The project "Legal assistance to vulnerable groups in Kotaik region", implemented by the NGO "Family and New World", has concluded. The project enabled the NGO to provide free legal assistance and information to vulnerable groups throughout the Kotayk region. For the past year, more than 300 families with many children, lonely elderly, disabled and unemployed benefited from the legal consultancy services offered by the organization in Abovyan and six regional villages. A library offering access to brochures on RoA Laws, legislative documents and video casettes aimed at raising the legal awareness of project beneficiaries. The library was created earlier in 2000 with the assistance of Eurasia Foundation and has been replenished during the project implementation. The International Union of Armenian Advocates partnered with the NGO "Family and New World" for the duration of the project. The grant was provided by Chemonics International with funds from USAID.

Contact: Julietta Ter-Martirosova, "Family and New World" NGO; Abovyan, 3 Geghard St., #32; Tel.: (374 22) 23604; E-mail: fnw@netsys.am

MAKING MILITARY SERVICE SAFE

On February 7, 2002, the Tekeyan Center was the site of a presentation of the brochure "Safe Military Service" published by the NGO "Zinvori Mair" (Soldier's Mother) Charitable Committee of Armenia with the assistance of the OSI Assistance Foundation Armenia Office and the Constitutional and Legal Institute. The brochure targets soldiers serving in the RoA National Army to assist formation and regulation of legal military-civilian relations. The publication contains pieces from the RoA Constitution, RoA Law on Military Service, Disciplinary Charter of the RoA Armed Forces, as well as important contact information. The brochure will help military personnel learn about their rights and responsibilities, while shedding light on frequently asked questions. Participants at the launch of the brochure - including representatives of non-governmental and governmental structures-emphasized the importance of the initiative, which is a positive step towards ensuring that human rights are respected in the military.

Contact: Greta Mirzoyan, "Zinvori Mair" (Soldier's Mother) Charitable Committee of Armenia; 5 Khanjian St., suite 107; Tel.: (3741) 529931; 523202; E-mail: armgreta@arminco.com

FIRST PROFESSIONAL SOURCE OF PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION IN ARMENIA

The Youth NGO "Pharmprogress", as part of the "NGO Capacity Building Program" initiated the AAA NGOC, has created the first professional source of pharmaceutical information in Armenia to fill the serious information gap in this field. The source contains pharmaceutical encyclopedias published during the past two years, literature on pharmaceutical economy and relevant software. The information targets pharmacists-students and related economic structures-drugstores, pharmaceutical resources- involved in the field. The NGO "Pharmprogress" plans to add to the information available with the inclusion of international pharmaceutical magazines.

Contact: Hrant Danagulyan; 250 Armen Armenakyan St., Hotel "Nairi", suite 120; Tel.: (3741) 544955; E-mail: danapharm@email.com

NGO FORUM ON REFUGEES

The newly created NGO Forum on Refugees brings together nine NGOs that focus on refugee issues and strives to unify efforts directed at the social and legal protection of refugees. The primary goal of the forum is to assist with the repatriation and social integration of refugees, employment creation and protecting the right of refugees to move about freely in search of asylum. The forum two main priorities are the provision of jobs to refugees and bridging the gap between the local and refugee populations in terms of their differing cultural and domestic traditions - socialization processes. The forum also plans to establish regional and international ties with other organizations working on developing peace and well-being in the South Caucasus.

Contact: Hranush Kharatyan; Head of the Board of Directors of the Refugee NGOs Forum; 62 Pushkin St., #14; Tel.: (3741) 586528; E-mail: azgagir@arminco.com

SOCIAL PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIZED

On January 18, 2002, the Armenian Social Transition Program (ASTP)/Counterpart Foundation organized a workshop on Social Partnerships where Lori Marz NGOs discussed cooperation on problems within the social sector. In addition to the organizations in attendance, workshop participants included staff of the Marzpetaran (Governors Office) and the Kaghakapetaran (Mayors Office). The workshop introduced the concept of Social Partnerships to Lori Marz NGOs with a priority focus on cooperation with the Marzpetaran and Kaghakapetaran. The discussion was facilitated by the ASTP/Counterpart representative and covered such issues as the legal environment, possible obstacles to partnership, how to develop specific social partnership projects, and possible sources of funding. As a result of the workshop, a group of NGOs will conduct a needs assessment with the local authorities to jointly identify the needs of the most vulnerable populations. This will lead to the development of projects managed and operated by NGOs and facilitated and encouraged by the local authorities.

Contact: Armenian Social Transition Program; 14 Sundukian St.; Tel: (3741) 273175; 273176; E-mail: rvaughan@padco.am

ARMENIAN CONSUMERS' RIGHTS PROTECTION UNION OPPOSED TO GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS

The Armenian Consumers' Rights Protection Union (CRPU) has tabled a motion asking the World Food Summit to consider a moratorium on food enhanced by genetic modification when the Summit convenes in Rome this June. The motion was made during an internet conference last month and is supported by NGOs from Bosnia and Slovenia. "Big harvests are more and more often reached not on the fields, but in scientific laboratories," says CRPU president Abgar Eghoian. "And the moratorium issue is gathering global momentum. Of course, the size of food products grows, but these same products also become extremely dangerous for the environment and for people's health. It is impossible to ignore this threat any longer." The motion as tabled demands that further scientific research be conducted to determine the extent of the hazard presented by genetically modified organisms.

Contact: Abgar Yeghoyan, Armenian Union of Consumers' Rights Protection, 10 Hanrapetutian St.; Tel.: (3741) 563779, 562082; E-mail: abgar@freenet.am

AAA NGO CENTER ANNOUNCES TRAVEL GRANTS COMPETITION

The AAA NGO Training and Resource Center (NGOC) announces its 2002 travel grants competition 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 deadlines are as follows: for events taking place in June to December, 2002 -- March 12; for events in July-December, 2002 -- April 12, and for events in August-December, 2002 -- May 12. For more information on submission of applications, guidelines and timetable, contact the AAA NGOC Grants Management Unit.

Our address: 20 Yeznik Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 54-40-12, 54-40-13, and 53-92-04; E-mail: gagik@ngoc.am

ATTENTION NGOs REGISTERED WITH THE NGO CENTER

The NGO Training and Resource Center continues to provide free e-mail accounts and web site design for NGOs registered with the Center. For more information on the precedures, contact NGOC Resource Center.

*** ON THE INITIATIVE OF NGOs, AMENDMENTS ARE MADE TO THE ROA LAW ON SOCIAL PROTECTION FOR THE DISABLED

*** NGO PROMOTES INTEGRATION OF REFUGEES INTO ARMENIAN SOCIETY

*** LAUNCHING OF THE BOOK "QUEENS OF THE ARMENIANS"

*** FIVE YEARS OF INTEGRATION OF DISABLED CHILDREN

*** MEETING BETWEEN ARMENIAN AND TURKISH WOMEN

*** MEDICAL SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED TO VULNERABLE GROUPS OF THE POPULATION

*** "YEREVANIAN HIGHROAD" COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LAUNCHED IN GYUMRI

ON THE INITIATIVE OF NGOs, AMENDMENTS ARE MADE TO THE ROA LAW ON SOCIAL PROTECTION FOR THE DISABLED

On February 21, 2002, a coalition of six local NGOs dealing with disability issues convened a roundtable with the participation of representatives of local and international NGOs and public structures. The meeting was to discuss the amendments and additions to be made to the RoA Law on Social Protection for the Disabled. The initiator was the NGO Coalition within the framework of the "Integration of the Disabled into Society" project, funded by World Learning. The main speaker of the roundtable was National Assembly deputy Viktor Dallakyan, who assists the Coalition in lobbying activities in the National Assembly. He presented the basic approaches, principal issues and criteria, that have been considered in the process of making amendments and additions to the draft law. The participants also heard representatives of Ministries and international organizations emphasize the importance of adopting the new law in the process of integrating disabled persons into society.

Members of the NGO Coalition are: "Havat" NGO of Mothers of Children with Hearing Disabilities; "Paros" (Lighthouse) Development Center for Education and Development of the Disabled; "Iveria" Georgian Charitable Society; "Lusastgh" Charitable Union; "Liarzhek Kyank" (Full Life) NGO; "Nor Spitak" (New Spitak) NGO.

Contact: Tamara Manukyan; "Havat" NGO of Mothers of Children with Hearing Disabilities; 17 Shirvanzade St.; Tel.: (3741) 23-19-53; Suren Ohanyan; "Paros" (Lighthouse) Development Center for Education and Development of the Disabled; 1st Nork District; Tel.: (3741) 63-29-58; E-mail: armras@netsys.am

NGO PROMOTES INTEGRATION OF REFUGEES INTO ARMENIAN SOCIETY

The project "Advanced Knowledge on Refugee Rights and Civil Rights in a Democratic Society" was recently implemented by the League for Assistance to Armenian Refugees, in partnership with the Armenian Constitutional Rights Protective Center. The goal of the project was to raise the level of legal awareness of refugees living in the Gugark, Ararat and Vardenis regions, to promote dialogue with authorities on basic legal issues and to create community centers. A brochure "Find Yourself in Armenia", covering basic national and international legal documents, has been published and disseminated among the beneficiaries. During the seminars and encounters with the authorities, the beneficiaries' level of legal awareness on state policy and legislation on refugee issues was raised. Also, their activity level has been raised. As a result, legal community centers are functioning in the above mentioned regions, on the basis of which social and rights protection NGOs will be created. The project was implemented with funding support received from the Danish Refugee Council.

Contact: Nina Baghdasaryan, League for Assistance to Armenian Refugees, 14 Baghramyan 1st Sidestreet, apt. 74; Tel.: (3741) 58-10-77; Gevorg Manukyan, Armenian Constitutional Rights Protective Center; 1st lane Shirakatsi St., 2nd building; Tel.: (374-51) 22967; E-mail: acrpc@xar.am

LAUNCHING OF THE BOOK "QUEENS OF THE ARMENIANS"

On March 1, 2002, the presentation of the book "Queens of the Armenians" was held in the Aram Khachatryan Museum-House. The English publication of the book was initiated by the Armenian International Women's Association (AIWA) within the framework of the project "Women for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building in the Southern Caucasus" implemented by the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM). The book was written by historian Hayk Khachatryan and covers biographical sketches of 150 Armenian Queens, presenting them as active helpmates and wise advisors to their royal husbands. The launching of the book, on the eve of International Women's Day, was AIWA's effort to increase the visibility of Armenian women and promote their role in society. The book serves as a source of information and will foster research and publication about Armenian women.

Contact: Hranush Hakobyan, Armenian International Women's Association; 1a Sayat Nova St.; Tel.: (3741) 52-07-97; E-mail: aiwaarm@arminco.com

FIVE YEARS OF INTEGRATION OF DISABLED CHILDREN

On February 15, 2002, the "Bridge of Hope" NGO celebrated its fifth anniversary. On this occasion, an event was organized and representatives of local and international NGOs were invited. In support of its mission, directed at integrating disabled children into society, "Bridge of Hope" has implemented and continues to implement a number of projects through social and psychological rehabilitation, advocacy and raising public awareness on disability issues. Some of these projects include:

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  A children's development center is functioning in Yerevan, where disabled children and those from vulnerable families learn life skills with the aim of their socialization and mental and physical development. They are taught English, music, arts and journalism;

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  A mobile theatre--unique in its type--is operating. Children of various social groups-disabled, non-disabled, refugees and those of disabled parents-form the troupe;

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  "Sunflower" magazine is being published by disabled and non-disabled children. It highlights issues of concern to children, as well as disability issues. The magazine is available at the NGO's office;

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  A model of inclusive education has been introduced into Yerevan secondary school #27, to involve children with special needs in the secondary education process.

In the course of the past five years, the number of the "Bridge of Hope" beneficiaries has reached 1 000, of which 600 are disabled children. The NGO has branches in Dilijan, Yeghegnadzor and Gavar.

Contact: Susanna Tadevossyan, "Bridge of Hope" NGO; 19a Koryun St., 2nd floor; Tel.: (3741) 58-91-86; 56-01-43; E-mail: bridge@arminco.com

MEETING BETWEEN ARMENIAN AND TURKISH WOMEN

On March 9, 2002, "Armenian Association of Women with University Education"(AAWUE) NGO organized a meeting between Armenian and Turkish women. The meeting was devoted to International Women's Day (March 8) and was aimed at developing collaboration and mutual understanding between women of Turkey and Armenia. Among the participants were representatives of National Assembly, National Academy of Sciences, NGOs, business sector, as well as journalists. They discussed issues related to the role of women in society, their involvement in politics and collaboration between women of both countries. The women emphasized that the development of a climate of mutual trust will contribute to the resolution of existing problems and expressed their readiness to contribute to the establishment of a regional dialogue.

Contact: Jemma Hasratyan, "Armenian Association of Women with University Education"(AAWUE) NGO, 4 Tigran Metsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 522542; E-mail: aawue@arminco.com

MEDICAL SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED TO VULNERABLE GROUPS OF THE POPULATION

The "Armenian Charitable Foundation on Population Development" NGO has established the Yerevan-based private health institution "St. Mariam's Clinic" to provide primary health care and services to vulnerable groups of the population. Anyone, irrespective of age, gender or place of residence, can come to the clinic. The visitors may receive counseling, initial diagnosis and primary medical assistance on a variety of health issues, particularly on childbearing and fertility. The medical services and some of the medicines are provided to vulnerable groups free of charge. Ultrasound scanning and laboratory research are conducted in the clinic and, if necessary, references are provided to the patient to receive professional assistance from state regulated health programs. The project is implemented with funding support received from the charitable organizations "Sisters of Charity Ministry Foundation" (USA), "Caritas Armenia", as well as from a number of committed individuals.

The address of "St. Mariam Clinic" is: 29/2 Sayat Nova St.; Tel.: (3741) 56-70-82; E-mail: armfpa@arminco.com

"YEREVANIAN HIGHROAD" COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LAUNCHED IN GYUMRI

In September-October, 2001, the Armenian Assembly of America's NGO Center conducted measurements of the community social capital of the "Yerevanian Highroad" district of Gyumri. Apart from the study of materialized infrastructures (public utilities, medical and consumer services) in the community, the survey, evaluating civic infrastructures, was conducted among 580 families of the community. Results of this phase of the community activities were presented on March 14, 2002 during the event organized in the "Yerevanian Highroad" district. The next components of the program were presented to the community members, local self-governing bodies, international organizations and Gyumri-based NGOs. Those components are as follows: 1) discussions with NGOs and community groups; 2) justification of community needs; 3) training for community groups and Gyumri-based NGOs; 4) grants program.

Contact: Anahit Mkrtchyan, AAA NGO Training and Resource Center; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 544012, 544013; E-mail: anahit@ngoc.

*** NGO PRESENTS VIDEO CLIPS DEVOTED TO THE "CONVENTION ON CHILDREN'S RIGHTS"

*** ONE MORE STEP IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH IN ARMENIA

*** NGOs, DEALING WITH REFUGEE/IDP ISSUES, MEET IN TSAKHKADZOR

*** SIX NGOs WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE "NGO CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM"

*** ARMENIAN CULTURE IS PRESENTED ABROAD

*** CONSUMERS' RIGHTS PROTECTION IN THE SOUTHERN CAUCASUS

*** RURAL WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN ARMENIA

NGO PRESENTS VIDEO CLIPS DEVOTED TO THE "CONVENTION ON CHILDREN'S RIGHTS"

On March 15, 2002, in Yerevan's Cinema House, "Manana" Children's and Youth Cultural Union presented a selection of video clips, devoted to the "Convention on Chidlren's Rights". During the event, 24 advertising video clips, covering and highlighting principles and provisions of the Convention, were screened. The clips were produced on the initiative of the children from this NGO. They were part of the filming as well. The video clips are situational shots followed by corresponding articles of the Convention. The production was made possible through funding support received from the US Embassy in Yerevan and the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Contact: Ruzan Baghdasaryan, "Manana" Children's and Youth Cultural Union, 21 Kochar St./2 Baghramyan St., apt. 16; Tel.: (374-1) 56-81-62; E-mail: mananayouth@onebox.com

ONE MORE STEP IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH IN ARMENIA

"Tatev-95" Psychological Support and Counseling Center has completed the implementation of its project "NGOs in Mental Health - Development and Network Project in Armenia", funded by the European Union. The goal of the project was to develop Armenian NGOs, working in the mental health field by their capacity building and involvement in a national network. During the project implementation, "Tatev-95" developed significantly as a counseling and training service providing center. Along with providing counseling to 1 200 beneficiaries, various professionals, students and NGOs were trained in the following topics: Stress Management; Interpersonal and Counseling Skills Development; Parenting. On the initiation of the Center, a family network of 16 local structures dealing with mental health issues was created. The areas of collaboration are as follows: information and experience exchange, mutual support, client referrals, as well as the establishment of new mental health services and development of existing services in other structures (particularly hospitals and schools) through training and supervision.

Contact: Anahit Tevosyan, "Tatev-95" Psychological Support and Counseling Center, 2 Baghramyan St., apt. 42; Tel.: (374-1) 56-23-00; E-mail: tatev95@arminco.com

NGOs DEALING WITH REFUGEE/IDP ISSUES MEET IN TSAKHKADZOR

From February 27 through March 1, 2002, Caucasus Refugee/IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) Seminar was held in Tsakhkadzor within the framework of the Caucasus NGO Networking Program, implemented by the Danish Refugee Council with the assistance of FRESTA Secretariat of the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Community Humanitarian Office. Participating in the seminar were representatives of NGOs from Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Abkhazia, Nagorno Karabagh, Southern Osetia and North Caucasus. The seminar provided an opportunity to come up with the results of the first phase of the program and discuss the second phase activities, particularly issues related to the creation, structure and decree of the Network's representative body. During the first phase (May 2001-May 2002) of the Caucasus NGO Networking Program, 14 partnership projects have been implemented at local and regional levels. The projects were aimed at raising the beneficiaries' level of awareness on their rights and promoting their participatory behavior. Also, the "Early Warning, Early Response System" (EWERS) was established to mobilize the network in case of emergency and to find quick and effective solutions. The "Infoterminal" (http://www.cringo.net ) program web site was developed as well. As a follow up to the Tsakhkadzor seminar, the decree of the Network's representative body is currently being discussed by the participating parties and will be finalized during an encounter in May in Baku, where the program objectives and activities for the second phase will also be finalized and a number of other issues, related to the second phase of the grants program, will be discussed.

AAA NGO Training and Resource Center is the national focal point of the Danish Refugee Council in Armenia within the framework of the Caucasus NGO Networking Program. For more information on the first phase of the program, see Issues 6 and 8 of the Newsletter.

Contact: Natalia Harutiunyan, AAA NGO Training and Resource Center; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 54-40-12; E-mail: nata@ngoc.am

SIX NGOs WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE "NGO CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM"

On March 19, 2002, "NGO Capacity Building Program", initiated by the Armenian Assembly of America's NGO Center, was launched. The goal of the program is to contribute to the development of local NGOs dealing with social and/or primary health care issues. The program encompasses the following components:

· "NGO Management" training including a series of lectures and workshops on such topics, as human and financial resource management; fundraising; planning and decision making; public relations, etc.;
· Individual consultancy services on strategic planning;
· Dialogue between representatives of NGOs, international organizations, public structures and mass media, to discuss problems, find ways of cooperation and exchange information;
· Executive Study Retreat, which will enable the participating NGOs to present their activities, discuss issues of concern and find joint solutions;
· Grants program aimed at capacity building of the participating NGOs.

The "NGO Capacity Building Program" participants are the following NGOs: Association of Children's Health Protection; Armenian Association of Family Physicians; "Lusatsir" Charitable NGO; "Green Way to Generations" Women's NGO; "Gifted Children" Charitable Foundation; "Armenian Habitat" NGO.

Contact: Knarik Arabyan, AAA NGO Training and Resource Center; 20 Koghbatsi St.; Tel.: (3741) 54-40-12; E-mail: knarik@ngoc.am

ARMENIAN CULTURE IS PRESENTED ABROAD

On the initiative of the "Armenian Teenagers' Cultural Union" NGO, the "Araks" Dance Group will participate in the First International Folk Festival to be held in Nepal from December 12 through December 18, 2002, and organized by the Nepal-based "Everest" International Organization of Cultural Preservation and Exchange. Aside from participating in the Festival, the Group will also perform in Hong Kong, Thailand, Nepal (Katmandu), China and at the Armenian College in Calcutta. Currently, the "Armenian Teenagers' Cultural Union" NGO is involved in program development and planning of the trip.

It is worth noting that on the initiative and supervision of this NGO, "Tatev" Dance Group of St. Echmiadzin and of AGBU Malatia Hayordats Tun, participated in the Aberdeen (Scotland) International Youth Festival from July 13 through August 31, 2001. On the occasion of the 1700th anniversary of the adoption of Christianity in Armenia, the group performed in 14 European countries and received a warm welcome not only by Armenian communities, but also by non Armenians.

Good luck to the "Armenian Teenagers' Cultural Union" NGO.

Contact: Vardan Vardanyan, "Armenian Teenagers' Cultural Union" NGO; 11/49 Aygestan St.; Tel.: (3741) 57-84-68; E-mail: union@freenet.am

CONSUMERS' RIGHTS PROTECTION IN THE SOUTHERN CAUCASUS

The Union of Consumers' Rights Protection develops the "Consumer's Voice" monthly supplement to the ,,Aaeiaie Yeni?ann" (Business Express) weekly. The supplement is published within the framework of the "Consumer Movement in the Southern Caucasus (Monitoring, Information Exchange and Advocacy)" regional project, implemented by the Union of Consumers' Rights Protection (Armenia), Union of Free Consumers (Azerbaijan) and 21st Century Union (Georgia) with the assistance of the Eurasia Foundation. This is the first serious step towards protecting the Southern Caucasus market from unsafe food, acting with legislative initiatives and informing the region's consumers about the current situation in markets not only in their countries, but also in the neighboring countries. The "Consumer's Voice" supplement, as well as the monthly radio programs aired by Armenian Public Radio, present the public at-large the monitoring process of the products, results of research and inform the consumers of legislative acts in this area.

Contact: Abgar Yeghoyan, Union of Consumers' Rights Protection; 10 Hanrapetutian St.; Tel.: (3741) 56-37-79, 56-20-82; E-mail: abgar@freenet.am

RURAL WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN ARMENIA

From March 20-23, 2002, the regular workshop in a series of training courses for twenty women from bordering villages of Armenia was held within the framework of the "Rural Women's Leadership Project in Armenia". The goal of the project, implemented by the Rutgers State University (USA) and "Democratic Union" Center for Gender Research (Armenia), is to increase rural farm women's participation in needs assessment, policy making and leadership activities in the agricultural sector through the acquisition of relevant skills and knowledge. Through three cycles of training, the women will learn how to train other rural women, women's NGOs or community groups, analyze community problems, establish priorities and develop collective advocacy strategies and plans of action. The project will result in the creation of local and national coalitions of rural women and will lead to trans-border cooperation with interested Georgian parties to promote women's participation in the solution of problems in public policy and agriculture. The project is being implemented with the assistance of the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and USDA.

Contact: Gyulnara Shahinyan, "Democratic Union" Center for Gender Research; Tel.: (3741) 565680; E-mail: sshah@arminco.com

*** REHABILITATION TREATMENT OF DISABLED CHILDREN

*** "VALUING OLD AGE AS A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STIMULUS"

*** THE FIRST STEPS IN DEVELOPMENT OF THE MENTAL HEALTH POLICY

*** MONTH-LONG ACTION TO CLEAN UP THE HRAZDAN GORGE

*** "ARMENIAN HABITAT" WILL WORK WITH TEN MORE FAMILIES

*** ART KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES

*** FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

REHABILITATION TREATMENT OF DISABLED CHILDREN

The "Sakura" Charitable NGO has been awarded a 6280 USD grant from the Canadian Embassy in Russia to purchase equipment for rehabilitation treatment of disabled children. Through this project, "Sakura" will support 300 beneficiaries through treatment and social and psychological rehabilitation, as well as teach how to properly use prosthetic and orthetic devices in the "Orthes" Center. This initiative will enable the disabled children to become smoothly involved in processes vitally important to them.

Contact: Nune Aghababyan; "Sakura" Charitable NGO; 5a Griboyedov St., #28; Tel.: (3741) 232429; E-mail: levonmov@freenet.am; sakura@armenia.com

"VALUING OLD AGE AS A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STIMULUS"

This is the title of the project "Vanadzor and Sister Cities" NGO has recently begun to implement, with the assistance of USAID through World Learning. With the objective of addressing needs of the elderly, "Vanadzor and Sister Cities" has created an elderly community center, consisting of three working groups: organizational, informational and cultural. These groups will enable beneficiaries to become involved in community life and volunteering activities. A newsletter, highlighting the center's activities, will be published and a television program on the problems and contributions of the elderly will be aired on the local TV station. A roundtable and seminar are also planned with the participation of local self-governing bodies, representative body of the community, NGOs and Mass Media representatives in order to draw the interested parties' attention to the problems of the elderly. In addition, city events, entitled "Cultural Heritage as a Precondition for Dialogue between Generations" and "Honored Elderly of the Year", will be held. Upon completion of the project, it is expected that the elderly and those who will be involved in the Vanadzor community center activities, will be able to raise the quality of their lives thanks to social and work adaptation.

Contact: Sofia Kalantaryan, "Vanadzor and Sister Cities" NGO; Vanadzor; 1 Tumanyan St., apt. 90; Tel.: (374 51) 44807; Fax: (374 51) 43460; E-mail: skalantaryan@yahoo.com

THE FIRST STEPS IN DEVELOPMENT OF THE MENTAL HEALTH POLICY

Mental Health Foundation, with the assistance of the British organization "Community Fund", has initiated a three-year project, aimed at developing an effective strategy for the mental health field by involving all interested parties in an active dialogue. The project envisions a series of training courses and seminars, site visits and other events.

On March 21-22, 2002, the first training course in the series was held in Tsakhkadzor, Armenia. The event was dedicated to the problems of the mental health field in Armenia. Presented were various models applicable to the field policy. European Covenant on Human Rights provisions, directly related to the mental health field, were clarified. Participants discussed issues related to civic groups' involvement in and influence on policy development and implementation processes and the creation of a network of interested parties. Participating in the course were representatives of local and international organizations and public structures, dealing with mental health and human rights protection issues. The proper policy carried out in the republic will contribute to harmonization in society and, if necessary, to the execution of rehabilitation and rights protection processes.

Contact: Arman Vardanyan, Mental Health Foundation, 5 Arshakunyats St.; Tel.: (374-1) 57-16-03, 26-93-55; E-mail: vardanyan@mentalhealth.am; Web site: http://www.mentalhealth.am

MONTH-LONG ACTION TO CLEAN UP THE HRAZDAN GORGE

From March 14 through April 14, 2002, the Association for Human Sustainable Development, Armenian Geographic Society and "Karavan 88" NGOs, in cooperation with the Yerevan Municipality, initiated a month-long action to improve the Hrazdan River Gorge. Every Saturday, representatives of NGOs and community members planted trees, set up litter bins and worked on general improvements. The initiative was carried out as part of the Hrazdan Gorge environmental project, funded by USAID through World Learning. In order to improve the ecological situation of the Gorge, a recreation area will be created, a summer camp for 400 schoolchildren in the community will be established, and the level of the public awareness on environmental issues of the Gorge will be raised through training courses in schools and brochures distributed to community members.

Contact: Lilit Sargsyan, Association for Human Sustainable Development; Tel.: (374-1) 22-79-69, 57-12-36; E-mail: sdyouth@freenet.am

"ARMENIAN HABITAT" WILL WORK WITH TEN MORE FAMILIES

Due to successful fundraising and program implementation, "Armenian Habitat" Charitable NGO will support ten more families to finish construction of their semi-built houses. During the past two years, "Armenian Habitat" has assisted ten vulnerable families in the Yerevan, Aragatsotn, Armavir, Armavir, Ararat and Kotayk regions to buy, repair and finish semi-built houses. Families, competitively selected, are provided with long-term and interest-free loans in the form of construction materials. Construction is done by family members and NGO volunteers. Similar activities will loosen the material polarization of the population in the republic, through solution of the housing problem. "Habitat for Humanity International" assists the local NGO in implementing this activity.

Contact: Ashot Yeghiazaryan, Charitable NGO "Armenian Habitat", 40 Tumanyan St., apt. 50; Tel.: (374-1) 53-22-57; E-mail: armenianhabitat@hotmail.com; Web site: http//www.armenianhabitat.am

ART KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES

To contribute to the self-establishment and vocational orientation of children in boarding schools, the Charitable Foundation "Gifted Children", with the assistance of the OSI Assistance Foundation Armenia Office, has implemented a project entitled "Selection of the Road". Over the course of eight months, under the supervision of a psychologist, drawing, sculpture, theatre and gobelin weaving classes were held twice a week in three Yerevan based boarding schools of Yerevan. During project implementation gifted children (from disabled and non-disabled groups) were selected to continue the classes in an integrated group. As mentioned by Armenak Aknuni, Project Coordinator, "The fact, that the almighty language of the art completely eliminated shyness between children of various abilities, is noteworthy".

Contact: Viktoria Keshishyan, Charitable Foundation "Gifted Children"; 7 Tigranyan St.; Tel.: (374-1) 22-25-93; E-mail: gccf@ngoc.am; gccf@acc.am

FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

"Center for Social and Economic and Legal Reforms" NGO implemented the "Healthy Lifestyle" project, aimed at revealing personal and community needs of families living in temporary dwellings of the First Housing District in Vanadzor. Information, obtained from survey results, will enable the NGO to clarify social and primary healthcare needs of the community and consequently provide effective services. The survey results will form part of the community policy plan. If successfully implemented, there will be a better living environment for the community.

Contact: Noune Jomardyan, 50/22 Tigran Mets St.; Tel.: (374-51) 2-46-32; (374-1) 62-08-72; E-mail: stibk@list.ru

*** "HUMAN RIGHTS IN ARMENIA" WEBSITE LAUNCHED

*** "WOMEN IN ARMENIA: RECOGNIZING THE PRESENT, PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE"

*** DEVELOPMENT OF AGRO-TOURISM IN THE FOCUS

*** "OVASIS" STUDIO FOR DEAF YOUNG PEOPLE

*** ONE YEAR OF ACTIVITIES OF THE "YOUTH CENTER"

*** PARTICIPATION OF THE "GREEN WAY TO GENERATIONS" NGO IN THE CONFERENCE ON COMMON FUTURE

*** INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON REGIONAL SECURITY ISSUES

"HUMAN RIGHTS IN ARMENIA" WEBSITE LAUNCHED

On April 19, the "Civil Society Development Union" NGO presented its "Human Rights in Armenia" website. The website was developed with financial support received from the OSI Assistance Foundation Armenia Office and is aimed at creating a common information framework in the field of human rights protection. The site contains articles and news on human rights protection issues, corresponding legislation, as well as announcements on international events and funding opportunities. The site presents a database of local NGOs dealing with human rights issues. With a login name and password, the database will enable the NGOs to regularly update information related to them. The website address is http://www.hra.am.

Contact: Artak Kirakosyan, "Civil Society Development Union" NGO; 31/19 Moskovian St.; Tel.: (374-1) 53-32-83; E-mail: csdu@csdu.am

"WOMEN IN ARMENIA: RECOGNIZING THE PRESENT, PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE"

This was the title of the campaign, initiated by the Women's Republican Council from March 8 to April 7, 2002, in Yerevan and all other marzes of Armenia. The goal of the action was to emphasize the valuable contributions, that women make in Armenian communities. Special emphasis was given to the increased attention among the residents of Armenia to the particular concerns facing the women of the country, increased recognition of women's issues in Armenia and active participation by women in public life on local, regional and national levels. The campaign included the following events: Community meetings with famous local women; Various free-of-charge professional services for and/or by women; Meetings between women and government officials; Charitable activities; Concerts and exhibitions; Round tables, community forums, workshops, television and radio programs and legislative initiatives on women's issues. The participants were varied: families; representatives of local, regional and state authorities, cultural, educational, health and social welfare institutions, women activists and officials, NGOs, international organizations, mass media, businesses and youth.

Contact: Nora Hakobyan, Women's Republican Council; Tel.: (374-1) 53 85 91, 534506; E-mail: nora@arminco.com

DEVELOPMENT OF AGRO-TOURISM IN THE FOCUS

"Development of Eco-Agrotourism in the South Caucasus", a regional project implemented by Ecotourism Association (Armenia), "Pilgrim" NGO (Azerbaijan) and Agrotourism Association (Georgia), with the assistance of Eurasia Foundation, is underway. The goal of the project is to contribute to the development of tourism in regions, which will stimulate the development of rural communities, protected areas and regional small and medium tourism enterprises. Of particular concern are farms and rural communities, that have health and cognitive significance for their environmental and climatic features, historic and cultural monuments and customs. The project envisions the development of a database, website and journal-guidebook, with comprehensive information on eco-agrotourist resources of the region. These resources are natural and cultural heritage, including protected areas, agrotourist farms, rural houses, food units, tourism centers and hotels. Also, a list of joint eco-agrotourist routes will be compiled. All this will be provided to private tourist structures.

Contact: Zhanna Galyan, Ecotourism Association; Tel.: (374-1) 27-87-28; E-mail: zhanna@netsys.am

"OVASIS" STUDIO FOR DEAF YOUNG PEOPLE

On April 23, 2002, the 150th performance of the trainees of the "Ovasis" Theatre-Studio of Pantomime took place. In this Studio, founded by the "Kamk ev Korov" NGO in 1998, young people-both hearing impaired and non-hearing impaired--are taught actor's mastery, pantomime technique, acrobatics and dance by skilful artists-pedagogues. As a result, the hearing impaired young people not only rid themselves of complexes, but also became spiritually developed. Mary Pahutyan, President of the NGO, emphasizes the integration of the disabled young people with their non-disabled peers. "Today, both disabled and non-disabled trainees of the Studio have reached a mutual understanding, easily communicating with one another", says Ms. Pahutyan. The deaf children's dance group functions within the framework of the Studio. The group regularly performs during festivals, aired by the Prometevs and AR TV Stations. Another example of the success of "Kamk ev Korov" is the exhibition of paintings and ceramics created by hearing impaired and non-hearing impaired young people of the Ceramic Studio, founded by the NGO. The British organization OXFAM, the Dutch NOVIB, as well as OSI Assistance Foundation Armenia Office assist the NGO in its activities.

Contact: Mary Pahutyan, "Kamk ev Korov" NGO; Tel.: (374-1) 53-85-41; E-mail: kamkorov@netsys.am

ONE YEAR OF ACTIVITIES OF THE "YOUTH CENTER"

For already a year, through the efforts of the "For Family and Health Association" NGO, its "Youth Center" has been functioning for juveniles, young people and newly married couples. The Center's doctors-pediatrician, dermatologist-venereologist and gynecologist-conduct free medical examination, as well as provide counseling on issues related to juvenile puberty, sexual and reproductive health and family planning. In the center, seminars and meetings are held for juveniles, young couples, parents, teachers, medical workers and community members on topics concerning sexual and reproductive health protection. A library is also available for visitors. "For Family and Health Association" NGO conducts this activity with the assistance of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, whose European Network's member is the NGO.

The address of the "Youth Center" is 14/1 Vardanants St.; Tel.: (374-1) 54-08-15, 54-08-14; E-mail: armfpa@arminco.com; Web site: http://members.tripod.com/armfpa

PARTICIPATION OF THE "GREEN WAY TO GENERATIONS" NGO IN THE CONFERENCE ON COMMON FUTURE

From March 14 through March 17, 2002, the "Women in Europe for a Common Future" conference was held in Prague. Women from 30 nations of Western, Central and Eastern Europe, CIS Countries and Central Asia met to express their concerns to World Leaders preparing for the UN World Summit on Sustainable Development, to be held in Johannesburg, from August 26 through September 4, 2002. Karine Manukyan of the "Green Way to Generations" Women's NGO participated in the conference and presented the topic "Biological Essence of Sustainable Development." Ms. Manukyan also participated in working groups, entitled "Health and Environment" and "Biodiversity and Genetic Technologies" and offered suggestions on the significance of educational programs on environment, primary and reproductive health, as well as on the hazards of Genetically Modified Organisms. These and other presented issues were later summed up and included in a Statement, developed by the conference participants. The Statement covers a wide range of problems on conflicts, poverty, environment, food, human rights, health, agriculture and gender. The Statement and other materials on the conference are available at http://www.wecf.org.

Contact: Karine Manukyan, "Green Way to Generations" Women's NGO; 35 Khanjyan St., apt. 2; Tel.: (374-1) 580280; E-mail: zmanuk@arminco.com

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON REGIONAL SECURITY ISSUES

The "Institute for Civil Society and Regional Development" NGO (ICSRD) organized an international conference entitled "Shaping an Environment for Peace, Stability, and Confidence in South Caucasus. The Role of International and Regional Security Organizations", on April 25-26, 2002. The Conference assembled politicians, researchers, state officials and NGOs from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Germany, Greece, Russia, Switzerland, Turkey and UK. The Conference provided an opportunity for participants to discuss, in a professional environment, regional and international policy issues, various manifestations and perspectives of geopolitical transformations, as well as possibilities of creating an environment of security and trust. The sessions covered the following topics: Security Environment in the South Caucasus after the Dissolution of the USSR: Realities and Challenges; The New Security Challenges and the Role of International and Regional Security Institutions; Effective Mechanisms and Directions of Regional Security Institutions Activity in the New Security Environment: Prospects and Limitations. Conference results were summed up during a roundtable discussion, reviewing the participants' positions and identifying possible ways for their implementation.

The event was supported by the NATO Office of Information and Press, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Foundation and OSI Assistance Foundation Armenia Office, Embassy of Italy in Armenia.

Contact: Aghavni Karakhanyan, "Institute for Civil Society and Regional Development" NGO; Tel.: (374-1) 58-61-21; E-mail: aghavni@netsys.am