OUR GOALS

The ARA Project is a non-profit organization, whose purpose is to fundraise for and create opportunities to support programs that would honor the values of a cherished friend and brother Ara Baran who passed away at the age of twenty-three. The ARA Project strives to memorialize Ara and his legacy.
That is, showing compassion for the Armenian homeland by addressing humanitarian needs and good works in Armenia.
Also ARA Project aims to promote biblical Christian teaching and doctrine, echoing Ara’s life that was fueled by his faith.
And finally, Ara’s unquestionable zest for life can be reflected in the eyes of the people that the ARA Project assists.

OUR HISTORY

Founded in 2005, Ara Project hosted its first winter fundraiser that sent over $3000 to Armenia to buy boots and winter gear for needy children.
In 2006, over $15,000 was raised to run a summer camp, and provide Christmas gifts for students from the Endanik Charity Society in Gyumri, Armenia.
In 2007, we again sponsored Endanik's summer camp, this time accomodating dozens of disabled and wheelchair bound children and their caretakers as well.
Ara Project wouldn’t exist today without its generous donors and sponsors.
With several fundraisers planned throughout the year, we send invitations and announcements of upcoming events for those on our mailing list.
We also make every effort to give updated information about our work through a newsletter printed at least twice a year.

OUR CURRENT PROJECTS

Our first project is to support the Endanik Charity Society in Gyumri, Armenia. Endanik helps over 1500 individuals including disabled youth, orphans and underprivileged families. Since an earthquake ravaged Gyumri in 1988, many children still live in deplorable conditions, and suffer with social and health problems.
Endanik’s after-school programming provides students with enriching opportunities to learn, have hope, and look forward to a more promising future.
They can choose to study in dance, computer design, theatre, journalism, jewelry design, foreign languages, woodworking and much more.
In addition to vocational training, Endanik also addresses physical needs like providing clothing and food, as well as intellectual, social and spiritual development.
ARA Project supports summer camp and other program needs through annual fundraisers.