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Armenian NGO News in Brief |
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NGOC Gazette |
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| Armenian NGO News in Brief 2001 |
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VOLUME 2 No 1 - December 8, 2000
NGO CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM-3 The current cycle of the NGO Training and Resource Center/UNHCR joint program focusing on capacity building of local NGOs dealing with refugee issues is nearing its end. The implementation of the program, encompassing the Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor and Ararat regions, started in April of the current year and included the following phases:
The NGO Center hosted a meeting with the representative of the RoA Ministry of State Revenues to acquaint non-profit organizations with the tax policy relating to the field. During the meeting, the NGOs received answers to questions concerning them. The NGO Center also hosted a donor panel for regional NGOs. Representatives from the Eurasia Foundation Armenia Office and the Open Society Institute Assistance Foundation Armenia Office described their mandates, and provided information on their projects and application procedures. The NGO Center also organized retreats for the NGOs where the groups learned about each other's activities, discussed community problems and developed possible solutions. Contact: Knarik Arabian, NGO Training and Resource Center, 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am FOR SOCIALLY VULNERABLE FAMILIES OF VAYK REGION The NGO "Hope 98" provides assistance to socially vulnerable families, particularly refugees, of the Vayk region. The "NGO Capacity Building Program -3" enabled the NGO to technically enrich the organization, to train new members and to carry out an assessment of community needs. As a result, the NGO will provide more effective assistance to socially vulnerable families of the Vayk region. Contact: Almast Safarian, "Hope 98" NGO of the Vayk region; 15 Alaverdian St; Tel.: (0 82) 21373 ASSISTANCE TO GAVAR BUSINESSMEN The Gavar branch of the "Hask 96" Social Non-Governmental Organization is currently developing a database of the region's businessmen involved in small and medium enterprise, and their products and services. In order to strengthen its information and public relations activities, Hask-96 has established a library with publications on human resources and business. It also provides the latest news regarding the business sector to its beneficiaries via a bulletin board in its office. The organization also plans to organize a seminar on development of the NGO's human resource capacities. Contact: Zhanna Zhuloyan, Gavar Branch of the "Hask 96" Social Non-Governmental Organization; Gegharkunik region; Gavar; 93 Sayadian St.; NGO STRENGTHENING AND PROVISION OF NEW SERVICES TO MARTUNI BUSINESSMEN The goal of this project, implemented by the Martuni NGO "Merchants' Union", is to develop the physical, human and service provision resource capacities of the NGO. Having received and installed much needed equipment, the NGO is now conducting an assessment of community needs. Volunteers and new members or the organization conduct advocacy activities aimed at familiarizing NGOs with their rights. Seminars on the following topics will be also held in December: purchase and sales contracts; the structure and aims of the tax system; regulations and timelines for tax payment calculations; how to avoid tax liabilities; business and rights; regulations on preparing and presenting reports. The free consultancy service "Ask and we'll answer" will be also available to Martuni businessmen. Contact: Khanum Ghazarian, Martuni NGO "Merchants' Union"; Gegharkunik region; Martuni; 3 Shahumian St.; Tel.: (0 62) 43452 MARTUNI WOMEN'S COMMUNITY COUNCIL RAISES WOMEN'S AWARENESS ON THEIR RIGHTS The mission of the Martuni Women's Council is to protect women's rights and interests and to raise their awareness of their own rights and responsibilities. Through the "NGO Capacity Building Program-3" the Council aims at developing its human resource capacities, by creating a volunteer group, which will provide consultancy on the protection of women's rights and interests. In an effort to develop the service providing resource capacities of the NGO, 17 coordinating groups of the Council are working in 16 communities and in the refugee inhabited district of Martuni. The physical resource capacities of the NGO were significantly strengthened through a grant that provided greatly needed computer equipment. This has enabled the Council to publish materials on legislation relating to women's rights protection, naturalization of refugees and their privileges, and to broadly disseminate the information among women in order to raise their awareness. Contact: Anahit Gevorgian, Martuni Women's Council, Gegharkunik region, Martuni, 8 Proshian St.; Tel.:(0 62) 42201 TO EFFECTIVELY ASSIST VULNERABLE FAMILIES OF VAYOTS DZOR Since 1996 the humanitarian NGO "Anahit" of Vayots Dzor has assisted almost 460 vulnerable families. The NGO periodically provides financial assistance to 87 families of killed and wounded soldiers. In an effort to improve its effectiveness, the organization plans to assess community needs and expectations through a sociological survey. This essential information will enable the NGO to strengthen its service providing resource capacities. Also, its public relations activities will be expanded through meetings with the region's businessmen, publication of a factsheet and a newsletter, as well as through TV and radio releases. Contact: Karen Babayan, "Anahit" Humanitarian NGO of Vayots Dzor; Yeghegnadzor, 5 Shahumian St.; Tel.: (0 81) 24091 THE PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE "MASIS FUND" IS TO ASSIST VULNERABLE FAMILIES OF THE COMMUNITY The mission of the Benevolent Organization "Masis Fund" is to satisfy some of the needs of the Masis community through development of agriculture and job creation. Within the framework of the "NGO Capacity Building Program-3", the NGO received computer equipment which will be used to compile the results of a sociological survey of community needs and to broadly circulate this information throughout the community. This will strengthen the organization's service providing resource capacities. The NGO has also designed a leaflet and two issues of a newsletter. At the end of December, the organization plans to hold a charitable concert-marathon to assist children of vulnerable families. Contact: Hovhannes Ghalechian, "Masis Fund" Benevolent Organization, Ararat region, Masis, 4, 21 Septemberian square; Tel.; (0 36) 71796, 43040 THE PROBLEMS OF THE NATIONAL MINORITIES OF GAVAR IN THE FOCUS OF THE NGO "RUSSIAN COMMUNITY" The Charitable NGO "Russian Community of Gavar" is the only local non-governmental structure involved in protecting the interests and addressing the needs of the national minorities. Within the framework of the current project the NGO will assess the needs of the entire community and of the Russian minority. A database on the beneficiaries will be designed. Through the efforts of the Charitable NGO "Russian Community", five more vulnerable refugee families will receive lodging on December 31 of the current year. Factsheets have been published and disseminated among beneficiaries, other regional NGOs and state structures. The NGO is planning to organize panel discussions on social, health and cultural issues facing the Russian community. Contact: Tatiana Beryozkina-Manukian, Gavar; 8 Grigor Lusavorich St.; Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2 No 2 - March 21, 2001
ARMENIA NGO DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM IN SUPPORT OF USAID'S SOCIAL TRANSITION REFORM AND EARTHQUAKE ZONE PROGRAMS
The Armenian Assembly of America has been awarded a Cooperative Agreement by USAID for its NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) to implement a three-year NGO Development Program. The program targets local NGOs working in the social and primary health care fields and will support community initiatives in the regions affected by the 1988 earthquake.
The main objectives of the program are:
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to develop and strengthen the capacity of social and primary health care NGOs
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to advance civic participation in decision-making through support of social policy oriented initiatives by civic action groups and social and primary health care NGOs
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to encourage cooperation among social and primary health care NGOs and between social and primary health care NGOs and other stakeholders, specifically the Government of Armenia
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to contribute to the improvement of the legal and regulatory environment for the delivery of social and health care services and information by NGOs
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to strengthen selected communities in the Shirak and Lori regions by empowering them to engage in their own self directed development.
To achieve these objectives, the NGOC activities will include: management training; customized training and targeted technical assistance; grants for capacity building; travel grants; research and information related to key social and primary health care issues; community development training in the selected communities of Shirak and Lori regions; and improving the legal environment for social service delivery. The AAA NGO Center invites social service and primary health care NGOs to register and re-register with the Center. This will enable them to use NGOC services and to participate in programs.
Contact: 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St., Yerevan, Armenia; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013, 539204; Fax: (3741) 544015; E-mail: ngoc@ngoc.am
NGO ASSISTS INTERMEDIARY STRATEGIC PLAN TO REDUCE POVERTY
On February 5-9, 2001, the Institute for Democracy and Human Rights (IDHR), with the assistance of OXFAM, organized a seminar entitled "The Ways to Reduce Poverty in Armenia." Its purpose was to discuss the "Intermediary Strategic Plan to Reduce Poverty" prepared by the Government of Armenia, and to come up with evaluations and suggestions. Over 20 NGOs and a number of political parties took part in the seminar, which featured guest experts who presented their views on various issues related to poverty both in Armenia and in the world. Speakers included Hranush Kharatyan ("Hazarashen" NGO), Larisa Alaverdyan ("Against Legal Arbitrariness" NGO), Olga Ghazaryan (Oxfam), Aghasi Tadevosyan (ACNIS), Razmik Martirosyan (Ministry of Social Welfare), and Shavarsh Kocharyan (National Assembly). The five-day seminar at IDHR Office resulted in a Final Statement developed by participants. The document contained the main remarks, observations and suggestions expressed during the discussions. The Statement is to be delivered to the Government, as well as to NGOs and mass media.
Contact: Armine Arakelyan, IDHR, Aygedzor 4/1; Tel.: (3741) 264712;
E-mail: idhr@acc.am
PROJECT ON PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DESEASES AND AIDS, IMPLEMENTED BY "HOPE AND HELP"
The project "Prevention of STDs and AIDS among Migrating Prostitutes" was implemented by the NGO "Hope and Help" from May through October, 2000, with funding support received from the International Office on Migrations (IOM). The project focused on the prevention of the Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) through studies of the physical and psychological needs of migrating prostitutes and through training, consultancy and humanitarian assistance. A medical doctor and a psychologist from the "Center of Trust", working within the framework of the project, provided consultations to the prostitutes along with information on sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS and ways of their prevention. When necessary, the beneficiaries were advised to visit appropriate medical institutions for examination and treatment. The prostitutes also received condoms and personal hygiene products, such as soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, towels, as well as clothes for their and their children's use.
Contact: Yenok Shatvorian, "Hope and Help" NGO, 32 Fuchik St.;
Tel.: (3741) 22 69 65
ASSISTANCE TO SOCIALLY VULNERABLE FAMILIES OF MARTUNI
In November 2000, the Martuni City Council's Board on Senior Citizens' Issues discussed the proposal on "Activities on Betterment of Women's Conditions in Martuni", presented by the Martuni Women's Community Council. The latter's goal was to draw the attention of local authorities to the difficult social conditions of Martuni women and to find ways of improving the situation. After the discussion the City Council made the following decision, to take effect as of November 23, 2000:
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Families with six and more children will be exempted from the land tax, and students of families with more than four children will receive free textbooks. These amounts will covered by the budget of the Mayor's Office.
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15 women of large families will be given the opportunity to attend free courses on computers.
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The water bills of some 30 families classified as vulnerable, of which 24 are refugees, will be covered by the budget of the Mayor's Office.
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7 large families, 2 of which are refugees, will receive humanitarian assistance.
Similar discussions on improving living conditions for women will take place in four other communities of the region: Vardenik, Lichk, N. Getashen, Tazagyugh.
Contact: Anahit Gevorgyan, Martuni Women's Community Council, Gegharkunik region, 8 Proshian St.; Tel.: (0 62) 4 22 01
THE PUBLISHING ACTIVITY OF THE CHARITABLE ASSOCIATION "NEUROHEREDITARY DISEASES"
For some three years now, the Charitable Association "Neurohereditary Diseases", with the assistance of the for-profit organization "Armat Medical Scientific Center", has published the independent monthly "Medical Information Newsletter" in Russian. Intended for both medical workers and the general public, the newsletter presents information on new development in the field, achievements and experiences of other countries, and reforms within Armenia's healthcare system. The newsletter articles fall under headings such as "Issue of the Day", "Doctor's Advice", "Genetics", "Neurohereditary Diseases", "Medical Digest", "Guest of the Editor", "News from the World". Scientists and specialists within Armenia provide articles on raising the level of awareness of medical workers and on issues related to reforms of the field.
Contact: Albert Matevosian, Charitable Association "Neurohereditary Diseases"; 10 Amiryan St.; apt. 15;
Tel.: (3741) 561781; E-mail: alamat@arminco.com
PROTECTING CONSUMERS' INTERESTS
"Anna" National Association of Consumers launched its newly developed Automated information System (AIS) "Protection of Consumers' Interests", February 27, 2001. Representatives of local and international organizations, Government officials and scientists attended the presentation. Melita Hakobian, Association President and AIS Project Director presided over the event and provided an overview of the role and the history of the creation of the system. The project was implemented with support from USAID under the terms of the grant received from the Eurasia Foundation Armenia Office. The AIS is a searchable system that provides information on testing of specific end products (organoleptic and microbial ratings, physical and chemical features, expiration dates, food values). The system was developed in Russian, but it will be translated into Armenian and English in the near future. The AIS can be accessed at http://yp.infocom.am/companies/eng/11.htm .
Contact: Melita Hakobian, "Anna" National Association of Consumers; 23 David Anhaght St.; Tel.: (3741) 249204; E-mail: anna_can@infocom.am
"YEREVAK"'S FOCUS ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES
February 9-11, 2001, the Noyemberian-based NGO "Yerevak" organized a seminar and roundtable on the topic "Community Development Problems". The events was part of the project "Regional Center of Community Development", implemented support from USAID under the terms of a grant from the Eurasia Foundation. The goal of the project is to assist in the development of the Noyemberyan communities, through the community members' participation in the decision-making processes and through strengthening their role. Seminar participants included community members, representatives of local self-government bodies, as well as local and international organizations involved in community development and local self-governing issues. Discussions centered on issues related to the strategy of community development, community budget planning and management, as well as improvement of the activities of the communities and local self-governing bodies. On the last day, issues related to community development projects, solution of crucial problems of the community and planning of the community budget were discussed. The participants expressed the idea that the cooperation with the NGOs will help the communities to solve the current social and economic problems and provide a systematic approach to the process.
Contact: Andranik Veranyan, "Yerevak" NGO, Noyemberyan, 2 Barekamutian St.; Tel.: (0 66) 2 26 08; Fax: (0 66) 2 26 08
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Contact Information:
| In Armenia: Armenian Assembly of America NGO Training and Resource Center 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St., Yerevan 375010 Tel.: (3-741) 54-40-12; 54-40-13; 53-92-04 Fax: (3-741) 54-40-15 E-mail: ngoc@ngoc.am Website: http://www.ngoc.am |
In the United States: Armenian Assembly of America NGO Training and Resource Center 122 C Street NW, Suite 350 Washington, DC 20001 USA Tel: (202) 393-3434; Fax: (202) 638-4904 E-mail: ngoc@aaainc.org Website: http://www.aaainc.org |
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VOLUME 2 No 3 - April 4, 2001
NGO CENTER LAUNCHED A NEW TRAINING PROGRAM
On March 15, the Armenian Assembly of America's NGO Training and Resource Center (AAA NGOC) launched the training program on "NGO Management" aimed at strengthening the capacity of local NGOs providing primary healthcare information and services. As a result of the request for applications announced by the NGO Center, the following eight NGOs were selected to participate in this program: Family Planning Association "For Family and Health"; "Pharmprogress" Youth Non-Governmental Organization; "Sakura" Charitable NGO; "Mekenas" Charitable Fund, "Husaber" Charitable Fund; "Armenian Women for Health and Healthy Environment"; "Neurohereditary Diseases" Charity Association; "Healthy Generation" Public Charity Fund. The program comprises the following components: Formal classroom training on NGO management; Strategic Planning Consultancies; Capacity Building Grants; Dialogue between the participant NGOs and interested parties; Executive Study Retreat; Graduation ceremony. The training component of the program ends May 24. Follow "Armenian NGO News in Brief" for updates on the training program process and the activities of the above mentioned NGOs.
Contact: Knarik Arabyan, NGO Center; Training and Consultancy Department Coordinator; 20 Yeznik Koghbatsu St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013;
E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am
NGO FORUM DISCUSSES PROBLEMS OF THE HEALTHCARE FIELD IN ARMENIA
On March 20, 2001 the Physicians' Association after Grigor Magistros convened a forum of non-governmental organizations acting in the healthcare field, to discuss urgent problems of interest to the participants. A number of healthcare NGOs, including some prominent professional associations, such as the Association of Physicians of Armenia, Young Physicians' Association, the Association of Armenian Dentists, "Arabkir" Fund, and others, raised important topics concerning the upcoming optimization of the healthcare system in Armenia, as well as problems related to the privatization of hospitals, the Value Added Tax (VAT) on medicine, licensing of medical service, the graduates from private universities, finding alternative ways to finance healthcare institutions, and many others. Forum participants also included representatives of the RoA National Assembly and the Ministry of Healthcare. Tigran Nersisyan, President of the Magistros Association and the initiator of the forum, summarized the speeches and suggested the Forum meet on a frequent basis in order to elaborate ways of addressing the problems faced by the healthcare field in general, and by professional medical associations, in particular. The idea was welcomed by the participants.
Contact: Tigran Nersisyan, Physicians' Association after Grigor Magistros; 2 Erebuni St.; Suit 409; Tel.: (3741) 525826; E-mail: magistros@doctor.am; http://www.magistros.am.
"HAZARASHEN" PRESENTS 'STORIES ON POVERTY"
On March 22, 2001, at Yerevan State University, "Hazarashen" Center for Ethnological Studies hosted the presentation of the newly published book "Stories on Poverty". Guests included representatives of local and international organizations, as well as experts in the field of poverty. The book was published by "Hazarashen" with funding support from the Armenia Office of the World Bank. "Stories on Poverty" is the result of interviews conducted by ethnographers-researchers throughout various regions of Armenia over the course of seven years. The first section of the book presents stories as related by the poor themselves. The second section is an analysis by the ethnographers-researchers of the phenomenon of poverty in Armenia. By combining analytical observations with the heroes' live speech the book enables the reader to have a complete picture of the world of poverty. The book is intended for Government structures and NGOs involved in poverty issues, as well as social workers and public at large.
Contact: Hranush Kharatyan, "Hazarashen" Center for Ethnological Studies; 1 Alek Manukian St.; Tel.: (3741) 657880; E-mail: azgagir@ysu.am
PREVENTING VAGRANCY AND MENDICANCY AMONG VANADZOR CHILDREN
Since January 1997, the Social Charitable NGO "Husatu" has provided daily hot meals to some 35 socially vulnerable and orphan children aged 5 to16 living in Vanadzor. This service is provided through the NGO's own resources, with support from various international organizations -- the Armenian Relief Fund, UN World Food Program, UMCOR, "Latter-Day Saints Charities" Armenian Corporation -- as well as in partnership with the Armenian Missionary Association. This effort aims at reducing vagrancy and mendicancy among Vanadzor children, thus easing social tensions. In exchange for being fed, the children have tasks: they serve the meals and afterwards clear the table, wash the dishes and clean the canteen. An entertainment center has been set up as part of the charitable canteen. There is a playroom, a library of children's books, a training room and a room of indoor plants where each child is responsible for caring for and nurturing a plant. Training sessions, reading and interesting games are organized after the meals.
Contact: Ara Arakelyan, Social Charitable NGO "Husatu", Vanadzor, 14 Nzdeh St.; Tel.: (374 051) 2 20 59; E-mail: arav@mail.com
YOUTH NGO "PHARMPROGRESS" RAISES AWARENESS
Since February 19, 2001, at the initiative of the Youth NGO "Pharmprogress" and with the assistance of the Yerevan branch of "Russian Radio", the medical information program "Radiodoctor" is broadcast on the radio on FM 104.9. The aim of the program is to provide the public at large with information on preventive healthcare. The program features three main segments. The first presents the latest news from the healthcare field. The second, entitled "The Unknown About the Known", informs radio listeners about hygiene products, food, household electric appliances and their positive and negative effects on the human organism. The third segment, "Do Not Harm", is about the negative effects of improperly used medicaments. This issue is very timely, given the lack of public awareness about the recently discovered side effects of some widely used medicaments. Listen to the program "Radiodoctor" on Mondays and Thursdays at 8:55 and on Tuesdays and Fridays on 19:55 and follow the doctor's advice.
Contact: Hrant Danagulyan, Youth NGO "Pharmprogress", 9 Sundukyan St., apt. 3; Tel.: (3741) 224813, 560309; E-mail: gdanag@usa.net
THE NGO "FAMILY AND NEW WORLD" SUPPORTING CHILDREN IN ABOVIAN
One of the recent projects implemented by the Abovian-based NGO "Family and New World" was the establishment of the summer camp "Chkuytik" (Little Finger) for children from socially vulnerable families. The goal of the camp was to improve the mental and physical health of 16 vulnerable children through classes, meals and sports. Previous studies by the NGO had revealed that very often children from socially vulnerable and large families didn't go to school at the appropriate age. In many cases, parents who were unable to feed and otherwise care for their children resorted to sending them to special boarding schools for mentally disabled children. At the camp, volunteer specialists -- teachers, psychologists and physicians -- provided the children with medical assistance, fed them and prepared them for school life by presenting them materials necessary for learning. The financial support for the establishment of the camp was provided by the City Hospital, City Children's Polyclinics and members of the community.
Contact: Julietta Ter-Martirosova, "Family and New World", Abovyan, 2 Kanaker St., # 38; Tel.: (374 61) 2 36 04; 2 11 27; E-mail: fnw@netsys.am
"ISSUES OF IRREGULAR MIGRATION AMONG WOMEN IN ARMENIA"
Recently the NGOs "Zartonk 89" and "Businesswomen" published the results of the social-psychological research "Issues of Irregular Migration among Women in Armenia". The brochure is a component of the program "Problems of Trafficking on Women during Irregular Migration", implemented within the framework of the "Small Grants Program" of the International Organization of Migration and the Armenian Sociological Association. The goal of the project was to study the hidden essence and forms of irregular migration, to provide psychological assistance to women who have become victims of the violence or illegal exploitation, to raise public awareness about the issue and to present the packet of suggestions on regulation of the problem to interested parties. The results of the study, presented in the brochure, allow the reader to learn about the issue and methods for its regulation and effective management.
Contact: Silva Vardanian, "Zartonk 89" NGO, 104 Sebastia St., Tel.: (3741) 773128; E-mail: zartonk@yahoo.com; Anahit Sargsyan, "Businesswoman" NGO, Tel.: (3741) 582776
HUMANISTIC ACTIVITIES OF UDE CONTINUE
Recently the Union of Doctors and Engineers (UDE) implemented the program "Design and Production of Wheelchairs for Disabled Children" with the funding support received from the "Latter-Day Saint Charities" Armenian Corporation. The program aimed at improving the life of 35 disabled and socially vulnerable children by providing them with specially designed wheelchairs. The wheelchairs were designed to be adapted to the specific needs and capabilities of each child. The wheelchairs were produced in the UDE's special Orthopedic Laboratory. The latter provided disabled youngsters with workplaces. Future plans of the Union of Doctors and Engineers include production of crutches and the establishment of a laboratory of maxillo-facial surgery to serve the needy with maxillo-facial defects and abnormalities. UDE also plans to create mobile clinics for dental care, neonatal reanimation, and diagnostic services.
Contact: Asya Khachatrian, Union of Doctors and Engineers, 6 Tumanian St.; Tel.: (3741) 560110; E-mail: medi@arminco.com
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2 No 4 - May 8, 2001
18 SOUP KITCHENS WILL BE OPENED IN YEREVAN AND REGIONS
On April 18, 2001 the opening ceremony of a soup kitchen established by the NGO "Mission Armenia" was held in Erebuni community of Yerevan. On weekdays, the soup kitchen will provide hot meals to almost 150 socially vulnerable people. On the basis of the soup kitchen a social center is planned to be established, where the beneficiaries will receive social, medical, legal and psychological consultancy. The soup kitchen is created under the USAID-funded "Social Transition Program" implemented by the "Mission Armenia" in cooperation with UMCOR. The project aims at providing vulnerable groups of Yerevan, Gegharkunik, Lori, Syunik and Shirak regions with social-medical services through humanitarian assistance and care. By year's end, there will be 18 soup kitchens operating in Yerevan and the above-mentioned regions, serving some 2350 vulnerable people.
Contact: Hripsime Kirakosian, "Mission Armenia", 22 Yeghbayrutian St.; Tel.: (3741) 444792; E-mail: ripsik@arminco.com
TO ENSURE HARMONIOUS PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDREN
For more than two years now, the All-Armenian NGO "Healthy Child" has conducted physical examinations of children in the Yerevan-based kindergartens #73 and #304 to reveal indicators of their physical preparedness. If deflections of growth are revealed, medical physical exercises are conducted, as well as massages. The teachers and parents are also instructed on methods of treating children with deflections of growth. Thus, thanks to the NGO "Healthy Child", the above-mentioned kindergartens have become children's training and medical centers, which offer preventive care to pre-school children, support their harmonious physical development and raise their level of preparedness.
Contact: Aram Sargsyan, All-Armenian NGO "Healthy Child"; 6a Shahsuvaryan St.; Tel.: (3741) 235414, 653707 E-mail:aroghjmanuk@ngoc.am
ASSISTANCE TO THE EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS WITH PROSTHESES AND REHABILITATION
Since November 2000 the Charitable NGO "Sakura" is implementing the project "Assistance to the Earthquake Victims with Prostheses and Rehabilitation" with financial support received from the Government of Japan. The goal of this project is to provide orthoses and prostheses to socially vulnerable disabled children up to 17 years of age who live in the disaster zone, as well as to continue their medical and social rehabilitation. By the end of the current year almost 300 orthoses and 40 prostheses will be produced in the Children's City Hospital #1. Within the framework of the project the NGO has published a factsheet and a brochure for children born with disorders or abnormalities of the limbs and for their families. These include recommendations for the normal development of children of particular ages, as well as descriptions of their treatment. The Charitable NGO "Sakura" plans to implement a project of producing special walkers.
Contact: Karen Koloyan, Charitable NGO "Sakura"; 5a Griboyedov St., #28; Tel.: (3741) 232429; E-mail: garkol@hypernet.am
CURRENT PROJECTS OF THE CHILDREN'S HEALTHCARE ASSOCIATION
The project "Early Diagnosis of Diseases and Deflections among Pre-School Children," implemented by the Children's Healthcare Association (CHA) is coming to its end. Within the framework of the project, started in September 2000 with the assistance of the Jinishian Memorial Foundation Armenia, almost 2000 children of Nor Nork community kindergartens have undergone diagnosis. Some have received medical treatment through the Association's resources. Another project "Medical assistance to children's medical institutions" is underway. Through this project the Association disseminates medicaments, medical products and equipment to children's medical institutions located in Yerevan, Artik, Dilijan, Artashat and Hrazdan. This assistance is provided by the Ministry of Defense of Greece and the Embassy of Greece in Armenia to the Armenian children.
Contact: Gevorg Boyajyan, Children's Healthcare Association, 30 Mamikonyants St., Tel.: (3741) 235411; E-mail: nairadoc@freenet.am
THANKS TO THE "HOUSING PURCHASE CERTIFICATE" PILOT PROJECT ALMOST 300 FAMILIES OF GYUMRI WILL HAVE NEW HOUSES
The "Housing Purchase Certificate" (HPC) pilot project was funded by USAID and implemented by the "Urban Institute." The Gyumri-based NGOs "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center and Shirak Regional Branch of the "Armenian Center of Human Rights Protection after A. D. Sakharov" had their unique participation in the project. The purpose of the project is provision of housing through non-refundable subsidies to households, which lost housing because of 1988 earthquake and had not received compensation to date. The above-mentioned NGOs conducted a public awareness campaign concerning goals and objectives of HPC Program, ensured constant contact between the Program Manager and the targeted population, and supported most vulnerable beneficiaries in their home search efforts. They also assisted the Program Manager in monitoring the removal of temporary dwellings (domics) from the site and in disseminating the certificates among beneficiaries, who also received help in signing agreements with the Municipality and having these notarized.
Contact: Vehanoush Hovhannissyan, "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center, Gyumri, 52 Nizami St., Tel.: (374 41) 4 21 51; E-mail: meghvik@shirak.am; Seyran Martirossyan, Shirak Regional Branch of the "Armenian Center of Human Rights Protection after A. D. Sakharov"
THE PRESS COVERAGE OF NGO SECTOR
Strengthening and development of the NGO sector in civil society context is largely dependent on NGOs' successful co-operation with the mass media. Therefore, the media coverage of the NGO sector is crucial both from qualitative and quantitative perspectives. Moreover, effective NGO-mass media links lead to journalists' increased knowledge of NGO activities and promote their in-depth perception of NGO-sector specifics. This, in its turn, positively affects the quality of NGO-related coverage by the mass media.
Here we present the summary results of the latest analysis (Jan-March, 2001) of press coverage of social and primary health care spheres drawn from the following newspapers: "Hayastani Hanrapetutyun" (Republic of Armenia), "Azg" (Nation), "Yerkir" (Country), "Aravot" (Morning) and "Zhamanak" (Times) dailies, "Golos Armenii" (Voice of Armenia) bi-weekly, and "Noyan Tapan Highlights" weekly. Only 26% of the coverage highlighting the abovementioned spheres referred to NGOs providing social and primary health care services and/or information. Consequently, the largest part (74%) reflected the activities of relevant state authorities (Government, Ministries of Social Security and Health, different state agencies, programs, and local authorities). This comes to prove that in the aforementioned spheres the scopes of activities and jurisdictions of NGOs are so far very limited.
We anticipate that along with growth of support to the NGOs dealing with social and primary health care problems, these organizations will become more active and visible, their impact in the society will rise, and furthermore, the quantity and quality of media coverage of this sector will improve. The AAA NGO Center will watch closely at processes in the sector, will analyze and present those in its future reviews.
Contact: Aramazd Ghalamkaryan, PR Specialist, NGO Training and Resource Center; E-mail: aramazd@ngoc.am
NGO COMBATS CHEMICAL TOXIC AGENTS AND PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS
The project "Risk Measurement of Chemical Toxic Agents and Creation of an Information Network of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)" is being implemented by the NGO "Armenian Women for Health and Healthy Environment." The goal of the project is to measure the effect of POPs on the reproductive health of women. Surveys were conducted among women living in Shengavit Community of Yerevan, and the Sevan and Masis regions, which revealed a great frequency of pathologies such as sterility, infectious diseases, birth defects, frequent miscarriages. The NGO prepared an information packet on POPs and their influence on reproductive health. In polyclinics, the experts of the NGO work on raising the awareness of women of reproductive age. To raise public awareness on POPs, information campaigns are conducted through the mass media and information booklets. In addition, the NGO trains socially active women to conduct lobbying among decision makers of relevant state bodies in order to influence public policy in this sphere.
Contact: Yelena Manvelyan, "Armenian Women for Health and Healthy Environment" NGO; 24, Saryan St., apt. 65; Tel.: (3741) 626620; E-mail: elena@awhhe.am
"NURTURING NGO DEVELOPMENT AND PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE IN THE CAUCASUS" PROGRESS
Opportunities, Successes, Difficulties was the title of the workshop, which took place on April 10-12, 2001 in Tbilisi, Georgia, within the program "Nurturing NGO Development and Peaceful Co-existence in the Caucasus." The Program aims at supporting the growth of a tolerant civil society through non-governmental organizations and is carried out by the Canadian Feed the Children organization (CFTC) in Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.
The Workshop discussed and summarized the Program's first year's results, as well as provided a forum for exchange of information and lessons learned amongst Program partners on general developments of the Program in each of the countries. Discussions and presentations focused on changes within each of the organizations that had occurred in the process of the Program, recommendations towards improvements and how well the Program was integrated into general activities of partner organizations. A special session was devoted to the impact of the Program and to future plans.
As part of experience exchange between partners, two training sessions - "Improving the Efficiency Level of an Organization's Performance" and "Project Evaluation" - were conducted by Armenian and Georgian training organizations.
All partners of CFTC within the Program took part in the workshop: The Association of IDP Women, Tbilisi, Georgia; Horizonti Foundation, Tbilisi, Georgia; Non-governmental organization "Sulh", Baku, Azerbaijan; ISAR-Azerbaijan, Baku, Azerbaijan; NGO Training and Resource Center, Baku, Azerbaijan; "Meghvik" Educational Center, Gyumri, Armenia; Armenian Assembly of America's NGO Training and Resource Center, Yerevan, Armenia.
Contact: Margaret Piliposian, NGO Training and Resource Center Director;
E-mail: maga@ngoc.am
AAA NGOC ANNOUNCEMENT
The Armenian Assembly of America's NGO Training & Resource Center (NGOC) under the "Armenia NGO Development Program In Support of USAID's Social Transition Reform and the Earthquake Zone Program" announces the 2001 Travel Grants Program for indigenous NGOs providing social and primary health care information and services to participate in relevant conferences, workshops, and internship programs and other events to take place in USA, Europe, CIS member countries, and elsewhere.
For more information on submission of applications, guidelines and timetable contact the AAA NGOC Grants Management Unit.
Our address: 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St., Yerevan.
Phone Nos. 54-40-12, 54-40-13, and 53-92-04
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2 No 5 - June 21, 2001
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WELCOME INCREASING COOPERATION WITH LOCAL NGO SECTOR
On May 15, 2001 the AAA NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) hosted a meeting with leaders of the Armenian mass media to present the NGOC's current projects and to discuss ways of improving cooperation between NGOs and the media. Present at the meeting were representatives of the "Prometheus" and "AR" Television companies, Public TV of Armenia, as well as "Iravunk," "Golos Armenii," "Hayastani Hanrapetutyun" and "Azg" newspapers. In her opening remarks, Margarit Piliposyan, NGOC Director, gave a brief overview of the projects implemented by the Center, then steered the discussion to ways of expanding NGO-Mass media liaisons. Mass Media representatives emphasized their willingness to cooperate with the NGO Center and the NGOs. Participants concluded with the suggestion to the NGO-Media Coordinating Council to support and direct the relationships between NGOs providing social and primary health care services and/or information and the local mass media. The media representatives agreed to each designate a journalist covering social and health care issues to work together with the NGO Center to develop detailed plans of upcoming round table discussions.
Contact: Margarit Piliposyan, NGO Training and Resource Center, 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; E-mail: maga@ngoc.am
PYUNIC UNION PRESENTS A BOOK AND A FILM
On May 11, 2001 the AAA NGO Training and Resource Center hosted the presentation of the book "The Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities" and the film "Water Dance" by Pyunic Union of the Disabled. The film, that tells a story of a disabled living abroad, and the translation of the book from English and its publication were made possible through funding from the NGOC as part of its "Advocacy - the Catalyst of Integration" project. During the event Hakob Abrahamyan, President of the Union, briefly presented "Pyunic"'s past and current activities and future plans. He highlighted Pyunic's sailing team that competed in last year's Paralympic games in Sydney, various fundraising activities, the newsletter "Pyunic Highlights", the website www.pyunic.am, and other projects implemented by the organization. Representatives of local and international organizations participated in the event.
Contact: Hakob Abrahamyan, Pyunic Union of the Disabled; 16 Tsitsernakaberd Str.; Tel.: (3741) 560707, Fax: 560817; E-mail: pyunic@arminco.com
REPORT OF THE "ASTGHIK" UNION'S "ARABKIR" BRANCH
On May 11, 2001, in the "Kanaz" Cultural Center, the "Arabkir" branch of the "Astghik" Union of Disabled Children's Parents, convened a meeting to report on their recent activities, and to screen videofilms produced by the Union. Levon Nersisyan, President of the "Astghik" Union, opened the meeting. Nvard Mirzoyan, Head of the Arabkir Community branch (established in 1995), presented the implemented activities, participants and supporters, current problems, as well as the planned projects, such as the creation of rehabilitation centers, which will become alternative institutions for provision of services to disabled children. The report was followed by screening of two videofilms - "Hello Sun" and "Passage for Everybody", highlighting the activities of the "Astghik" Union, that brings together more than 2000 families. The films present problems faced by disabled children, as well as some of the projects undertaken to address their needs, such as reconstruction of Yerevan downtown pavements, demonstrations of disabled in wheelchairs, exhibitions of the children's artworks, and various scientific and advocacy projects. A number of the Union's supporters, as well as representatives of the UNDP Armenia office, the National Assembly and local authorities were present and took part in the discussion.
Contact: Levon Nersisyan, "Astghik" Union of Disabled Children's Parents; 1 Charents St., 4th floor; Tel.: (3741) 575185; Fax: 151-119; E-mail: levast@netsys.am
"DAY CENTER" FOR PEOPLE WITH PROBLEMS OF MENTAL HEALTH
Since October 2000, the Mental Health Foundation has funded a "Day Center", that provides psychological and social services to people with mental health problems. The Center, which is unique in its format, is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Every day, visitors can receive individual consultations and psychotherapy by the Center psychologist. They also take part in psychotherapy sessions, aimed at establishing close relations between group members, raising their level of self-consciousness and reinforcing the results of the individual therapy. Hobby groups of painting, pottery and dramatic art have been created within the Center. English language classes are also available. A self-assistance group has been formed, where visitors find solutions to various mental health problems. They are also provided entertainment such as games, TV, library, etc. The Center also provides the visitors' meals and transportation. Although the Center has just recently started its activities, positive results are already apparent: improvement of the visitors' moods, establishment of close relationships among them, willingness to participate in events. The visitors and the Center staff have already become a unified group in pursuit of their common goal.
Contact: Arman Vardanyan, Mental Health Foundation; 5 Arshakuniats St.; Tel.: (3741) 571603; E-mail: mhf@mentalhealth.am; Website: http://mentalhealth.am
PROMOTING DIALOGUE BETWEEN NGOs AND THE AUTHORITIES
On May 14, 2001, the NGO Training and Resource Center hosted an encounter between NGOs and representatives of the RoA Ministries of Health and Social Welfare. The encounter was part of the NGOC's "NGO Management" training program, which began March 15 of this year. The goal of the program is to strengthen the capacity of eight local NGOs working in the healthcare field. The dialogue event organized by the NGO Center encompassed the following issues: regulations regarding licensing and referrals in the healthcare field; advocacy activities directed at primary health protection; information exchange; medical insurance; NGO participation in state programs; cooperative committees of NGOs and state structures; mutual assistance in expertise; social dialogue and cooperation.
Participants included the Advisor to the RoA Minister of Social Welfare, representatives of the Department of the Primary Health Protection of the RoA Ministry of Health, the Department of Social Dialogue of the Public Relations Department of the RoA Ministry of Social Welfare, as well as the Family Planning Association "For Family and Health"; "Sakura" Charitable NGO; "Pharmprogress" Youth Non-Governmental Organization; "Husaber" Charitable Fund; "Mekenas" Charitable Fund; "Healthy Generation" Public Charitable Foundation; "Armenian Women for Health and Healthy Environment" NGO; Charity Association "Neurohereditary Diseases".
Contact: Knarik Arabyan, NGO Center Training and Consultancy Department Coordinator, 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am
PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE AND SANITARY-ADVOCACY TRAINING PROGRAM IN 6 VILLAGES OF THE APARAN REGION
The "Future Generation Union" NGO, with the financial support received from the British Charitable Organization "OXFAM", is implementing the project entitled "Preventive Healthcare and Sanitary-Advocacy Training". Implementation started in July, 2000, targeting six villages of the Aparan region of the Aragatsotn marz. The two main goals of the project are: to assist formation of healthy lifestyle within the younger generation and to raise awareness of children, teachers and parents about healthcare issues. To achieve these goals, training courses have been conducted among teachers and nurses. Practical courses have been held alongside with the theoretical part of the training. The gained knowledge and theoretical didactic materials were transferred to schoolchildren. In the villages almost 1600 children have been examined, resulting in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases of intestines, skin and parasites.
Contact: Rafael Vardanyan, "Future Generation Union" NGO; 61/7 Marshal Baghramian Ave.; Tel.: (3741) 276519, 270036; E-mail: futgen@netsys.am
THE NGO "PERFECT LIFE" FOR THE STEPANAVAN DISABLED
The NGO "Perfect Life" has been working in Stepanavan since 1998. The mission of the NGO is the health protection of the disabled living in the region and meeting their educational and social needs. Within the framework of the project "Perfect Life for the Disabled", through seminars, organized among the disabled and their families, the organization strives to develop the understanding that disability is not a disease, but a way of life. Another project, "Arevatsag", aimed at raising the awareness of the disabled on their own rights and providing them with public support. With the assistance of UMCOR, World Vision and the organization "Latter Days Saints", the NGO periodically distributes humanitarian assistance among the disabled and their families. As part of the project "Accessible Environment for the Disabled", the NGO presents petitions to architects to make the new buildings in Stepanavan wheelchair accessible. In June 2001, with financial support from the USA Peace Corps, the integrated training program "Peaceful Corner" will be launched. Through this program English language and computer courses will be conducted among the beneficiaries.
Contact: Suren Maghakyan, NGO "Perfect Life", Stepanavan, 4th district, 6 4th St.; Tel.: (0 56) 22058; Fax: (0 56) 22721
ADVOCACY OF THE "ANAHIT" MATERNITY FUND
Over the course of the past months, the "AR", "Noyan Tapan" and "Prometheus" TV Channels aired four programs produced by the "Anahit" Maternity Fund. A number of articles were also presented in the print media. The advocacy pieces targeted the solution of the social support problem faced by pregnant women of vulnerable families, specifically targeting RoA Government decree #255 (dated March 30, 2001), according to which women in childbirth should pay 15,000 drams in Yerevan and 10,000 drams in regions. The advocacy campaign run by the Fund was successful and resulted in the decree being overturned.
Contact: Fedia Gspoyan, "Anahit" Maternity Fund"; 33-18 Avan; Tel.: (3741) 610857; Fax: 565587
THE UNION OF DOCTORS AND ENGINEERS CONTINUES ASSISTING THE DISABLED
Within the "Small Grants Program" of the World Bank, the Union of Doctors and Engineers has started implementation of the project that implies production of forearm crutches. The project is another step towards assisting vulnerable disabled, children in particular. The beneficiaries will receive the produced forearm crutches for free. In addition to aiding the vulnerable, the project is important in the sense that it will establish the production of crutches in Armenia.
Contact: Asya Khachatryan, Union of Doctors and Engineers; 6 Tumanyan St.; Tel.: (3741) 544546; 525080
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2 No 6 - July 9, 2001
"NGO CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM-4"
Since 1997, UNHCR/Armenia and the AAA NGOC have implemented joint capacity building programs for NGOs seeking to address the social and protection needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and those who are acquiring citizenship. In May 2001, the NGOC and UNHCR launched the most recent phase of the joint program, "NGO Capacity Building Program-4". It specifically targets the 15 region-based NGOs who received support in the previous phase. These NGOs serve the regions of Gegharkounik, Vayots Dzor and Ararat, which have heavy refugee populations. The program will focus on improving the NGOs' effectiveness by further strengthening their service, human and management capacities. This will contribute to enhancing their sustainability and self-reliance, and lead to improved cooperation and networking among NGOs, other civil society players and government structures, ultimately resulting in healthier, more productive communities. The program implies the following components: training; consultancy; cooperation; open dialogue; funding and executive study retreat.
Contact: Knarik Arabyan, NGO Center Training and Consultancy Department Coordinator; Tel.: 544012; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am
"HEALTH PROTECTION OF THE POPULATION THROUGH DIAGNOSIS OF HEREDITARY DISEASES"
This project, aimed at early diagnosis of hereditary diseases, was recently implemented by the Public Charitable Foundation "Healthy Generation". The goal of the eighteen month project was to reveal and treat one of the most widespread diseases among Armenians - Periodic Disease. With the assistance of the Swiss organization "Armenia Foundation" the population of Yerevan, Sevan, Armavir, Akhalkalak and Artsakh were examined.The NGO distributed medication free of charge among those suffering from the above mentioned disease. The NGO is currently working on a new project that targets children living in boarding houses. The goal of the project is to diagnose the Periodic Disease among the children and to provide them with treatment for the purpose of preventing further complications.
Contact: Margarita Nazaryan, Public Charitable Foundation "Healthy Generation", 5/1 Zakian St.; Tel.: (3741) 544367
LEGAL CONSULTANCY TO REFUGEES, LIVING IN TAVUSH AND GEGHARKUNIK REGIONS
Since January 2001, the "Araza" Charitable NGO has been implementing a "Rights Protection" project whereby the provision of legal advisory services has been established in 6 remote villages of the Tavush and Gegharkunik regions. Both these regions have large refugee populations. In the permanently functioning offices, the refugees can receive legal advice and guidance on various social, economic and other problems regarding their acquiring citizenship. The "Araza" NGO also organizes periodic public events where invited experts comment on the RoA Government decree, dated December 6, 2000, on "State, Legal, Social and Economic Guarantees for the people, displaced from Azerbaijan from 1988 through 1992 and acquired RoA citizenship". During these events, lawyers, social workers and village governors are present to answer questions. Funding for the project is provided by Chemonics International and UNDP.
Contact: Tamara Abrahamyan, "Araza" Charitable NGO; 3 Kievyan St., #30; Tel.: (3741) 270688; 227097; E-mail: araza@acc.am
DANISH REFUGEE COUNCIL'S "SUB-REGIONAL NGO NETWORKING PROJECT"
In May 2001, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) launched a regional project, aimed at supporting the formation and establishment of a network of local NGOs working with refugees, internally displaced persons and other groups living under refugee conditions throughout the Caucasus. The project was initiated with a conference in Baku held in March, 2001, and entitled "The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations: From Refugee to Durable Solutions in the Caucasus-Constraints, Dilemmas and Possibilities". The conference aimed at highlighting the role of NGOs in solving these essential problems, and perspectives of peace and stability. The above mentioned project will be implemented through DRC focal points in the South and North Caucasus. AAA NGO Center is the focal point in Armenia. The project includes the following components:
· Creation of the sub-regional NGO Network: to strengthen the working relationships between the participating NGOs, which will have the capacity to lobby governments, respond to emergency situations, engage in rehabilitation and development processes and support peace and stability in the region.
· Small project fund on national and sub-regional levels: to support the work of the NGOs, strengthen cooperation within and between the CIS Migration conference working groups and increase information flow on refugee/IDP issues.
· Information and communication strategy: to enhance and support the exchange of information and experience sharing between NGOs and the relevant actors.
Contact: Margarit Piliposyan, AAA NGO Center Director; Tel,: 544012; 544013; E-mail: maga@ngoc.am
"ARABKIR" FOUNDATION BENEEFITS FROM GENEVA FUNDRAISING
Recently, as a result of the fundraising efforts of the UN Women's Club in Geneva, five thousand Swiss Franks were raised for the "Arabkir" United Children's Charity Foundation to continue its "Juvenile Diabetes Program", which is the sole non-governmental one in Armenia. The vital program has been implemented since 1996 with the assistance of the Swiss Foundation SEMRA. "Diabetes School" was created in the Yerevan-based "Arbes" Health Center, where insulin-dependant diabetic children under the age 15 are treated free of charge and monitored by doctors. They are given insulin, syringes, meters measuring the level of sugar in the blood and urine. The Center staff provides the children with general information about diabetes, trains them to independently conduct urine and blood tests and to regulate the correct insulin dose. The children and their parents together learn about appropriate diet and to prepare healthy meals. Thanks to the generosity of the UN Women's club, Arabkir can continue this costly, but most vital project.
Contact: Manushak Yeritsyan, "Arabkir" United Children's Charity Foundation, 30 Mamikonyants St.; Tel.: 285598; E-mail: aramc@arminco.com; arbes_health@altavista.com
YEGHEGNADZOR MATERNITY HOSPITAL EQUIPMENT GETS MUCH NEEDED REPAIRS
This project, implemented by the Union of Doctors and Engineers, is coming to its end. It involves the repair and renovation of the medical equipment and instruments; training courses for the medical personnel on their proper usage and maintenance; and a course on intensive therapy on post-natal care of children. The Yeghegnadzor Maternity Hospital serves more than eight thousand families, living in Yeghegnadzor and neighboring regions. Funding for the project is provided by OXFAM.
Contact: Asya Khachatryan, Union of Doctors and Engineers, 6 Tumanyan St.; Tel.: 525080; Fax: 544546; E-mail: medi@arminco.com
THE MISSION OF THE REHABILITATION AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER OF THE FUND AGAINST LEGAL ARBITRARINESS
In September 1, 2000, the Fund Against Legal Arbitrariness established the Armenian Rehabilitation and Development Center for victims of torture. The Center serves family members of people missing during the Karabakh conflict or the ceasefire, returned political prisoners and prisoners of war, refugees, and others who have experienced torture and violence. Services are provided by the experienced Center staff - physician, psychotherapist, neurologist, surgeon, psychologist, legal specialist, and social worker. Since opening its doors, the Center has assisted some 350 individuals, who have undergone a full course of medical and psychological rehabilitation, and have received social and legal counseling. The Center operations are funded by the UN Volunteers' Fund for Victims of Torture of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Contact: Larisa Alaverdyan, Fund Against Legal Arbitrariness; 6 Arshakuniats St.; Tel.: 568272; E-mail: favl@intarnet.am
PRESENTATION AT IDHR NGO
On June 27, 2001, the NGO "Institute of Democracy and Human Rights" (IDHR) hosted a presentation of its new project "Ways of Poverty Eradication in Armenia", supported by the OXFAM Armenia office. The project contemplates the implementation of a series of activities aimed at eliminating poverty in Armenia and at specifying perspectives to fight the problem. Proposed activities include public discussions in Yerevan and seven marzes of Armenia, a competitions to solicit articles on poverty eradication, monthly club meetings, as well as the publication of a series of research papers and books.
In her opening remarks, Melineh Tovmasyan, Executive Director of IDHR presented the organization and the new project to the guests. Then a number of speakers - Margarita Hakobyan, OXFAM Armenia Office Director; Razmik Martirosyan, Minister of Social Welfare; Hasmik Khachatryan, Co-Chairwoman of the Social League; Larisa Alaverdyan, President of the Fund Against Legal Arbitrariness, and others - welcomed the launch of the Project and expressed their support to the IDHR.
Contact: Meline Tovmasyan, Executive Director of IDHR; 4/1 Aygedzor St.; Tel.: (3741) 264712; E-mail: idhr@acc.am
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 7 - July 24, 2001
NGO TRAINING AND RESOURCE CENTER'S GYUMRI FOCAL POINT STARTS ITS ACTIVITIES
As part of the NGO Training and Resource Center's "NGO Development Program in Support of USAID's Social Transition Reform and Earthquake Zone Programs", the newly-established Gyumri Focal Point will support the NGOC's "Community Development in the Earthquake Zone" component. It involves working with and strengthening selected communities in the Shirak and Lori regions by empowering them to engage in their own self-directed development. The Gyumri Focal Point, in cooperation with the NGOC's Yerevan office will provide the following services to the local communities: Management training; Consultancy services; Access to communications/information; Open dialogue activities; and small grants.
Contact: Flora Sargsyan; NGOC Gyumri Focal Point; 1/4 Rizkov St.; Tel.: (041) 23897
TRAINING ON THE TOPIC "ISSUES RELATED TO STRESS"
"Tatev 95" Center for Psychological Assistance and Consultancy conducted a training course on the topic "Issues related to stress" to representatives of 13 NGOs, providing assistance to vulnerable groups of populations (refugees, orphans, elderly). The training program, held at the NGOC from June 8-28, 2001, aimed at transferring knowledge and skills on stress identification and management to the participants. Through this course the participants acquired basic knowledge about stress, its sources and forms, stressful situations and psychological traumas. Also, the course enabled the NGO representatives to strengthen their individual support systems, to establish proper relations with their beneficiaries and people in general and to provide primary psychological assistance to beneficiaries.
Contact: Anahit Tevossyan, "Tatev 95" Center for Psychological Assistance and Consultancy, 2 Baghramyan St., #42, Tel.: (3742) 562300, E-mail: tatev95@arminco.com
SUMMER CAMP FOR CHILDREN OF SOCIALLY VULNERABLE FAMILIES OF MOUGHNI
July 6, 2001 the NGO "Moughni Health Center" marked the start of summer camp for elementary school age children from socially vulnerable families within the Moughni community. The camp takes place in two one-month sessions and will benefit some 120 children. The children receive training on hygiene, rules of conduct and Christian topics and also enjoy organized games, sporting activities and hiking trips. All meals are provided by the organizers. The camp is made possible through the financial support of the Aragatsotn Eparchy of the Armenian Apostolic Church, St. Gevorg Church of Moughni, as well as through the Moughni Health Center's own resources.
Contact: Movses Sargsyan, Moughni Health Center, Ashtarak; Tel.: (032) 36629; 35339; E-mail: mhc@nsr.am
"YES FOR CHILDREN"
On June 27, 2001, a children's and youth forum, called "Yes for Children" was held at the Yerevan House of Chamber Music. The forum was organized by the Association "For Family and Health" within the framework of the "Global Movement for Children". The message of the movement is as follows: the citizens of the world should take care of children and demand that governments fulfill their promises. Today, through the Internet (http://www.gmfc.org) and other means, you can say "Yes" to ten imperative actions, which must be undertaken in order to improve the lives of children. The results of the campaign, held in various countries and in cyberspace, will be presented in September 2001 at the Special Session on Children, organized by the UN General Assembly in New York. The movement will then take the message of the Special Session to the world, and hold leaders accountable for the agreements they have made. Many children and young people, as well as representatives of international, governmental and non-governmental structures participated in the June 27 forum in Yerevan. They delivered various messages and spoke about the educational, health, legal, social and economic problems the children of Armenia face today.
Contact: Mary Khachikyan, Association "For Family and Health", 14/1 Vardanants St.; Tel.: (3741) 540814; 540815; E-mail: armfpa@arminco.com
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT THROUGH SMALL FARMS
The NGO "People for Healthy Lifestyle" is implementing the project "Creation of small farms", with the assistance of the American organization "Heifer Project International" (HPI). The project supports the development of communities of Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor, Aragatsotn and Tavush regions. The socially vulnerable population of these communities receives granger's cattle in the reproductive period and mixed fodder with the stipulation that they keep the first profit, and transfer any additional profit to other vulnerable members of the community. The project is based on the principle of the HPI 12 cornerstones, entitled "Passing gifts". They are as follows: accountability; sharing and caring; sustainability and self-reliance; improved animal management; nutrition and income; genuine need and justice; gender and family focus; improving the environment; full participation; training and education; and spirituality.
Contact: Knarine Ghazanchyan, People for Healthy Lifestyle; 16th district, building 14, apt. 13; Tel.: (3741) 341599, 530854; E-mail: anahit@umcor.am
"MISSION ARMENIA" ENTITY IS CREATED IN AUSTRALIA
On the initiative of the local Armenian community, the Australian Branch of Mission Armenia branch has been established. Its mission is:
· to raise awareness among Australians (of both Armenian and non-Armenian descent) of the situation of the socially vulnerable groups in Armenia, in particular the refugees, the single elderly and the disabled;
· to raise awareness among Australians of the work of "Mission Armenia" with hese three groups;
· to mobilise Australians to become actively involved in the work of "Mission Armenia", by financially supporting specific projects and offering their volunteer time.
In so doing, the entity will support the work of "Mission Armenia" to the benefit of the socially vulnerable groups in Armenia.
Contact: Armen Gakavyan on 9876 9459, Robert Grigoryan on 9808 2302; E-mail: mission_armenia@yahoo.com.au in Australia, or
Hripsime Kirakossyan, President, "Mission Armenia" in Armenia, 22 Yeghbayrutian St., #68; Tel.: (3742) 427608, 427658; E-mail: ripsik@arminco.com
"CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH CARE CENTER" OPENS IN ARMENIA
On July 10, 2001, the opening ceremony for the "Child and Adolescent Mental Health Care Center" was held. The Center has been created by the Association of Child Psychiatrists and Psychologists, which brings together psychiatrists, psychologists and other professionals who focus on the mental health problems of children. The goal of the Center is to provide multi-faceted treatment to children with various mental health problems, that is, to provide ongoing professional care to children and adolescents who have advanced symptoms of mental health problems. The Center's services are based on outpatient treatment through methods of individual, family, group and behavioral psychotherapy. The treatment program of each patient is developed by a key person (psychologist or psychotherapist) and is discussed with other specialists affiliated with the Center. Scientific and clinical monitoring is also provided by the Center Consultant. The Center's activities are sponsored by the Catholic Fund for Overseas Development.
Contact: Khachatur Gasparyan, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Care Project Director, 6 Yekmalyan St., 5th floor; Tel.: (3741) 537691; E-mail: acpp@freenet.am
"LET'S BUILD A HOUSE, A COMMUNITY, A HOMELAND"
For already two years, the Charitable NGO "Armenian Habitat", under the motto "Let's build a house, a community, a homeland", assists vulnerable families in the Yerevan, Aragatsotn, Armavir, Ararat and Kotayk regions by solving their housing problems. Thus, in 2000 "Armenian Habitat" assisted seven families of the above-mentioned regions to buy and repair, build and finish semi-built houses. This year, those vulnerable families possessing semi-built houses and no means to finish the construction are in the focus of the NGO. Ten families, selected competitively, will be provided with long-term and interest-free loans. The NGO also provides construction materials. The international organization "Habitat for Humanity International" assists the NGO to implement this activity.
Contact: Arthur Harutiunyan, Charitable NGO "Armenian Habitat", 40 Tumanyan St., apt. 50; Tel.: (3741) 532257; E-mail: armenianhabitat@hotmail.com
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2 No 8 - August 20, 2001
235 NGO REPRESENTATIVES HAVE PARTICIPATED IN THE INTERNET TRAINING COURSES OFFERED BY NGO CENTER Since February 1997, the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) has offered Internet training courses to NGOs registered with the NGOC. Some 235 participants have benefited from this training to date. On average, there are four NGOs per training group. The course lasts five days and includes the following topics: Introduction to computers, networks and the Internet; WWW addresses; Internet Explorer main functions; Searching information on the Web; Search engines; E-mail. Contact: Anahit Frangyan, NGOC Internet Services Manager; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: tita@ngoc.am
On June 27, the NGO "Family for World Peace and Unification", with the assistance of the International Foundation for Education and Kotayk Municipality, organized a presentation for the students of three Hrasdan Universities and schoolteachers. The presentation was entitled "Character formation, marriage and family" and included topics on character, love, marriage and family relationships. The NGO plans to hold similar presentations in other regions of Armenia. Contact: Hovhanness Barseghyan, "Family for World Peace and Unification" NGO; 193 Muratsan St.; Tel./Fax: (3741) 257296; E-mail: ffwpu@hotmail.com
The project "Charity without borders", implemented by the NGO "Apaven" Armenian International Charitable Social Organization, provides humanitarian assistance to vulnerable groups and advocates the concept of charity. With the assistance of the RoA Ministries of Social Welfare and Health, as well as various benefactors, care, social-psychological, medical, legal and material assistance are provided on a ongoing basis to the single elderly, disabled, orphans, war veterans and single mothers living in Yerevan and the regions. Contact: Narine Balayan, "Apaven" Armenian International Charitable Social Organization; 69 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 538097, 409054; E-mail: itsi@hypernet.am LEGAL KNOWLEDGE TO THE NGOs On August 8, the NGO Center hosted the presentation of the handbook entitled "Involvement in the procurement process in the RoA". Designed by the NGO Training and Resource Center, the handbook provides an introduction to the RoA Law on Procurement to NGOs, thus enabling them to be informed about their rights and responsibilities, the competition process and selection mechanisms, and to become involved in the procurement process. During the presentation, the NGOC's Legal Specialist briefly described the Law, highlighting the fact that the involvement of NGOs-particularly those dealing with social and primary healthcare issues-in the procurement process will contribute to the effectiveness of their services. During the presentation one copy of the handbook was provided to each participant. Such seminars will be organized by the NGOC on a regular basis and will focus on discussion of the RoA Law on Procurement, as well as the involvement of the NGOs in the state procurement process as provided by law. Contact: Anna Kurdova, NGOC Legal Specialist; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: anna@ngoc.am
The European Congress on Asthma and the Assembly on Immunology and Allergology will be held in Moscow, September 9-14, 2001. A travel grant provided by the NGO Center will enable Marina Ohanyan, representative of the NGO "Armenian Association of Family Physicians", to participate in both events. As stated by Ms. Ohanyan, the knowledge, modern methods and materials acquired during the events, will strengthen not only the human resource capacities of the NGO, but will also enable her to apply them practically to achieve the following goals: betterment of the health conditions of frequently sick children; prevention of asthma; provision of quality services to people suffering from asthma and allergic diseases. Contact: Marina Ohanyan, "Armenian Association of Family Physicians" NGO; 49/4 Komitas St.; Tel.: (3741) 234851; E-mail: diana_avetisyan@hotmail.com
The Small Project Fund is a component of the "Regional NGO Network" program, implemented by the Danish Refugee Council in the Caucasus. The goal of the Small Project Fund, both at the national and regional levels, is to support the work of NGOs, strengthen cooperation within and between the CIS Migration Conference working groups and increase information flow on refugee/IDP issues. The Small Project Fund priorities are: Awareness raising; Training; Peace building; Research; Self-reliance; Confidence building. The following Armenian NGOs have received grants to implement the mentioned projects:
The NGOC is the Armenia focal point for the DRC program. Contact: Margarit Piliposyan, NGOC Director, 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: maga@ngoc.am
On August 14, 2001, the NGO Center hosted presentation of the "Report on Some Aspects of Commercial Sex Work in Armenia", published by the UN Population Fund and based on survey implemented by the NGO "Hope and Help". The survey, conducted among Yerevan, Gyumri, Kapan and Vanadzor prostitutes, attempts to uncover the economic, social, legal, moral, cultural and health aspects of the expanding commercial sex (prostitution) phenomenon. The Report was presented by Yenok Shatvoryan, Chairman of the "Hope and Help", and Karen Daduryan, UNFPA National Program Officer. Present at the event were representatives of local and international organizations, state structures and mass media. Contact: Yenok Shatvoryan, 32 Fuchik St.; Tel.: (3741) 226965; E-mail: hophelp@freenet.am Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 9 - September 27, 2001
SYMPATHY WILL SAVE THE WORLD
For some two years now, the "Ego" Young Psychologists Center has been implementing the project "Sympathy will save the world", which aims at providing psychological assistance to young people and helping to resolve the individual and group problems of youth. Techniques used by the psychologists include conversations, consultancy and relaxation sessions. To date, 85 visitors have benefited from the offered services. As stated by Marianna Frunjyan, Chairwoman of the "Ego" NGO, "We have taken our first setps."
Contact: Marianna Frunjian, "Ego" Young Psychologists Center NGO; 24 Kievyan St.; Tel.: (3741) 272993;
E-mail: mashaego@netscape.net
INSTRUCTIONAL FILM "OUR CHILD GROWS"
Recently, with the assistance of UNICEF, the Family Planning Association "For Family and Health" produced a film entitled "Our Child Grows". The instructional film is about pregnancy, the child's birth and various issues on care, health and development of children up to age three. Some 1700 people, including pregnant women, kindergarten nannies, parents of children up to age three, staff of boarding schools and maternity hospitals, have already viewed the film.
Contact: Mary Khachikyan, Family Planning Association "For Family and Health", 14/1 Vardanants St.;
Tel.: (3741) 540814, 540815; Fax: (3741) 540816; E-mail: armfpa@arminco.com
"ARAKYAL" NGO SUPPORTING VULNERABLE FAMILIES IN KAPAN
The Charitable NGO "Arakyal" supports vulnerable families in Kapan by offering classes in various trades. Currently, 50 women are enrolled in sewing classes in the Kapan stockinet factory. The classes are the third in the series. Of the 80 women who attended the first two classes, 60 now have employment. The project is implemented with the support of the German "Integrated Food Security Program in Southern Armenia". Earlier this year, as part of the same program, classes of in shoe- and slipper-making were conducted for 20 men and 40 women. As a result, their in-house production is exchanged with other goods. Through another project, the NGO "Arakyal" distributes secondhand clothing and shoes to orphans, disabled and families with many children in Kapan. Support for this program is provided by the American Christian Church.
Contact: Agapi Vardanyan, Charitable NGO "Arakyal", Kapan, 14/23 Shinararneri St.; Tel.: (085) 67039
REDUCING TOLERANCE TOWARDS FAMILY VIOLENCE
The Yeghegnadzor-based NGO "Young Family Support Center", with the assistance of the organization "World Learning", has started implementation of a project entitled "Key to the united family". The goal of the project is to raise awareness about the phenomenon of family violence within society and eliminate its tolerance. The project includes training and roundtable discussions geared towards creating a more stable atmosphere within family, publication of the newsletter "My Family" and airing of radio and TV programs. The Young Family Support Center will cooperate with the Yerevan-based organizations Women's Rights Center, "Antena" NGO and Union of International Advocates during project implementation.
Contact: Gayane Harutiunyan, "Young Family Support Center", Yeghegnadzor; 14 Arsenyan St.; Tel.: (081) 24525, 25130
POVERTY THE FOCUS OF DISCUSSION AT IDHR
On August 31, 2001, a discussion on poverty issues took place at the Institute of Democracy and Human Rights (IDHR) NGO. This regular discussion (the third in the series) is Part of the project "Ways of Poverty Eradication in Armenia" implemented by the NGO and supported by the OXFAM Armenia office. During the meeting, Mihran Galstyan, an ethno-sociologist, presented the "Issues of Poverty and Employment." Representatives of a number of NGOs, ministries and research institutes initiated a debate that touched the issues of migration, unemployment, social welfare and training for the unemployed. The results of the meeting were summed up and presented to the Coordinating Council formed by the IDHR.
Contact: Meline Tovmasyan, IDHR Executive Director; 4/1 Aygedzor St.; Tel.: (3741) 264712;
E-mail: idhr@acc.am
CHILDREN'S DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Since September 1, 2001, in the "Shogher" Children's Development Center of Nor Spitak, the NGO "Young Women's Missionary Association" implements a project for children of refugees and socially vulnerable families. The children receive elementary education. They can participate in a variety of organized extracurricular activities, including the screening of cartoons, group reading sessions, games and sports. The children also learn embroidery, carpet-weaving and ceramics. Funding support for the Center's activities is provided by the Tufenkyan Foundation and the British Embassy in Armenia.
Contact: Shoghik Amirkhanyan, "Young Women's Missionary Association" NGO; 17 Demirchyan St., #29;
Tel.: (3741) 271362; E-mail: aywma@freenet.am
BRINGING CHILDREN TOGETHER
From August 3 to 18, 2001, an international camp was organized in the Kastropol resort of the Crimea. The camp participants all hailed from conflict zones: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Ossetia and Abkhazia. The camp was a part of the program "Nurturing NGO Development and Peaceful Co-existence in the Caucasus", implemented by the Canadian Feed the Children (CFTC) organization. The program aims at formation of tolerance among the conflicting parties and is carried out in the Caucasus. At the camp, five members of the Gyumri-based "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center represented Armenia. Meghvik is a CFTC program partner. Civic education, thematic bulletins and newsletters, and role-playing were some of the tools used to achieve program objectives. "The camp enabled the boys and girls of the countries represented to realize that getting to know each others' cultural and social-psychological values is a step towards mutual understanding", says Vehanush Hovhannisyan, Chairwoman of "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center.
Contact: Vehanush Hovhannisyan, "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center; Gyumri, 52 Nizami St.;
Tel.: (041) 42151; 44695; E-mail: meghvik@shirak.am
Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 10 - October 4, 2001
NEW NGOC WEBSITE LAUNCHED The NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) has launched a new website (http://www.ngoc.am) under the NGO Development Program in Support of USAID's Social Transition Reform and Earthquake Zone Programs. This user-friendly site presents helpful information about the AAA NGOC through the following links: Center Overview; Services (including instructions for NGOs to register with the NGOC); Current Programs; NGO Homepages; NGOC Publications; Archives; Armenian NGOs (Searchable database on NGOs registered with the Center); Recent News (Announcements); Guest Book; Mail Service for NGOs; Related Links. Contact: Anahit Frangyan; RC & Internet Services Manager; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013; CAPACITY BUILDING PROJECT OF THE NGO "NEUROHEREDITARY DISEASES" The NGO "Neurohereditary Diseases" Charitable Association recently began a new capacity building project. The program focuses on strengthening the organization's service provision and physical resource capacities through the development of a database of individuals suffering from neural and neuro-vascular hereditary diseases (NNVHD) and the procurement of greatly needed equipment. The project will contribute to improving the diagnosis of NNVHD in Armenia, monitoring and controlling at-risk families, reducing the rate of mortality associated with hereditary diseases and improving the overall state of health of the sick. The project is made possible by a grant from the USAID through the NGO Training and Resource Center, as part of the latter's "NGO Management" Training Program. Contact: Albert Matevossyan, NGO "Neurohereditary Diseases" Charitable Association; 10 Amiryan St., #15; Tel.: (3741) 561781; E-mail: armat@netsys.am IN SUPPORT OF THE VULNERABLE Since December 1999, the Charitable NGO "Karavan 88", with the assistance of the Armenian-American philanthropist Hrant Jandan, provides monthly financial support in the amount of 15 000 drams each to 16 families of refugees, wives and mothers of killed soldiers, disabled and orphans. Although the monthly allowance was reduced to 10,000 drams in January 2001, the organization expects to add five beneficiaries to the list of recipients in 2002. Contact: Zoya Julhakyan; "Karavan 88" Charitable NGO; 3 Kievyan St., #30; Tel.: (3741) 270688; "MISSION ARMENIA"'S NEW PROJECT On September 7, 2001, the NGO "Mission Armenia" organized a roundtable discussion for representatives of governmental and non-governmental structures to discuss the development of a culture of philanthropy in Armenia. The roundtable was organized within the framework of a project funded by the Eurasia Foundation, "Promotion of Philanthropic Mentality in the Armenian Society", which aims to develop local philanthropy by raising public awareness on philanthropic issues, presenting the international experience of philanthropic organizations and organizing workshops for representatives of interested parties and the media. Roundtable participants prioritized the significance of philanthropic mentality promotion in solving actual problems within the Armenian society. Also, they discussed possible approaches to developing a civic mentality of philanthropy and pinpointed practical actions for its promotion. Contact:Hripsime Kirakossian; Mission Armenia; 42 Nzdeh St.; Tel.: (3741) 444792; 444761; WORKSHOP SERIES UNDERWAY AT NGO CENTER The NGO Training and Resource Center is conducting a series of management workshops for some 20 representatives of NGOs providing social and/or primary healthcare services and information. The topics covered during the workshop series include: Social work, social policy; Strategic planning, mission statement; Public Relations; Project management, proposal writing; Financial resources management; Problem solving, decision making; Collaboration, conflict prevention and resolution; Advocacy. The weekly workshop series began September 5, 2001 and will run through October 24, 2001. Contact: Knarik Arabyan, Training and Consultancy Department Coordinator; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am LIBRARIES AS CIVIC COMMUNICATION CENTERS The AAA NGO Training and Resource Center has been awarded a Eurasia Foundation grant to implement a project in support of the creation of five regional resource centers within libraries in Gyumri, Vanadzor, Noyemberyan, Armavir and Kapan. The NGOC will conduct Training courses for their Advisory Boards and technical staff and provide on-site training and consulting. As part of the grant, the NGOC will also monitor the resource centers' initial activities. Project results will be presented during a joint meeting of the representatives all five resource centers. Contact: Margarit Piliposyan, AAA NGO Center Director, 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013; NGO CENTER'S TRAVEL GRANTS PROGRAM UNDERWAY The AAA NGO Training & Resource Center's 2001 Travel Grants Program is for indigenous NGOs providing social and primary health care information and services to participate in relevant conferences, workshops and other events to take place in other countries. The application deadline is November 5 for events to take place in December 2001. For more information on submission of applications, guidelines and timetable, please contact the AAA NGOC Grants Management Unit: 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; STRENGTHENING NGOs IN THE LORI REGION On September 27, 2001, the Social League and PADCO organized a meeting between representatives of some 20 Lori-based NGOs and CounterPart, PADCO, Social League, Ministry of Social Welfare and AAA NGO Center to inform the NGOs about current projects and the services they offer. Of particular interest to the NGOs were the regulations for enrollment in the Social League, financial cooperation between the Mayor's Office and the NGOs, and participation in the NGOC grants and training programs. Meeting participants emphasized the need to actively promote cooperation and information sharing between Lori region NGOs and the above- mentioned structures in order to enhance the capacity of the NGOs to serve their beneficiaries. Contact: Aramazd Ghalamkaryan, NGOC PR Specialist; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 11 - October 26, 2001
WOMEN'S PROTECTION IN THE FAMILY The Maternity Fund of Armenia (MFA) has conducted a survey among 1200 women in 11 Yerevan communities. The survey aimed at revealing the phenomenon of family violence and the public's readiness to fight that phenomenon. In the hopes of contributing to a reduction in incidences of family violence in Armenia, the MFA, with the assistance of "World Learning", is implementing the project "Peace to Your Home". The project aims at raising the level of women's security within the family. Women who have experienced violence will receive training and learn about methods of preventing family violence. The project envisions individual training to be conducted by a psychologist who will apply rehabilitation techniques, as well as develop a psychological and stress-resistant culture within family relations. The "Meknutiun" Center of Psychological Research, the Women's Rights Center and the "Akunk" Center of Ethno-Sociological Research are MFA's implementing partners for this project. Contact: Susanna Aslanyan, Maternity Fund of Armenia, 23 David Anhaght St.; Tel.: (3741) 246953, 231257; E-mail: maternity@ngoc.am
On October 3 the NGO "Cooperation for Peace and Harmonious Development of Society" organized an event devoted to the organization's first anniversary and to the International Day of the Elderly. The event was held at Yerevan School # 178. In support of its mission, the NGO provides educational and medical services to pupils of the Erebuni community schools and particularly to those of the above mentioned school. Beneficiaries include orphans, children of the socially vulnerable and families with many children, as well as those who are behind the school program. During the summer holidays the latter were prepared for school life by the NGO's psychologist, doctor and pedagogue. Now these pupils distinguish themselves with their good grades. The NGO has founded a system of an extended school day whereby the participating 25 children receive free meals twice a day. They also take part in extra-curricular activities such as the needlework groups, tapestry-making, painting, and hairdressing. During the October 3 event, staff of the school, the NGO and its partner "Astghik" Disabled Children's Parents Union welcomed the Erebuni community elderly. Then with the pupils' assistance the elderly planted trees in the school yard. The event concluded with a performance by the children's dance group and choir. Contact: Karine Markossian, NGO "Cooperation for Peace and Harmonious Development of Society"; Erebuni community, 25 Khaghagh Don St., School # 178; Tel.: 474710
On October 5 and 7, in the town of Vanadzor, the "Vanadzor and Sister Cities" Benevolent Union organized an event entitled "The spirit is the drive for the soul, body and mind". During the event, some 60 community members aged 12 to 70 cleaned the Freedom Fighters' Park and a significant part of the Vanadzor River, passing through a rather active part of the town. The event was part of another program "Good will, good deeds, good results" marking the International Year of Volunteers. The goal of the event was to emphasize volunteerism as a useful way of bringing communities together and solving local problems. After summing up the results of the October 5, 6 and 7 activities, the IFES Vanadzor Office, which assisted the NGO in organizing the events, rewarded it with an encouraging prize - a photo camera. "By encouraging the community's volunteer movement, NGOs can make a significant positive contribution to the reconstruction of the earthquake zone", stated Sofia Kalantaryan, Chairwoman of the "Vanadzor and Sister Cities" Benevolent Union. Contact: Sofia Kalantaryan, Benevolent Union "Vanadzor and Sister Cities"; Vanadzor, 1/90 Tumanyan St.; Tel.: (374 51) 44807; Fax: (374 51) 43460; E-mail: skalantaryan@yahoo.com
The Republican Committee "Zinvori Mair", in partnership with the Armenian Charity Union "Fund for Refugees", has started implementation of the project "Legal awareness to refugees", aimed at raising the awareness of refugees about the RoA Law on "State, Legal, Social and Economic Guarantees for the people displaced from Azerbaijan from 1988 through 1992 and acquiring RoA citizenship." Two to three day seminars will be organized for some 1000 activists from communities in Yerevan and four regions that have large refugee populations. During the seminars, various issues related to the execution of the Law will be presented, and brochures will be distributed to the participants. The project also includes the airing of radio programs in Russian highlighting the different provisions of the Law. Contact: Greta Mirzoyan, Republican Committee "Zinvori Mair", 5 Khanjyan St., suite 107; Tel.: (3741) 523202; E-mail: armgreta@arminco.com
On October 1, an exhibition of arts and handicrafts created by the beneficiaries of two NGOs, the "Salvation" Charitable Union of Assistance to Disabled Children and the "Hogatsutyun" (Care) Social Charitable, opened at the UN House in Yerevan. On display were paintings, tapestries, needlework, crochet and wood carvings created by the 12 to 25 year old disabled children supported by "Salvation" Union. Also on show were soft toys designed by the refugee and gifted children supported by "Hogatsutiun" NGO. These toys were made within the framework of a training program on making soft toys being implemented by the "Hogatsutiun" NGO and with the assistance of Tufenkyan Foundation in the Shengavit community. Following the opening ceremony, the beneficiaries of the "Hogatsutiun" NGO offered their handiworks to the disabled children of the "Salvation" Union. The exhibition ended October 10, 2001. Contact: Hrachya Soghomonyan, "Hogatsutyun" Social Charitable NGO, 7/3 Tarontsi St., apt. 9; Tel.: (3741) 480609, 488092; E-mail: 2001@yahoo.com
On October 5, 2001 Tekeyan Center hosted a ceremony devoted to the International Day of the Elderly. The event was organized jointly by the NGO Mission Armenia, UNHCR and UMCOR. During the ceremony, representatives from the RoA Ministries of Social Welfare and Health, National Assembly, Mission Armenia, UNHCR, USAID and UMCOR greeted guests and highlighted Mission Armenia's philanthropic activities, which include providing social, moral, psychological, medical and legal assistance to the lonely elderly. Eminent singers, as well as the "Elderly Choir of the Shengavit Community" (Mission Armenia beneficiaries sing with the Choir) performed. Contact: Hripsime Kirakossian, "Mission Armenia", 42 Nzdeh St.; Tel.: (3741) 444792, 444761; E-mail: ripsik@arminco.com
On September 28 and October 3, 2001, the AAA NGO Center hosted training of trainers sessions on the topic "Public Financing of NGOs". The day-long sessions were conducted by Caroline Newman of the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL). Presented were the Eastern European experience and mechanisms of public financing in the social and healthcare fields, particularly in the areas of procurement and subsidies mechanisms and the differentiation between them. Basic, as well as legal, mechanisms of NGO-Government partnerships were presented. The discussions were directed at the creation and application of a local training model. During the training sessions, comprehensive materials were distributed to trainees. The expected outcome is readiness on the part of the participants to provide training to other NGO and government representatives. Training participants included representatives of the RoA Ministries of Social Welfare and Health, a number of NGOs, PADCO, World Learning and AAA NGO Center. Contact: Anna Kurdova, NGOC Legal Specialist, 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; E-mail: anna@ngoc.am
NOTE: We apologize to IDHR and our readers for an error in the 9th issue of the "NGO News in Brief:" please read "Steering Committee of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Plan (PRSP)" instead of "Coordinating Council formed by IDHR." The Committee was formed by the Government of RoA. Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 12 - November 27, 2001
"NGO CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM-4" The AAA NGO Center and UNHCR have been implementing partners since 1997. The latest joint program, implemented by the NGOC and UNHCR since May 2001, specifically targets 15 region-based NGOs serving the marzes of Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor and Ararat, which have heavy refugee populations. The program focuses on improving the NGOs' effectiveness by further strengthening their capacities. The program includes the following components:
INTEGRATION The goal of this project, implemented by the Ararat regional organization of the Armenian Red Cross Society, is to support the integration of refugees and the solution of the primary healthcare and social problems of both refugees and natives in Masis Region. In order to promote primary healthcare issues among some 500 refugees and local schoolchildren of Masis and the neighboring 10 villages, factsheets and brochures on infectious diseases and their prevention are being distributed. In refugee populated villages, pupils in grades 8 to 10 learn the ABCs of first aid. Psychotherapeutic sessions and individual conversations are conducted among the elderly and lonely refugees and locals. The beneficiaries also receive social and medical assistance. Excursions have been organized to the historic and cultural sights of Geghard and Khor Virap. Also, to assist the integration of refugee children, Armenian Language classes are held three times a week. Contact: Argishti Galstyan, Ararat regional organization of the Armenian Red Cross Society; Ararat region; Masis; 10 Shiraz St.; Tel.: (374 36) 41941 CULTURE OF DIALOGUE, DIALOGUE OF CULTURES To assist the integration of refugee residents of Yeghegnadzor in the Vayots Dzor region, the local branch of the Association of Women with University Education prioritizes dialogue between the authorities and refugees and between the locals and refugees. Encounters have been organized between representatives of refugees and authorities, during which a number of issues have been discussed, including: equal opportunities for locals and refugees in the privatization of land; development of policy on discounts for bills; involvement of refugees in the activities of local committees; problems connected with the education of refugees' children; providing refugees with air time on local radio and television stations. A roundtable discussion entitled "Our customs and traditions", was held with participation of refugees and locals. Factsheets, containing the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and international and local laws and decrees on refugees, have been designed and disseminated among refugees. The NGO plans to issue a newsletter "Dialogue" in Armenian and Russian and to produce a report for television. Both of these vehicles will be used to present the problems of the local refugees and activities conducted within the framework of the project. Contact: Larisa Hovsepyan, Vayots Dzor branch of the Association of Women with University Education; Yeghegnadzor; 2/9 Momik St.; Tel.: (374 81) 22248
Contact: Anahit Gevorgyan, Martuni Women's Community Council; Martuni; 8 Proshian St., Tel.: (374 62) 42201 BEE-KEEPING SUPPORT PROJECT The Chambarak branch of the Republican Committee "Zinvori Mair" is training 34 refugee and IDP (internally-deisplaced persons) families in the Shorza and Dprabak subregions to become more self-reliant, thereby becoming better integrated in their communities. During training, the beneficiaries are taught the art of beekeeping. Beekeeping educational-consultancy centers have been established in the above mentioned subregions. 20 swarms of bees have been already bought and installed and preventive activities conducted. The swarms will be transferred to winter huts and the actual activities will be started by the project beneficiaries next year. Contact: Gayane Khachatryan, Chambarak branch of the Republican Committee "Zinvori Mair"; Chambarak; 15/22 Tigran Mets St.; Tel.: (374 65) 23789
This project, implemented by the Vayots Dzor-based NGO Anahit Humanitarian Organization, targets the alleviation of social problems, employment creation, sustainability, integration and increase of awareness of refugees residing in Goghtanik, Arates, Hermon, Yeghegis and Vartahovit villages of the Yeghegnadzor region. A water-supply system has been built in the village of Goghtanik, and as a result some 50 families have received irrigation water. The NGO has provided some 30 refugees and natives with short-term employment by involving them in the construction activities. Seminars on agricultural and agribusiness issues are also periodically organized in the above mentioned villages. The NGO plans to hold seminars and individual consultancies on legal issues, as well. Contact: Karen Babayan, Vayots Dzor "Anahit" Humanitarian NGO; Yeghegnadzor; 5 Shahumyan St.; Tel.: (374 81) 22692
The NGO "Young Family Support Center" of Vayots Dzor organizes seminars among refugee and local women of Noravan district on the subject of parasitical diseases and on guidelines for personal hygiene. And high school children and teachers of three schools learn crucial preventive measures in order to reduce the risk of parasitical diseases among pupils. As part of the project, seven premedical specialists will be trained. As a result of training organized twice a week, seven women from the district will acquire the basics of the primary medical assistance. For the prevention of parasitical diseases, some 150 children aged 1 to 15 have been examined. Should any diseases be discovered, the children will receive the necessary treatment. Contact: Gayane Harutiunyan, "Young Family Support Center" NGO of Vayots Dzor; Yeghegnadzor, Noravan district; 11 Arsenyan St.; Tel.: (374 81) 24525 Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 13 - December 20, 2001
NGO CENTER HOSTS A GOVERNMENT-NGO DIALOGUE On November 2, 2001, the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) hosted an open dialogue between the NGOC's latest group of NGO Management trainees and representatives of the RoA Ministries of Health and Social Welfare. Hovhanness Margaryants, Advisor to the Minister of Health, outlined the policy of optimization of the healthcare system and presented the affiliated legal, organizational, economic and financial issues. Nuneh Pashayan of the Ministry's Primary Healthcare Department spoke about the Ministry's current priorities related to primary healthcare policy -- organization of a system of family physicians, improvement of the legal framework, implementation of its policy of preventive care and treatment of social diseases. Dialogue participants agreed that as new health-related technologies are introduced, NGOs can contribute greatly to the process -- in the improvement of the legal framework, in carrying out awareness-raising activities, and in providing medical assistance to populations in remote areas. It was noted that since formal mechanisms for cooperation between the NGO sector and the Ministry do not yet exist, the current cooperation is a clear indication of the will to cooperate. However, because the cooperation if not yet legally regulated, the Ministry representatives have observed instances of professional negligence as well as spontaneous activities from the part of NGOs. Hasmik Khachatryan, Head of the Division of Social Dialogue of the Department of Foreign Relations of the Ministry of Social Welfare, presented the Ministry's activities, its long term goals and the Government's most recent experience of working with NGOs - the creation of the "Social League". Contact: NGOC Training and Consultancy Department; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am
On October 24, 2001, the "Trust" Social Work and Sociological Research Center celebrated the first anniversary of its "Teenage Crisis Counseling" project, supported by the British Embassy. The project includes a Teen Help Line "Trust" that provides psychological assistance to teenagers. The service has registered 1,369 calls during its first year of existence. As described by Project Coordinator Hasmik Gevorgyan, student volunteers, who have attended various training courses in the Center and have acquired rich experience through practical work, implement the project. During the celebration ceremony, the Center presented the British Ambassador with a formal letter of thanks. The project volunteers received certificates. Representatives of several international organizations were also present at the event. Contact: Hasmik Gevorgyan, "Trust" Social Work and Sociological Research Center; 23 Tumanyan St., suit 41; Tel.: (3741) 538015; E-mail: vstarm@arminco.com
Since October of 2001, the Gyumri-based NGO "Meghvik" Children's Educational Center has published a monthly newsletter "Meghvik". The Center is now home to a group of young journalists aged 15-18 who are responsible for all editorial decisions - they determine both the contents and the design of the bulletin which features a number of Sections: "Meghvik" Welcome; Our schools; News about us; Our gifted children; Interesting materials; Quiz; Crossword. The periodical is distributed among schoolchildren in the Shirak region. On the occasion of the International Year of Volunteers (2001) the "Meghvik" Center, also published a brochure on volunteerism and voluntary activities in Armenia, with Astghik Bakhalbashyan, IFES Shirak Office Trainer as a co-author. A second brochure is planned to be published in December. Both publications are intended for broad public distribution. Contact: Vehanush Hovhannisyan, Meghvik" Children's Educational Center; Gyumri, 52 Nizami St.;
PADCO's Armenian Social Transition Program (ASTP) is testing a system of service provision by the NGOs in the Lori region. The concept of this activity is the following: government social services offices will distribute to their customers brochures listing all the local NGOs, the services they provide and their contact information. The goal is to create a seamless system through which private organizations can supplement the services available to people through government offices. ASTP hopes that similar brochures will be prepared for each region and for Armenia as a whole. Contact: PADCO's Armenian Social Transition Program; 14 Sundukyan St.; Tel.: (3741) 273175, 273176;
October 22-31, 2001 PADCO's Armenian Social Transition Program organized a hands-on course entitled "Public Education" for 13 representatives of the RoA Ministries of Health and Social Welfare, local authorities, the NGOC and "Paradise" Advertising Agency. The course was conducted by S. B. Rosenberg, an expert invited from Bulgaria; L. Harutiunyan of the Chair of Sociology of the Yerevan State University; M. Harutiunyan of the Yerevan Press Club; H. Mansuryan and L. Kalantar of Internews, and A. Tukhikyan of the ASTP. The training program covered the following aspects of public education and public relations: Communication model; Communication strategy; Public opinion; Research; Analysis; Internal communication; Working with the Mass Media; Practical skills. As stated by the NGOC's Aramazd Ghalamkaryan, who took part in the training, "The course was a unique opportunity for the participants to acquire practical skills needed to implement effective reforms in our society".
The Ministry of Justice is the author of the RoA Law on Non-Governental Organizations, passed by the National Assembly on December 4, 2001. However, more than 50 local NGOs were actively involved in the development process of the draft law. As a result of discussions organized by the World Learning, the National Assembly and the NGO Center, the NGOs presented a number of proposals to the National Assembly, most of which were approved. Regrettably, the issue of the NGOs' direct involvement in entrepreneurial activities without economic status became a stumbling block for the NGOs. As stated by the NGO Center's Legal Specialist, "The active participation of the NGOs in the development of the draft law is certainly a positive phenomenon in democracy building processes. We should strive for this phenomenon to become a natural occurrence in our society". Contact: Anna Kurdova, NGO Center Legal Specialist; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013;
November 8-26 a delegation from Armenia made up of representatives of the local and national Governments, NGOs and the media participated in the Social Partnership Study Tour in Ukraine. The Study Tour was organized by Counterpart International within the scope of USAID/PADCO Armenia Social Transition Program. The purpose of the study tour was to familiarize the Armenian delegates with the Ukrainian experience in private and public sector partnerships in the delivery of social services. The idea was that the participants will gain a practical understanding of the key issues and questions which need to be addressed when considering various partnership arrangements between the public and private sectors for the provision and delivery of healthcare and social services. The study tour included visits to Odessa, Lviv, Ujzgorod and Kiev. In all four locations, the participants of the study tour met with representatives of local and national legislative and executive branches of Ukrainian public sector. Meetings were also organized with NGOs and representatives of a number of international organizations working on the same issue. The last three days of the study tour were completely devoted to training on Social Partnership and Strategic Planning. Prior to their departure for Ukraine, the Armenian study tour participants attended a one-day pre-study tour orientation workshop. The workshop gave an overview of private and public sector partnerships, the key issues which should be addressed and the experience of a number of European countries. Contact: Margarit Piliposyan, NGO Center Director, 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012; 544013; Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Contact Information:
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VOLUME 2, No 14 - December 27, 2001
Contact: Yenok Shatvoryan; "Hope and Help" NGO; 32 Fuchik St.; Tel.: (3741) 226965; E-mails: hopehelp@freenet.am; hopehelp@ngoc.am
In keeping with its mission of supporting the development of democracy and the local self-governing system, on November 23 the NGO "Yerevani Avaganiner" (Yerevan Councils) was oficially renamed "Hayastani Avaganiner". The new name was the result of meetings in various communities throughout Armenia and of productive discussions with local self-governing bodies. Thus, members of all the elderly communities of Armenia can now be involved in the NGO's activities. The NGO has directly taken part in development of the RoA draft law on "Local Self-Governance" which was adopted by the National Assembly after the first reading. Through mediation of the NGO board, representatives of all of the Yerevan based elderly communities have been involved in the district committees providing financial assistance to socially vulnerable groups. As a result, the committees' activities will become more effective, as the elderly community members are directly elected by the population, are part of the population and are intimately familiar with the problems. By enhancing its geographic scope of activities, the NGO plans to conduct similar activities in other communities of Armenia. Contact: Arayik Hovhannisyan, "Hayastani Avaganiner" NGO; 4 Tigran Mets St., suit 426; Tel.: (3741) 587741; E-mail: avagani@dolphin.am
The "Mirror" project, implemented by the Stepanavan based NGO "Liarzek kyank" (Perfect Life) with the assistance of "World Learning" is currently underway. The project envisions the creation of an "InfoCenter". A database on the disabled living in Stepanavan and neighboring communities has been developed: it will make the services provided to beneficiaries more effective. In the training center, which is par of the NGO's office, Internet training courses are held for the disabled, who also have Internet access one hour a day. The beneficiaries can receive free consultations by the sociologist-psychologist, the legal specialist and the family physician. The project also includes airing of a TV program on the disabled on the local "Fortuna" TV Station. To raise the awareness about their rights, seminars will be held for Stepanavan and neighboring Kurtan village beneficiaries. Legal materials on the disabled will be presented during the seminars. Contact: Suren Maghakyan; "Liarzek kyank" NGO; Stepanavan; 5/21 4th district; Tel.: (056) 22058; E-mail: flhu@netsys.am
Since November 2001, the Noyemberian-based NGO "Yerevak" has provided legal information and consultations to the socially vulnerable population of the region. The program is made possible through the support of Chemonics International, with funding from USAID. Services are provided at the "Kamar" (Bridge) Center, whose mission is to improve the level of legal protection of the Tavush region population through the dissemination of legal information and the provision of free consultations to socially vulnerable people. Consultations are available at the Center, on-site (according to a timetable and by request) and by phone, and the information is disseminated through the library. To date, the 500 beneficiaries who have benefited from the Center's services, represent a variety of social groups including refugees, disabled, pensioners, unemployed, single mothers, members of families of soldiers killed in action and families with many children. Contact: Andranik Veranyan, "Yerevak" NGO; 14 Zoravar Andranik St.; Tel.: (374 66) 22605; 22705; E-mail: yerevak@ngoc.am
This was the topic of a meeting convened on December 13 by the Mental Health Foundation, with the assistance of "Tatev 95" and InterMinds. The participants of this encounter - psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, representatives of governmental and non-governmental structures - attempted to identify priorities within the field of mental health. The discussion covered various issues, including: the system of mental health services; employment creation for mental health professionals; psychological services at schools; medical and social consultation; legislative and strategic issues in the context of healthcare reforms. As stated by Arman Vardanyan, Foundation Chairman, "The most significant outcome of this event was that the participants prioritized the improvement of legislative framework of the field and almost 80 percent of the present expressed readiness for cooperation". Contact: Arman Vardanyan, Mental Health Foundation, P. O. Box 29; Tel.: (3741) 544504; E-mail: mhf@mentalhealth.am
In order to improve living conditions for intellectual women from June to November 2001, the NGO "Shogher" Union implemented a project entitled "Study of social and economic problems faced by women with engineering and technical backgrounds" with the goal of improving social conditions for these professionals. Surveys were conducted to determine their expectations and abilities. A database of social conditions and professional data was developed, based on which material assistance was provided to the socially vulnerable and the unemployed within the target group. The program was made possible through the support of UMCOR, RoA Ministry of Social Welfare and individuals. The NGO anticipates that the database will be used in developing future development and humanitarian assistance projects. Contact: Hasmik Aslanyan; "Shogher" Union; 47 Khorentasi St, apt. 108; Tel.: (3741) 554712; E-mail: hasmikas@freenet.am; shogher@ngoc.am "FUTURE FAMILY" NGO ASSISTS BRONCHIAL ASTHMA SUFFERERS The NGO "Future Family", with funding from the World Bank, recently implemented an innovative project in support of poverty eradication. The goal of the project was to assist those socially vulnerable families with members suffering from bronchial asthma. To this end, some 80 physicians based in Vanadzor, Gyumri, Ijevan and Goris received theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary for controlling and assisting people with bronchial asthma. Also, the staff of the NGO examined more than 160 people with bronchial asthma and other respiratory problems. They were treated by the Buteyko method of voluntary elimination of heavy breathing. This is a non-medical method of breathing normalization, and its effectiveness was evident by the end of the project: the level of seriousness of the disease had been reduced; the average expenditure for medicines has been reduced and finally, after acquisition of the method, the people can now control their breathing by themselves. Contact: Hasmik Hakobyan, "Future Family" NGO; 20 Vagharshyan St.; Tel.: (3741) 529764; 265976; E-mail: familyfuture@yahoo.com Armenian NGO News in Brief is a publication of the NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) issued in the Armenian, English and Russian languages for electronic dissemination inside and outside Armenia. Funding for the NGOC, which is a project of the Armenian Assembly of America, is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
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