safe. We must realize that our borders are drawn in the blood of our martyrs and that we will not compromise any land, but instead, we will protect our homeland. Together, for the people, for the homeland, let us stand in solidarity with Artsakh,” she said in her address.
Hagop Melkonian then spoke on behalf of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) New Jersey “Dro” chapter, which was followed by remarks by Der Hovnan Bozoyan, reverend father of the St. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church.
(L to R) Pauline Dostoumian, Ani Keshishian, Nyree Derderian
The keynote address was delivered by ARS Central Executive Vice Chair Nyree Derderian, who detailed the important work the ARS has done in Artsakh since the escalated tension in early April. She also provided details about the ARS work with Artsakh authorities in regards to displaced families, the families of deceased soldiers, education, and village rebuilding.
Singer Karnig Sarkissian then sang revolutionary and patriotic Armenian songs during the fundraising portion led by “Shakeh” chapter Chair Ani Keshishian.
Source: Armenian Weekly Mid-Atlantic
