Homenetmen’s “Artsakh'” Foundation and Homenetmen-HASK for Artsakh Children
In July and August 2024, the Homenetmen "Artsakh" Foundation, in collaboration with Homenetmen-HASK and the Homenetmen Artsakh Solitary Chapter, organized summer camps for displaced children from Artsakh, ages 6 to 14. The camps, which hosted approximately 860 children, were held in the cities of Abovyan and Masis. A program planning committee was formed for the camp, consisting of several Kouyrs and Yeghpayrs from Homenetmen-HASK: Nare Khelghatian, Anna Saradjian, Anoush Buluzian, Nare Tamrazian, Tamar Sargsian, and Krikor Doulkarian. The program began on July 27, ran on Saturdays and Sundays, and concluded on August 18. The program was actively supported by various scouts leaders from Homenetmen-HASK branches in Yerevan, Abovyan, and Armavir, as well as the scout leaders from the Artsakh region of Homenetmen, totaling 65 volunteers. As part of the “Become a Volunteer” program, Kouyr Natel Havatian, a barmanuhi from Homenetmen Antelias, Lebanon, assisted with the camp activities. The program was also supported by Yerkir Media TV as an informational sponsor, along with the leaders of the Masis and Abovyan communities. Comfortable camp facilities were provided for all participants, along with two meals a day, recreational and educational activities, and craft workshops led by qualified specialists. Visits to the Yerevan Zoo, the "Mother Armenia" Military History Museum, and other attractions were also included. The children created unforgettable memories. The camp became not only a source of fun and laughter but also an educational and developmental platform, where they had a wonderful time and took home new knowledge and skills that will benefit them in their future lives. Soon, Homenetmen Artsakh Solitary Chapter Scout groups will be formed in the aforementioned cities, involving the children who participated in the camp. The closing ceremony of the summer camps took place on September 8 at the "Karnig Meguerditchian" campsite in Pyuragan. Guests invited to the ceremony included Kouyr Sandra Vartanian, a member of the Homenetmen Central Executive Committee, the Central Executive Committee of Homenetmen-HASK, the administration of Homenetmen Artsakh Solitary Chapter, Armenian Relief Society of Armenia, and the administrations of Homenetmen branches from the Masis and Abovyan communities. During the one-day program, the young Artsakhtsis also got acquainted with scout life and daily activities, and the day concluded with various camp songs. The volunteers of the summer camp were formally presented with certificates, while the specialists involved in the program received letters of appreciation.
