Connecting Our Roads To Los Angeles

-----Santa Barbara, Ca
By: Anita Tokatyan

On February 24, 2013, The Hidden Road Initiative and Los Angeles locals gathered at the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) center in Burbank to discuss, inspire, and unite the young generation of Armenian-Americans. The center was filled with over 60 intelligent and ambitious students and young professionals to further the progress of Armenia and unite joint efforts.

HRI team members presented about its origins and current projects to the Armenians of Los Angeles, providing insight on their work and dedication to the organization. Gathered at the AYF were individuals of all ages who eagerly engaged in the video presentation, live Skype call to Armenia, and personal experiences in villages and HRI. 

Rafi Orphali, Chairman of the Burbank AYF, said he was quickly motivated to share HRI projects with other community members and promote the Hidden Road’s success. 

“It’s very easy to be caught up with your work,” Orphali said. “We’re normal people, we’re students, but we reserve a portion of our day to think about what we want to see in the world, the changes we want to make, and then we act on it.”

Members of the Hidden Road Initiative and Act for Armenia have raised over $4,000 within the past two weeks towards their current project. All proceeds will help purchase new heating systems and textbooks for 6 schools located in the borders of Armenia, including Akphradzor. By providing heaters, members hope to heat the cold classrooms during the cold winter months of Armenia. 

This summer HRI will be traveling to two villages in Armenia! We will return to Akhpradzor and continue with an educational camp for students in the village school. HRI will also be in Kosh, Armenia conducting a medical mission to attend to the untreated spinal conditions of many villagers. In the coming months HRI will begin our two summer projects and prepare for our departure to Armenia!

CLICK HERE for more information on our current project and how YOU can share the warmth!