My volunteering experience started in “Orran” when I was just 13 years old. Everyone welcomed me warmly. It only took me a few days to fall in love with everyone and everything in “Orran”.

“Orran” has been the place, where I have witnessed reciprocal relationships with a high spirit of cooperation. I was encouraged and supported to conduct any projects that I wanted without limiting my ideas. They always come up with alternative solutions that usually push the creative ideas even further for the sake of our precious and bright generation.

Not only the children, but also staff members have been my like-minded friends. No one in “Orran” can simply pass through the corridors without smiling, because the environment there keeps you satisfied all the time.

“Orran” community believes that the age is just a number, if someone wants to change something in their reality. Thank you “Orran” not only for granting me the opportunity to help others to realize their potential, but also to learn from them, gain authentic experience and have impact on the community.

-Serly Keoshkerian

We were one of the lucky ones to volunteer for the Orran Charitable Organization. As students at St. George’s High School, our goal was nothing more than to preach love to children and answer their questions as much as possible. At Orran, we found wonderful children and teenagers from whom we learned so much. Every week we waited impatiently to see the same bright eyes of the Orran children. We got to know each of them personally, loved each of them in a unique way and carry them in our hearts . We were happy to work with the staff of the center, whose goals are to prepare a good future generation.

Helping someone is an indisputable proof of Christian love and devotion. In general, the Armenian Apostolic Church, in particular the St. George’s Theological Seminary, has always encouraged and appreciated every humanitarian initiative. It was on this basis that the friendship of “Orran” seminary was established and we as volunteer ambassadors  were fortunate to be a part of it. There is no greater proof for us of the existence of God than the love we have given, and in return received from Orran. The word of Christ is true: “Children are the kingdom of heaven.”

-Hovhaness Avetisyan & Gevorg Karapetian

It was an honor to serve as a Peace Corps Community and Youth Development Volunteer at Orran Vanadzor’s Center. I deeply respect Orran’s history and vision. It is truly inspiring to see the beautiful space and the vital programs that the center provides children and the elderly. I will never forget the sense of awe I had when I first visited the space and witnessed the wonderful activities taking place. Orran truly empowers youth and families every day. I admire the passion and kindness of the staff who welcomed me and became like family. It has been a true joy to work with the kind, resilient, and talented children in Orran. Volunteering at Orran’s Vanadzor Center has been a gift and I will always treasure my time here.

– Ani Alexandrian