Armenian Relief Society

Providence “ARAX” Chapter

History and Mission

The Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) was originally founded in 1910 in New York City by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation to provide humanitarian assistance to Armenians throughout the world. The ARS today is an internationally based, non-profit organization serving the social, medical and educational needs of Armenian communities throughout the world. ARS headquarters are presently located in Watertown, Massachusetts.  The organization is active on seven continents with a membership of approximately 18,000. The organizational publication – Hai Sird [The Armenian Heart]  is printed and distributed at the end of each calendar year with articles in English, Armenian, Arabic, French and Spanish. The ARS is also an NGO [Non-Governmental Organization] on the roster of ECOSOC [Economic & Social Council] at the United Nations in a consultative status.  Representatives of the ARS attend weekly informational sessions, and the ARS cooperates and participates with other NGO members at the United Nations in New York.

Organizational Structure

The mission of the ARS is carried out by the International Board of Directors elected at the organization’s triennial conventions.  In North America there are three Regional entities – East, West and Canadian Regionals.  In addition to regional and local activities and programs, every entity in the world responds to the International Board’s request for assistance in emergency situations and through their long term on-going projects and programs in Armenia and Karabagh.  Some of those international projects are described in the Providence “Ani” Chapter’s information.

Providence “Arax” Chapter Background

The “Arax” Chapter, established in 1910, is part of the ARS Eastern Region which consists of 33 chapters east of the Mississippi River. The Eastern Region holds its annual convention during the month of July. In addition to fulfilling its organizational obligations, the ARS “Arax” chapter is an integral part of the local community with its support of the following:

·     Mourad Armenian Saturday School                       

·     ARS Summer Studies Program

·     Camperships for AYF Summer Camp      

·     “Walk Armenia” Fundraiser

·     International Youth Exchange Program     

·     Blood Drive

·     ARS Educational Scholarships                  

·     Armenian Mother of the Year

Who May Join?

Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older.

When Does The “Arax” Chapter Meet?

Meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month except July and August. 

Who May I Contact In Order To Join?

Please contact Marlene Vichabian, email at vichabian@msn.com for more information.

 or visit the ARS International Headquarters website at www.ARS1910.org .