Our Chapter has greatly enjoyed the fantastic retreats we've had at the Ararat Center for many years. Everything about the Center is perfect for us: the light-filled, roomy facility; the unparalleled food; the casual, friendly atmosphere and terrific staff; the large, comfortable bedrooms; the pool. I could go on and on, but the fact that we return year after year, and even went twice in 2009, is proof of our devotion to this facility.

Being at the Ararat Center is a nice way to start the school year off. I enjoy the grounds with the backdrop of the mountains. And the best part is at night to look up and see the sky filled with stars.

The Ararat Center was the ideal choice for our Mirijanian Family Reunion. We enjoyed the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, the rooms were clean and comfortable, and the food was delicious!

There were activities for every member of our family to enjoy; from the youngest to the young at heart. We picnicked and played volleyball and basketball; we lounged by the pool and roasted marshmallows by the campfire. We gathered for conversation, enjoyed quality family time, and created wonderful memories.

We would encourage all families to take advantage of the great facilities that the Ararat Center has to offer. We’re looking forward to coming back for our next reunion!

The Ararat Center is a true place for spiritual growth. The site is in a perfect location for getting away from the every day life and focusing on the beauties of God’s creation and His call in all of our lives. The Center provides an excellent facility for conducting Diocesan camps and programs for Armenian-Christians of all ages.

Everyone I spoke with was very enthusiastic about this WGCC weekend Symposium at the Ararat Center. They commented that the workshops and lectures were interesting and enjoyable, the setting and scenery was beautiful, and the accommodations were comfortable and even nicer than expected.

The Ararat Center, located within a few hours from metropolitan New York City, was a great getaway from city life. It easily accommodated our group of 50 plus, some of whom traveled from as far as Washington, DC.  It provided the perfect location for a weekend of outdoor activities, social gatherings and camaraderie. And the facilities were ideal.

The large campfire was great for an evening under the stars. The food was excellent. Our group had a hefty breakfast and a delicious dinner that surpassed our expectations. The staff was fantastic. They were very helpful and accommodating to our needs. Any question or issue they were ready to assist.

Everybody had a terrific time and can’t wait to return. They had nothing but high praises for the Center. Yes, we will definitely come back and we’re already booking for next year. This will be our home away from home.

The Diocese has acquired a gem for the benefit of the Armenian community.

Having been involved with St. Vartan Camp in various capacities for well over a decade, I am thankful to God for the Ararat Center.  There is such a huge difference between renting a facility and having a permanent site to call our own. The Ararat Center is truly the home of St. Vartan Camp. Every time I arrive at the Center, I feel such a sense of warmth that only an Armenian home can bring.

Having completed my second year as the St. Vartan Camp Director, I have personally witnessed and experienced the transformation that can only occur by the endless possibilities afforded through owning our own place. St. Vartan Camp has always been a strong and wonderful program from its inception due, in large part, to the many dedicated former directors and staff members.  But, now that we have this site, we are able to enhance and expand upon the program every year. Most recently the addition of the new pavilion with its classrooms, in and of itself, has brought the St. Vartan Camp program to a different level.

Many of the staff members participate in work weekends, designed to improve the facility, because they truly feel a sense of ownership.  However, the facility is not simply the home for St. Vartan Camp, rather it is also the home for all of us in the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church. I encourage everyone to become stewards of the Ararat Center through giving of your time, talent and treasure so that St. Vartan Camp can continue to touch the lives of hundreds of young people every summer.