ARARAT CENTER ENTERS THIRD YEAR
Diocesan-owned facility reaching for its full potential
with expansion projects and Armenian flavor mixed in

February 7 (GREENVILLE, NY) – In January of 2004, the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) made a bold and foresighted move to purchase 65 acres of land in upstate New York. Formerly the site of a family-owned resort, the Diocesan Camp Search Committee saw the full potential of utilizing this facility for not only the permanent home of the St. Vartan Camp program, but also envisioned parishes and the ecumencial community hosting a variety of gatherings on site.

In addition, it has been thought to incorporate elements of Armenia into the Ararat Center through historical, spiritual and cultural touches, thereby reinforcing the presence of the homeland.

This entire vision continues to become a reality as preparations for the third operating season of the Ararat Center are underway, plans for building expansions and beautification progress, and the Armenian flavor is incorporated at every turn. In this series of articles, learn how the Ararat Center is evolving into the jewel of the Diocese.

Experiencing the Center’s Potential
People of all ages, and a variety of groups, have already discovered the benefits of this facility. The Armenian Church Youth Organization of America (ACYOA), the Association of Armenian Church Choirs of America, the Armenian Missionary Association of America, St. Nersess Armenian Seminary, various avak (senior) groups, and local ecumenical leaders have enjoyed the facility over the past two years, planning return trips.

“The ACYOA has used the Ararat Center for several weekend events in the last two years; it’s a wonderful venue for both small and large group programs,” shared Nancy Basmajian, ACYOA Executive Secretary, adding, “I especially like it in the fall; the air is so crisp and the scenery is so striking. It’s the perfect setting for a spiritual retreat or even a committee meeting. The young adult participants at one of our programs spent more time outdoors than they did indoors. We had campfires, basketball games and hikes. The facilities are very comfortable and the food is great! What more could we ask for? We’ll definitely be back!”

And what more could the Diocese ask for in this ideally located facility just 30 miles south of Albany, NY, nestled on the edge of the serene Catskill Mountains?

“We are pleased with the facility and all its amenities. I think the Center has proven to be a very wise investment by the Diocese with only better things to come as we plan for expansion projects in the near future,” explained Stephen Hovnanian, Chairman of the Ararat Center Board of Directors.

The Dedication to Succeed and Grow
Those who contributed towards the initial idea of purchasing such a facility should also be content in knowing how the facility is being maintained and improved upon by a team of dedicated volunteers and employees. The Board of Directors consist of Stephen Hovnanian of Cheltenham, PA; Fr. Arakel Aljalian of Watertown, MA; Thomas Ashbahian of Fair Lawn, NJ; Nancy Basmajian of Cheltenham, PA; Karnig & Karen Durgarian of Framingham, MA; Rose Najarian-Kedeshian of Fair Lawn, NJ; Randy Sapah-Gulian of Trumbull, CT; Fr. Shnork Souin from Livingston, NJ; and Michael Zeytoonian of Framingham, MA. Yn. Paulette Doudoukjian of Watervliet, NY, serves as the Manager of Marketing & Communications, while the former owners of the center, Len & Jyl Degiovine, remain on as the Facility Managers.

Currently, the Board of Directors is planning for a multi-purpose pavilion to be built with four classrooms attached. This will serve to enhance the already existing buildings and recreational offerings.

However, numerous other enhancements to this already well-maintained facility are ongoing thanks to teams of enthusiastic and hard-working volunteers who have put in more than 2,500 hours in the past two years. Some areas of improvements have included painting, changing windows, building decks, adding foundations, landscaping and furniture replacement.

Bringing People Home
The feel of Armenia also resonates throughout the facility as these same buildings and recreational areas have been renamed after historic Armenian regions. In addition, the Armenian flag now proudly waves onsite. Immediately in front of the flag poles, a small monument symbolic of the Genocide memorial in Armenia, will be erected with the names of those who have contributed to the Center prior to December 31, 2004. The “Founding Faithful” as they will be known, will be honored for their dedication and vision in supporting such a facility that stands as a representation of the Armenians survival and growth in America.

As Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), stated during the opening season of the facility, “This is our new home. A home for all Armenian families. A place where we can renew our spirit, celebrate our heritage and train leaders for tomorrow.”

Come home to the Ararat Center and let your spirit soar.