THE YETVART BOYAJIAN SCHOOL
During the early years of Armenia’s independence, the government decided to name Yerevan’s #121 primary school in honor of Yetvart Boyajian, a diasporan Armenian and noted writer and poet. For many years, thanks to the Boyajian family and individual benefactors, many major and important renovations were completed at the school, under the supervision of the St. Nerses the Great Organization. Awards were established recognizing top students of Armenian language and literature. Many other projects have also been completed at the school.
NOUBARASHEN HOME FOR CHILDREN
Boarding School #11 located in Yerevan’s village of Greater Noubarashen, which is under the supervision of the Armenian Republic’s Ministry of Education, provides a home for children with mental and physical challenges.
In 2004 extensive renovations were started on the Home, thanks to a fund in the Prelacy’s Endowment Fund established by the Armenian American benefactor Edward Melconian.
During subsequent years, renovations were made to the entire building, including the third floor dormitories, two large areas with closets for each child, as well as the kitchen on the first floor, lunch room, and space for sewing and needlework.
DATEV MUSIC SCHOOL
The Nor Malatya section of Yerevan is one of the poorest neighborhoods. Many years ago a brass ensemble for young boys was established in the neighborhood under the tutelage of the late Manuel Kalustyan and three teachers. Every year about 40 youngsters participate and receive music education free of charge. Many are able to continue their music education at Yerevan State Conservatory. The Eastern Prelacy, through the St. Nerses the Great Charitable Organization, has generously covered the expenses of this young ensemble.
SUMMER CAMP
During the past seven years a summer camp for orphans has been organized under the supervision and direction of Archpriest Fr. Aram Stepanian, thanks to individual benefactors and the parishes of the Eastern Prelacy, and the logistical assistance of the St. Nerses the Great office. Each year more than 50 children attend the camp that provides religious education and ethical and moral values. The children participate in liturgical services, fellowship, exercise, sports, and field trips.
HAPPY FAMILY
The Happy Family program was established by the late Sarkis Arslanian and his family in 2008. The purpose of the program was to help ten disabled veterans of the Artsakh war and their families. Since the death of Sarkis Arslanian in 2013, his widow and children have increased the number of families receiving aid to fifteen.