Introductory Remarks Empowerment of Six Communities Gyumri Social Centre Renovation of Karakert Spiritual and Cultural Centre Af

Home , Berkaber, Diocese of Artik, Diocese of Kotayk, Dprabak, Gegharkunik Province, Kalavan

Introductory remarks ART was founded by:

Happenings within the year 2009 continued to be under weight of internal and external Armenian Apostolic Church realities. World Council of Churches Having to deal with geopolitical realities, Armenia faced the challenge of mitigating do- mestically the aftereffects of global financial crisis, which hit hardest Armenia compared Membership to countries in the region for a number of reasons of internal and external origin. Armenia recorded the greatest decline in GDP among CIS countries and a reversal of the gains in pov- ART and its staff is a member of the following networks: erty reduction, which is still continuing. According to the World Bank, the crisis could push • ACT Alliance 172,000 people below the poverty line in 2009-2010, increasing the total number of poor to • APRODEV Eastern Europe Platform 906,000, out of which 297,000 people would be extremely poor. As a response to worsening • Different commissions of WCC socio-economic conditions in the country, the ART exerted efforts through its Integrated • Eastern European Church Anti-AIDS network Community Development programme to pursue a long-term change by empowering com- • Funding member of “The East” foundation munities for development and implementation of own strategic options towards different, • Europe and Central Asia Faith Based Organizations and UNFPA Partnership Net- targeted as social, economic, spiritual and environmental improvements in a participatory work on Population and Development approach and sustainable process, launched and strengthened in rural and vulnerable communities in Armenia. Staff Having an aim to contribute to another long-standing process, improvement of regional Karen Nazaryan, Executive Director dialogue for peace and reconciliation, ART has recognized the importance and need for Tsovinar Ghazaryan, Programme Officer availing direct people-to-people contacts and boosting people’s diplomacy as potential and Karine Baghdasaryan, Programme Officer consequential solution to trust building and attitude change. With this consideration, the Rubina Devrikyan, Programme Officer ART in cooperation with Armenian and Azerbaijani partners continued implementation of Alla Sarkissova, Programme Officer “Promoting Dialogue for Regional Reconciliation” programme aiming to encourage more Elmira Madoyan, Chief Accountant perceptive ideas for peace at public level in both countries and as a step in the process avail- Tsovinar Manvelyan, Accountant ing immediate contacts between peace activists from both sides. This is one of rare public David Atabekyan, Lawyer initiatives carried out in both countries as an input into reconciliation dialogue and opening Susanna Aleksanyan, Administrative Assistant space for people-to-people contacts, which is exclusion rather a complement to policy op- Satenik Harutyunyan, Programme Officer Assistant tions and existing opportunities. Seda Tonoyan, Programme Officer Assistant Beyond the region, Armenia has prioritized integration with European organizations Aleksan Ter-Avetisyan, Driver and made an entry to the European Union a robust policy goal of Armenia. The Eastern Partnership programme and participation of civil society in it are seen as an opportunity to modernize in line with EU standards and support fundamental human rights and freedoms, good governance and democracy. In the process civil society is seen an important actor for involvement in national decision making and in the development of social dialogue. The ART as well is concerned with contributing to sustainability of civil society and raising its capacity for as effective as possible involvement in achievement of partnership’s aims and European integration.

With the consideration of strategic and development issues, and challenges in social, political, ecological and economic aspects, ART has carried on and will sustain its efforts in implementation of a holistic programme that works committed and in ways that respond to needs for promoting sustainable livelihoods and growth, civil society development and strengthening, regional dialogue and peaceful co-existence.

Armenia Round Table Foundation Board of Trustees Other Partners Emergency Management State Academy The members of the Board are: Microsoft, RA Bishop Markos Hovhannissian, Chairman, Armenian Apostolic Church, Prelate of Ministry of Education of RA Gegharkunik Diocese “Shoghakat” TV Company, Yerevan Bishop Hovakim Manoukyan, Armenian Apostolic Church, Head of inter-church relations Theological Faculty of Yerevan State University department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Fr. Vahram Melikyan, Armenian Apostolic Church, Head of information department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Foreign partners Sister Arousiag Sajonian, Armenian Catholic Church, Superior of “Our Lady of Armenia” Action by Churches Together, Switzerland (ACT Alliance) Convent APRODEV Eastern Europe Platform Rev. Rene Leonyan, Armenian Evangelical Church, Head of Mission of Armenian Missionary Church Development Service – An Association of the Protestant Churches in Germany, Association Germany (EED) Ms. Gohar Grigoryan, UMCOR Armenia, Acting Head of Country Office Danish Armenian Mission/DanChurchAid, Denmark (DAM/DCA), Mr. Hayk Minassyan, “Shen” NGO, Chief Executive Officer Diakonisches Werk/ Bread for the World, Germany (DW/ BftW) Global Ministries, the Netherlands (GM) Inter-church Organization for Development Cooperation, the Netherlands (ICCO) Partners Norwegian Church Aid, Norway (NCA) Local partners Swiss Inter-church Aid, Switzerland (HEKS/EPER), Church The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Armenian Apostolic Church The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Aragatsotn Diocese of AAC World Council of Churches, Switzerland (WCC) Armavir Diocese of AAC Gegharkunik Diocese of AAC Gugark Diocese of AAC Auditor Kotayk Diocese of AAC “SOS-AUDIT” LLC Shirak Diocese of AAC Tavush Vicariate of Gugark Diocese of AAC Armenian Catholic Church Armenian Evangelical Church Christian Education Centre of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Vazkenian Theological Seminary of AAC

NGOs “Aragats” Social Charity Youth NGO, Talin “Association of Judges of Republic of Armenia” NGO, Yerevan “Caravan-88” NGO, Yerevan “Cross of Armenian Unity” NGO, Etchmiadzin “Meghrik” beekeeper’s Foundation, Ijevan “Real World, Real People” social organization, Yerevan “Shen” NGO, Yerevan “World Vision International” Armenian Division “Youth of Jrvezh” Cultural-Educational NGO “Zangakatun” NGO, Yerevan List of Abbreviations Publications “Court and Justice,” AAC Armenian Apostolic Church “Church, State and Society,” AAC Armenian Apostolic Church “Social Rights”, ACC Armenian Catholic Church “Children’s Rights”, AEC Armenian Evangelical Church “Soldier’s spiritual assistance” ART Armenia Round Table CAPS Competitive Armenian Private Sector CC Computer Centres CIS Commonwealth of Independent States DAM Danish Armenian Mission DW Diakonisches Werk EED Church Development Service – An Association of the Protestant Churches in Germany ENP European Neighbourhood Policy ENPI European Neighbourhood Policy Instrument EU European Union GBV Gender-Based Violence GDP Gross Domestic Product HEKS/EPER Swiss Inter-church Aid HIV/AIDS Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome ICCO Inter-church Organization for Development Cooperation ICD Integrated Community Development ICPD International Conference on Population and Development IDU Injective Drug User NCET National Centre for Educational Technologies NGO Non-Governmental Organization OSI Open Society Institute RA Republic of Armenia UN The United Nations Organization UNDP The United Nations Development Programme UNFPA The United Nations Population Fund USAID The United States Agency for International development Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART aims to strengthen the most vulnerable communities, maintain out-of-school and vocational training study ties at different levels and build up community based groups groups for children and young people, launch awareness in a responsive and self-reliant mode. For implementation raising campaigns on a number of social issues, advocate of the Integrated Community Development Programme the for betterment of educational and social systems in the ART worked in cooperation with the Church and parishes, country and development of value base society, contribute partner NGOs and community based groups with a shared to spiritual uplifting of people through clergy involvement objective to promote just and sustainable livelihoods of peo- in a variety of activities. On the whole, the Programme ac- ple by empowering community based groups become active tivities are welcomed and receive positive feedback as noted agents of development. The ICD works to address econom- through site visits and meetings with people, partner report- ic, social, spiritual, educational and environmental issues ing and feedback sharing on part of beneficiaries and part- in the country. Geographically and in investment, the main ners. Combined, activities of individual projects contribute focus of the ICD are the most vulnerable regions in Arme- to community empowerment and strengthening of owner- nia: Shirak and Gegharkunik as first priority areas for big ship, encouraging pro-active behavior on part of commu- scale intervention. Through middle scale projects the ART nity based groups and undertaking responsibility for seek- worked in Tavush, Armavir and Kotayk regions, where ing solutions, sustaining started activities and building on ART had previously started with community related initia- initial success. For all intents and purposes ART is centrally tives and meant to contribute to development of already ex- located serving as a platform where interaction of secular isting activities. Small scale projects are implemented either and spiritual life takes place, where deliberations are given in support of already existing activities or as pilot phases to meeting immediate needs on daily basis and strategizing to touch ground for continuation with middle size provi- for fulfillment of future visions, where efforts of the Church sions. Being different in size and areas of intervention, the and NGOs join as single drops into a stream and make a projects support capacity building initiatives of community dynamic move. The conviction that collaborative endeavors based groups, rehabilitate rural infrastructure, technically will lead towards a desired change inspires activism and equip social centres, encourage income generating activi- gives ground to continue ICD for the coming years. Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ProjectART 09-ICD1 Code: EmpowermentProject Name of Six Communities DecemberDuration 2008 – November 2009

Implementing partner: “Caravan-88” NGO Funding Agency: NCA Project Purpose Overall objective of the project is to promote community development in an integrated way, to empower civic groups in order to become actors for change in their own communities. Objectives to the projects are fostering social, economic and ecological improvement in the targeted area. Target Group Direct target group are training participants: 1145 total. More than 1500 people made use of baths, laundries and health posts. Indirect target group is the total population of six communities of Dzoravank, Antaramej, Dprabak, Aygut, Barepat and Kalavan in Gegharkunik province, total of 2607 (846 women, 944 children, 817 men, 718 elderly, 245 included into state social assistance schemes). Activities and Outcomes Within the social development objective a number of trainings on community development issues were organized, including “How to write a project proposal”. Using newly acquired knowledge community activists developed a number of projects which they later successfully implemented. Among them the following are worth mentioning: libraries were established in all six communities, community resource centres were enriched with digital cameras, musical centres, and tape recorders. An interesting income generating project started in Dprabak and Dzoravank: a bed linen sewing workshop was established, with sales already started. The centre territories were improved in Antaramej, Barepat and Dprabak. Several seminars on legal issues «Know your rights, be protected» was organized, as well as seminars on reproductive health issues for women, health examination of children, etc. Health posts were provided with pharmaceuticals, medical nurses provided free of charge services. The actual number of participants in seminars and trainings usually exceeded the planned number. To organize the leisure of the children different study groups were opened. Together with the existing dance group in Dprabak, another one was organised in Aygut, also painting, puppet making, macramé groups were very popular. To ensure the economic development of the communities a number of trainings took place enhancing the capacities of Knitting lesson for the unemployed Siran in Dzoravank the population and thus making them competitive in the labour market. Computer courses continued in Dparabak, Aygut, community centre a chance to make daily bread for her Kalavan, Antaramej and Dzoravank. The courses involved several age groups, in 2009 more than 120 passed the first step four children (Empowerment of six communities) of computer literacy. In Dzoravank and Dprabak dress making trainings were organized, 70 children and young people participated in the courses. In Dprabak a hairdresser’s was established, fee for services partially covered the electricity bill. Another undertaking for future economic improvement through work from home was embroidery training in five communities under the guidance of experienced teachers. As to the ecological development seminars took place in 2009 as well. Waste cleaning was organized in Aygut, Dprabak and Dzoravank. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees to Armenia Mrs. Bushra Halepota visited Dzoravank, Dprabak and Aygut and got acquainted with the projects. She was very interested and donated two sewing machines to the project. In the result of project implementation community centres in six locations, equipped and furnished with computers, copying, scanning and printing machines, were enriched with more equipment in 2009. Laundries, baths and health posts were working several days a week. People were gradually getting in custom of using their services. Improved social and psychological condition was visible, atmosphere of cooperation and mutual assistance, more active community life were confirmed by community leaders.

Waste cleaning “Gardman” dance group Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09 – ICD2 Gyumri Social Centre July 2007 – December 2010

Implementing partner: Shirak Diocese of AAC Funding Agency: EED Project Purpose To contribute to improving the social, economic and cultural conditions of the people of Gyumri and Shirak region Target Group As an institution of the Apostolic Church, the Social Centre is open for all, but focuses primarily upon vulnerable groups and individuals, the elderly living alone, adults, youth, children, families – mainly young and one parent families, handi- caped, marginal groups, such as lawbreakers, victims of trafficking, the homeless, etc., unemployed, people with psychological problems. The Centre serves more than 6000 people annually with the assistance of staff and a group of volunteers assising the Centre in its daily. Activities and outcomes The Centre worked to accomplish its strategic objectives, activities and outcomes in which are as the follows: Resource centre A functioning Social Centre The Centre has an operational and well equipped two grounds, a staff of about 20 people and a group of about 25 people volunteering at the Centre. The staff and volunteers are engaged on a regular base in capacity building activities to develop and deliver effective services in social, educational, youth projects and public work. Trainings and discussions are held on a variety of themes including social work and social diaconia, human rights, gender issues, media work, social partnership, management, life long learning, environmental protection, leadership, community mobilization, etc. The Centre has elaborated and developed a number of modules for social, educational, cultural, youth and volunteer work, elaborated a plan and projects for fundraising activities, established links and collaboration with local and international organizations. The ecumenical Board of Trustees continued regular meetings, monitoring and evaluation of the Centre work. The Centre continuously fundraises and seeks support for completion of renovations on the third floor of the building. Affordable opportunities for the development of members of vulnerable population Assisted by the work of such directions as social, cultural-educational, youth, pastoral care and counseling the Centre served on a regular base more than 500 people monthly. A data base of about 300 people ranked most vulnerable by 12 criteria was developed by the Centre and shared with municipality and non-governmental organizations. About 14000 people were attended by a range of services including educational, social, information dissemination and computer work, legal, psychological and pastoral counseling by the Resource Centre. The library of the Centre continuously enriched by new books and publications, within the reporting period about 1000 pieces of literature and publications on various themes were added to the library. It now contains more than 6000 volumes of books on arts, history, religion, scientific literature, Youth camp dictionaries, informational leaflets and videos on human rights, trafficking, HIV/AIDS, violence, etc. The reading room of the library accommodated more than 30 presentations of new books and publications, thematic discussions and debates around issues of public interest and actuality, e.g. human rights, family patterns, traditions and values, domestic violence, etc., famous cultural workers, public figures were invited to the Centre. A series of discussions, about 20, on the “Bible and We” was led by Primate of Shirak Diocese His Grace Bishop Mikael Ajapahian. More than 30 events, e.g. exhibition sales of the produce at the own tailoring workshop, celebrations of national and international holidays and Church festivities, etc., were carried out by the Centre youth and elderly clubs, social and cultural-educational departments with the involvement of more than 300 people. Outreach activities including consultations, trainings on community mobilization and rapid rural assessments were done by the Centre for Maralik, Amasia and Ashotsk communities in Shirak region. In 2010 the Centre will continue its regular activities and elaborate a new strategy of work for the period of 2011-2015. Furniture making workshop Conflict resolution discussion Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICD m1 Metsamour Community Centre (Pilot Project on Community Work Model) January 1 – December 31. 2009

Implementing partner: “Zangakatun”NGO Funding Agency: EED Project Purpose The project aims at development of the social life of Metsamour community and activation of community life through different social, educational, ecological and psychological activities. The project has three main objectives: enhance social, ecological and economic development in the targeted area. Target Group Project beneficiaries are 49 most vulnerable families (227 people), including 64 schoolchildren and 13 elderly. More than 1235 beneficiaries were active participants in various meetings, shows, concerts, celebrations and excursions. Activities and Outcomes In 2009 in the frames of the social development objective community based civic action group (CAG) consisting of five “Clown” puppet theatre Celebration of elderly day persons continued monitoring and assisting the project, actively participating in the organisation and implementation of the work with the community. In 2008 the Community Development Plan of Metsamour town for three years was developed. On the basis of this plan the project was further extended deepening community development component. Art and vocational groups (macramé, crocheting, singing, puppet theatre, computer, gardening, etc) successfully worked. The community life of this ignored community was very much activated by several concerts and puppets shows organized in the town club for more than 2000 citizens of Metsamour. The puppet theater “Palancho” (“Clowns”) staged a new play, the famous Armenian tale “A Drop of Honey”. It gave 15 charitable shows in Metsamour in Gyumri, Artik and Byureghavan orphanages and elderly houses, in hospitals in Yerevan, Vanadzor and other places. On June 1, on the Interna- tional Day of Child Protection, a march of puppets was organized in Metsamour, followed by jolly plays in the town square. “Sunflower” choir of the Centre gave more than 10 charitable concerts in 2009. To foster economic development of the community courses in computer literacy were organised for 30 people. Trainees became so skilful that they could develop power point presentations, create leaflets, invitation cards, booklets using computer programmes. Hand work (rings, bracelets, puppets, necklaces, etc) were successfully sold bringing some income to Painting class at Metsamour centre extremely vulnerable families. To enhance the awareness in environmental issues ecological courses continued for 2 groups. During practical work in “Small Paradise” garden children studied planting of seedlings, plant care, endemic plants of Metsamour region, etc. In spring Metsamour population participated in waste cleaning and tree planting, this activity being initiated by project beneficiaries, showing that they were really interested in changing their town into a clean place. In the result of the project about 300 beneficiaries (out of 11620 population of Metsamour) attending the Centre had changed world outlook, with a trust in their power and ability to improve and change something on their own. It is also important that the main part of project beneficiaries were mainly children and youth, and this really allowed for hope that there was a future for projects and overall development of Metsamour. It is worth mentioning that the project stimulated development of volunteer work in the community, thus contributing to its sustainability. 10 former beneficiaries of the project became volunteers and help the project staff with the work in the community. In 2009 an evaluation of the project was carried out by the ART, stating extremely successful outcomes and results.

Celebration of elderly day together with Metsamour mayor Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICDm2 Renovation of Karakert Spiritual and Cultural Centre after Grigor Narekaci April 2009 – August 2009

Implementing partner: Armavir Diocese of AAC Funding Agency: Danish-Armenian Mission and DanChurchAid Project Purpose To renovate and reconstruct Karakert Centre for provision of educational, cultural and social activities for local people Target Group Residents of village Karakert and nearby villages Activities and outcomes The Centre started in 2002 and the building repaired during April-May of the same year. Through course of years’ work the building depreciated. Besides, the Centre did not have such conveniences as toilet and there was no sanitary unit either in the building, or on its territory. Through April-August 2009 following reparation/construction activities were done: • installation of drainage system and toilet in the building; • reparation of the roof; • reparation of the hall (which is used for exhibitions, meetings, rehearsals of dancing group, community events, concerts, etc.); • installation of a boiler for heating of the Centre; • minor renovation of classrooms (smoothing out of walls and colouring)

Before renovation

After renovation Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09 – ICDm4 Support of the Religious and Other Out-of-school Education of the Diocese Armavir July 2007 – June 2010

Implementing partner: Armavir Diocese of AAC Funding Agency: Diakoniscehes Werk Project Purpose To re-introduce Christian faith and Christian values to local communities, raise their responsibility and improve socio- economic situation of local communities, specifically to promote the existing educational and social activities that started with the support of Diakonisches Werk through the ART in villages Karakert and Gai of Armavir region. Target Group About 300 children from socially vulnerable families, schoolchildren, youth groups and elderly of villages Karakert and Gai and their neighborhood Activities and outcomes Gai village Centre About 110 children from Gai and neighbouring Aknashen and Metsamour were attended by the Centre study groups, 5 volunteers of the youth union assisted the Centre in its teaching and community activities. The Centre offered different courses, such as drawing, where children and young people could study graphic design, composition, miniature, still life, landscape, etc.; needle-work and embroidery for learning thematic embroidery works, handcrafts, hand-made cards and envelops, etc., singing including Armenian folk and spiritual music and church hymns also small theatrical performances, computer classes for basic operational skills, carpet weaving, Christianity classes, Bible readings and priest led discussions open for all attendees of the Centre and carried out in different communities. Works of students of embroidery and drawing groups participated in various exhibitions, in the Diocese of Armavir and in Gai village during various events. The choir of the study group sang at liturgies, Church festivities and at pilgrimages. Community pastor regularly visited and met people in places, during these visits Bible stories were read and reflected, discussions held and information shared on Christianity, history, Church, virtues, sacraments, Church festivities, Resur- rection, etc., with youth and adults, who also raised issues and questions of interest and discussions were held around the themes as people prioritized. Apart from its regular course, Gai Centre participated in nationwide competition run among schools under the name “Liturgy by schoolchildren.” Among series of events one was carried out in Metsamor secondary school. Children of Gai Centre performed as well. 10 pilgrimages to different Churches were carried out with initiative and active participation of local communities, about 200 people were involved. The Centre has also invited different public events, e.g. a “Healthy life style” day was organized in Gai Centre with the assistance of volunteers, local priest, UN Armenia, Arabkir Medical Centre with the participation of about 30 people. The Centre involved 110 children in 5 study groups, 1 graduate of the Centre continued majoring in National Aesthetic Centre of Yerevan, 2 graduates of computer classes were employed in Etchmiadzin as operators, a church choir of 15 people was formed and regularly served at liturgies, 2 young people assisted as deacons in the local Church, Centre graduates stay in touch with the Centre and volunteer in teaching and events arrangements. Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09 – ICDm4 Support of the Religious and Other Out-of-school Education of the Diocese Armavir July 2007 – June 2010

Implementing partner: Armavir Diocese of AAC Funding Agency: Diakoniscehes Werk

Village Karakert Centre The main line of the Centre work is Christian education, provision of non-formal and vocational education. This Centre as well accommodates various study groups, such as drawing course, which provides basic and professional background for continuation in a specialized secondary and high education, 7 graduates of the Centre drawing class continued studies in higher institutes of Yerevan; a professional piano course, which is the only one for the village and its neighbourhood with a full cycle of continuous 7 year education, included 21 students, a dancing course, where 40 children and young people learnt national and modern dances, singing course attended by 10 children, Christian education and Bible studies were open for all attendees of the Centre and community, activities of youth union included organization and conduct of celebrations and events, Church festivities in Karakert and neighbouring villages, single elderly care, discussion clubs, visits to historical and cultural sites, pilgrimages to churches with involvement of children, elderly, Centre attendants and community members. With the consideration of recent educational reforms, when secondary schools in Armenia underwent changes in the system, and general education comprises now middle and high schools, the RA Ministry of Education and Science launched operations of arts and crafts vocational colleges within schools, but not all of the schools were able to accommodate high school classes. As there is none in Karakert and neighbourhood, the Centre, Diocese of Armavir and ART considered pos- Pilgrimage to Odzun sibility of placing vocational courses in the Centre. Apart from discussions and negotiations with Ministry of Education and related structures over introducing vocational courses in the Centre, there was also needs assessment done. The Centre, assisted by volunteers from youth union, asked local population (villages Dalarik, Lernagogh, Argina, Shenik and Karakert) over their preferences and needs for vocational education. Based on the results of the non-formal survey, the Diocese of Armavir and Technical and Professional Educational College of Talin collaboratively initiated provision of vocational education within the Centre in hairdressing and beauty treatment. 12 young people from Karakert, Dalarik, Argina, Lernagogh, Artik villages applied for study in this group. Graduates of the course will receive certificates/diplomas issued by the Min- istry of Education and Science of RA, and will be qualified as professionals by the Technical and Professional Educational College of Talin. The Centre study groups included 160 children, 25 young people were engaged in youth union’s activities, 20 elderly people received social support and home care, more than 30 visits, meetings and events were carried out for local communities with the participation of 200 people. The Armavir Diocese undertook funding of the Centre activities in the fields of Christian education and running of such study groups as dancing and singing, and sharing the Centre maintenance costs. Apart from supporting daily of the Centre, the ART also assisted and continues its support with the staff capacity development engaging Karakert and Gai Centre management and staff in a variety of trainings and events facilitated and carried Pilgrimage to Sanahin and spiritual talks with the priest out by ART.

Drawing lesson in the open air Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICD m6 Poverty Reduction – Small Grants (Agro Ecological Project in Armenia) January – December 2009

Implementing partner: Gegharkunik Diocese of the AAC Funding Agency: NCA Project Purpose The overall objective of the project is improvement of sanitary and ecological situation in the targeted area. Objectives of the project are rehabilitation of drinking water system, and awareness rising in efficient water usage and environmental problems in Lake Sevan area Target Group The total number of direct beneficiaries was 700 in Varser and about 1500 in Gavar, both in Gegharkunik province. More than 1500 households (including 27 disabled, 750 children, 900 women, 700 advanced age) benefited, mainly women who carry water, wash and cook, etc. Activities and Outcomes Rehabilitating water system Before start of actual work hydro-engineers finalized the drawings and priority areas and in May after snow thaw out volunteer groups in two communities started the water systems rehabilitation. 350 m of drinking water pipes were installed in Varser and 1000 m in Gavar. After testing systems were handed over to communities for further maintenance. Great was the contribution of Gavar community which allowed repairing 400 more meters. In the result of project implementation the ecological and sanitary situation was improved for about 2200 people, as they start to utilize fresh water, the number of intestinal diseases decreased, as people stopped to use contaminated water.

Severe winter day

Working drinking water pipelines Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICD m7 Honey Production as a Way of Development 2009 January – December 2009

Implementing partner: “Meghrik” Foundation Funding Agency: NCA Project Purpose The project is aimed at improvement of social and economic situation in Ijevan region, Tavush province. The objectives of the project are providing local population with trainings and consultancy in honey production, creating honey production and marketing opportunities. Target Group 450-500 bee keepers were targeted in Ijevan region of Tavush province in Armenia. “Meghrik” Foundation continued its focus on the beneficiaries of the previous projects, that is bee keepers in five frontier villages of Kirants, Nerkin Tsakhka- van, Acharkut, Ditavan, Berkaber in Tavush province (50 families), but at the same time step by step included Lusahovit, Lusadzor, Yenokavan, Khashtarak, Aknagbyur communities. After training 15 families in 3 communities got bee hives, with a condition to pass on one bee family to his vulnerable neighbour. Mr. Hamlet Tsovyan and representative of NCA on the Activities and Outcomes field visit In the focus of activities were ten borderline communities where training, consultations and inspections took place. 300 handouts and booklets on various aspects of bee keeping were distributed to the farmers. Individual and group consultancies for more than 500 bee keepers in the communities of Tavush were organized as well. Phone consultancies were very popular. After intensive trainings 15 most vulnerable families from three border communities got one bee hive each. Pro- phylactic activities and treatment were ensured. In 2009 honey sales started in Yerevan supermarkets (“Fresh” net). Nice small jars step by step found their way in the markets of a big city. In the result of project 450-500 bee keepers of Ijevan region got qualified consultancy and advice on various aspects of bee keeping, which promoted more professional attitude to production of quality honey, increase in the knowledge and skills of project participants, less epidemics, less bee illnesses. The other result is improvement of social situation as people increased their income (by 10% annually) through honey production and joint marketing. Outcomes are better social relations, atmosphere of cooperation, less migration for big cities or other countries.

Mr. Hamlet Tsovyan providing consultancy in the village of Kirants, Tavush province

NCA team monitoring the project Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART09 – ICDm8 Computer Literacy for Everyone and Development of Computer Centres May – December, 2009 ART09 – ICDm8/1 ART09 – ICDm8/2 Implementing partner: ART; AAC, Kotayk Diocese; AAC, Armavir Diocese; AAC Aragatsotn Diocese Funding Agency: Diakonishes Werk der EKD ART09 – ICDm8/3 Project Purpose In December, 2007 ART launched a new project named “Computer Literacy for Everyone and Sustainability of CCs” in the frames of Integrated Community Development Programme (ICD) the primary objective of which is to eliminate computer illiteracy in Armenia and achieve sustainable development of computer centres established by ART. Target Group The primary targets of the projects are the site staff of the centres, the secondary targets are community members - the youth, women, unemployed, students and educators, socially marginalized population from all social layers of the targeted communities. Activities and outcomes To address the overall objective of the project ART is working to improve: a) Education, b) Technologies, c) Communities and in such strategic directions as: a) education - teaching the basics of computer operations b) socio-economic betterment - through improved employment opportunities Classes of Computer Literacy in the Centres c) sustaining civil society groups - through better communication, information dissemination, exchanges by the Internet and computer use. Drawing from the fact that the integration of Information Computer Technology into daily life of our society and in education is a constantly evolving area the ART is working to enhance the professionalism of employees in CCs, beneficiaries, students and the community members as well and enlarged the scope in cooperating with the players in the field. It is very important that during the economic crisis in the country ART focuses on vulnerable groups teaching them computer basic skills that gives its positive and tangible results in the immediete future.

The following accomplishments have been implemented in the framework of the programme: project presentation and orientation meeting; provided Armenian language manuals “Handbook of Computer Literacy” and “Sustainability Toolkit”; a portfolio of application of CCs; educational CDs in cooperation with NCET and OSi; planning and reporting, monitoring and evaluation on quarterly basis; ToTs - “Teaching methods of Computer Basic Course and Community Mobi- lization”, “Web Design”, “Sustainabily Toolkit” with CAPS/USAID, competition “My Native Land” with Microsoft.

Despite of having a hard range of technical (hardware and software) problems at present, it’s worth to mention the successful performance of activities in all aspects in CCs. In general the number and quality of trainings are improved; number of trainees, users and volunteers involved in CC based activities is increased; methods of teaching are improved; developed the coordination of administrative, programme and organizational capacities of site staff, CC Web sites are in development process, general scope of outreach activities is being improved step by step. Much work is done, most of the CCs and site staff are set in right direction in coordination and implementation of the project activities. Voluntary work is fostered. PR activities are promoted in places, aiming to sustain the CCs, cooperate with schools, kinder-gardens, local authorities and different institutions. Upgrading technology in CCs will be conductive for project objective/s achievements, and ART together with Centres’ staff will exert all efforts to implement activities as planned and with an optimal outcome. The project will continue with communication of marketable skills to young people and career orientation, which for rural community residents is a given Events in the Computer Centres chance to work towards own future and sustainability. Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICDs2 Solar Heating System in Sevan Vazkenyan Seminary January 1 – June 30, 2009

Implementing partner: ART, UNDP/GEF, Vazkenyan Theological seminary Funding Agency: Global Ministries, Danish Armenian Mission Project Purpose The project aims at ensuring hot water for 90 students and the staff of Vazkenyan Theological seminary in Sevan through establishing solar heaters. For these 60 square metres of solar heating system was constructed. Target Group Project beneficiaries were 90 students and the staff that made use of hot water in the bath generated through the solar heating system. Activities and Outcomes Solar water heating system was installed with support structure, solar collectors, piping and insulation. The hot water accumulation tank was installed, insulated, and slip covered in the boiler house, also pumps, control panel, valves, heat Opening ceremony exchanger, etc were finalized by the end of May, and the system was tested and launched. Taking into account that Vazkenyan theological seminary territory has no real enclosure and guarding, and people from surrounding villages as well as cattle are regularly entering the territory, a simple net-shaped fence around the solar collectors was installed. This prevented accidental or on purpose damage of the solar collectors, piping, armature and insulation. The system ensured hot water for baths enough to attend needs of the students and staff.

Installed solar panels

His Holiness Karekin II and Dr. Karen Nazaryan getting acquainted with solar heating system Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICDs4 Spiritual Assistance July – December 2009

Implementing partner: ART, Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Funding Agency: DW Project Purpose The aim of the project was to strengthen the Christian values and Christian behavioural patterns in the Armenian society through deepening the knowledge of Personnel Assistants of Armenian Armed Forces in the Bible and history of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Target Group The project direct beneficiaries were 300 Personnel Assistants in Armed Forces in Republic of Armenia. The indirect target group was the Armed Forces personnel. Activities and Outcomes The diaconal and spiritual service in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia was established in 1997. A number of clergy served as chaplains, but their number is limited, and they have to attend needs in the Army parallel with their regular work in the parishes. Deacons after graduation the Theological University serve in the army for two years, organising spiritual and religious classes for military personnel. Still, the number of people in the Army who have knowledge about Christianity, services and history is too small. In the frames of the project lectures on the history of the Armenian Church and its feasts were brought in to 300 people. Trainees got knowledge on participation of the Armenian Church in national liberation movements (till our time) and current challenges. 10 000 copies of a small booklet with sayings about patriotism by famous personalities (Seneca, Fichte, Byron, Goethe and others) was published and presented to new recruits. There is a need to continue this project as the vast majority of the trainees first heard about the main ideas of Christianity during these trainings. There is a hope that sooner or later Christian values and living standards will become part of routine in the Armenian armed forces.

Booklet “Spiritual assistante to soldiers” Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09 – ICDs5 Spiritual Bells April 2009 – December 2009

Implementing partner: Armavir Diocese of AAC Funding Agency: Dikonisches Werk

Project Purpose and embroidery class. The pilot project was funded by Mr Reeder. To contribute to self-development and promotion of In July 2009 an exhibition was organized in UN office Christian education among schoolchildren of Aygeshat and dedicated to the Feast of the Holy Translators St. Sahak Mrgashat villages through out-of-school courses and cultur- and St. Mesrop where works on religious themes were dis- al-educational and Church activities. played. Armavir Diocese presented handworks of children Target Group of Gai and Karakert Centres, Aygeshat and Mrgashat study groups. 230 schoolchildren of Aygeshat and Mrgashat villages of Dispute club Armavir region This one gave a space for children to discuss and check knowledge on different topics and thus contribute to chil- Activities and outcomes dren’s capacity of making presentations, opinion expres- The project “Spiritual bells” is a multiplication of activi- sion, etc. Within the dispute club tests and quiz programmes ties started under “Support of the religious and other out- on the different themes, e.g. 10 Commandments were- or of-school education of the Diocese Armavir” supported by ganized by the Armavir Diocese with the participation of 60 Diakonisches Werk. This one started under the initiative of children from six villages. Singing group, computer courses Children with the benefactor Mr. Ray Reeder Armavir Diocese and with co-funding of a benefactor, Mr Ray Reeder. The project runs in six communities in Armavir More than 50 children partake in these study groups. region - Armavir, Lernagog, Myasnikyan, Argavand, Ayge- Children receive general introduction and basics of comput- shat and Mrgashat, four of which are supported at Diocesan er operation skills. Teachers use Computer Literacy Manual and benefactor’s means, and the rest two by ART through provided by ART (the Manual was developed with the sup- Diakonisches Werk. port of Diakonisches Werk). Christianity Class With the support of villages mayor offices of Aygeshat About 230 children from Aygeshat and Mrgashat got and Mrghashat pilgrimages were organized for about 150 knowledge about the church feasts, sacrament of the litur- children and their parents. gy, prayers, church services, etc. Books “Our life with God” Regular meetings were organized with parents in Ayge- donated by the World Vision Armenia were distributed to shat and Mrgashat, at which priest speaks to people and assist with the teaching. The classes improved children’s does Bible readings and reflections, covers such themes as knowledge of Christianity and contributed to value system baptism, sacraments of the Church, pilgrimages, etc. formation with the raising generation. Parents prioritize involvement of their children in Chris- Embroidery group tianity class and appreciated the project activities availing More than 40 children attended the group in both- vil children meaningful out-of-school education and leisure, lages. Children did table napkins, embroidered cards, etc. enriching outlook with Christian education and values. Ac- A pilot project to start preparation of cards (for Christmas, cording to the local clergy, communities started displaying New Year, Easter, birthday and other occasions) in combina- more interest in Church life, which is visible by increased tion of embroidery and computer graphics was carried out attendance on Sunday services and youth coming to serve by introducing to computer teachers possibilities of graphic and closer to Church. works so that children get the computer knowledge and apply graphics while designing and needling cards. One month basic course on Photoshop was carried out for 12 teachers (computer and embroidery) from the six villages Exhibition of children’s works who now pass on their knowledge to students of computer Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

ART 09-ICDs8 Long Awaited Home 2009 October – December 2009

Implementing partner: “Caravan-88” NGO Funding Agency: DW Project Purpose In the result of the war in Nagorno Karabagh about 360 000 Armenians left their homes and property in Azerbaijan and found refuge in Armenia, Russia, Europe and the USA. According to state data 311 000 refugees were finally settled in various regions of Armenia. The vast majority is still in desperate need for social protection. Many had to abruptly leave their homes and all possessions. Carrying upon their backs parents and children, some reached Gegharkunik province of Armenia. The overall goal of the project is improving living, social and psychological situation of the Hovhannisyans refugee family. The specific objective of the project is solving the problem of the family through house construction on their own land plot, as their house was burnt in 2006. Target Group Beneficiaries of the project were refugees, four members of the Hovhannisyans family: husband Vahagn Hovhannisyan, Long awaited home wife Shushanik Gagyan, son Shiraz suffering from rheumatism, born in 2000, and daughter Akavia (born in 2002), whose right eye was injured during the fire, she underwent eye operation for two times. Activities and Outcomes The Hovhannisyans lived in a wooden temporary shelter located on their own privatized land plot in the village of Tsa- patagh, Gegharkunik province. In June of 2006 their shelter and all property were burnt, and they were living temporarily in a stone manufacturing workshop. In 2007 the ART organised fundraising activities and the project started. Construction work continued till November of 2007 and stopped due to lack of funds. In 2008 and 2009 the ART and “Caravan-88” continued fund rising work and after many failures got the following support: the ART Board of Trustees donated 900 USD, Tufenkyan charitable foundation joined in with 300000 AMD. World Vision office donated 5 kg of white paint, local community mayor’s office managed to get half of the metal covering for the roof from Gegharkunik Governor’s office. Al these helped to have the following results in 2009: the walls for three room house, with a kitchen and a bathroom/lavatory were built and covered with a high roof (for turning it into two more rooms in the future). A cellar was there, too. Inner walls were covered with plaster as well. Shushanik was so happy with her new home that had planted an orchard in the yard, which she had not done for years. Newly planted orchard In 2009 windows were installed in order to start and quickly finish the inner improvement as soon as possible. In the end of the project implementation, which was the end of December 2009, the family had a comfortable home which will contribute to the improvement of their living, social and psychological state. Integrated Community Development programme (ICD)

Success stories

Gevorik Gevorik was 14 when he joined ART “Honey production as a way to development” project in 2005, a project implemented by the ART in border communities of Tavush province. His family was one of the most vulnerable in Nerkin Tsakhkavan community: a ruined house because of bombings from Azerbaijan side, four underage children, a mother and a grandmother. Gevorik’s father had left for Russia to make money to build a new house, the old was bombed by Azeri Army, and is still in far away Omsk. Gevorik was too small to be included into the project but not only his multiple requests, but also active participation in trainings made possible to do that, and he became one of the energetic members of the project beneficiaries’ team. He got one bee hive in 2005 and by the end of 2009 counted 30 hives with healthy bee families. Now Mr. Gevorg Mehrabyan, whom we knew as Gevorik, lives in a new house for which he had paid partially; the rest was covered by the local community. He is the bread winner of the family thanks to good harvest of honey and even paid consultancy to other bee keepers in the community and outside. He pays for his college, as well as for studies of his two sisters.

My Native Land (competition among CCs) On 16 March, 2009 World Council of Churches Armenia Inter-Church Charitable Round Table Foundation (ART) and Microsoft Armenia implemented a project named “My Native Land” in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Students and the youth were brought together from the regions of Armenia, trained in the ART established computer centres. They introduced Power Point presentations on the theme performing the peculiarities, historical-cultural values, the fauna, the traditions, legends and mode of life in their regions. Microsoft granted 5 computer centres with special gifts. “Today, the main long-term aim of education is to train learners for well- informed and integrated society, preparing them for living and functioning in contemporary life phase. The education of Computer Science can be compared with the Literacy of the society in the beginning of 20th century. Our organization works in the regions of Armenia mainly in re- mote and boarder villages as the children in these districts have less opportunities than those in Yerevan. It’s important to mention the role of Microsoft, Armenia in participating in such events and granting the students is huge as encourages the participants to be more active and appreciate the role of Information Technologies in our lives. ” said Dr. Karen Nazaryan. “All the participants are the trainees of the computer centres involved in a project called “Computer Literacy for Eve- ryone and Sustainable Development of Computer Centres”. We aim to teach computer literacy in Armenia and to achieve sustainable development of computer centres established by ART. The students worked hard while working on presentations.They seem to be very excited taking part in such event. Moreover, participating in such events and projects the youth develop a number of vital skills such as: time management, conflict resolution, decision making, leadership, teamwork, “My native land” competition among CCs mutual assistance and understanding. Also the ART introduced the work done in computer centres to the local organizations such as National Centre for Edu- cational Technologies, the Ministry of Economy, CAPS (USAID), Armentel and others. Capacity Building

The overall objective of this programme is to promote Therefore ART staff members are having an active in- development of civil society by increased capacity building, volvement in delivering both consultancy and training to systematic learning and distribution of information in dif- the partners on regular basis. ART partners participate in ferent fields for Churches, NGOs and their networks. workshops on Social Diakonia, Fundraising Plan Devel- ART has developed a number of capacity building ac- opment, Do No Harm, HIV/AIDS, Trafficking of Human tivities and services for the churches and partner NGOs, has Being, Theological and Ethical Aspects of HIV/AIDS and been working closely with the partners to understand exact- Trafficking of Human Being, Basics of Demography, Sex- ly what they need, the approach of ART focuses on a respect ual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Gender-Based for local knowledge, participation, reflection, and follow up. Violence, Emergency Aid Preparedness, European Neigh- ART is also institutionalizing capacity building in order borhood Policy and Programming. ART also organized a to become a knowledge-base for its partners and have pro- number of exchange visits for clergy to conferences and fessional human resources and space to systematically de- site visits regarding HIV/AIDS. liver capacity building services. Capacity Building

ART 09-CB1 Capacity Building Program July 2007 – June 2010

Implementing partner: ART Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project purpose The overall objective of the ART with regard to capacity building and information dissemination is to promote development of civil society by increased capacity building, systematic learning and distribution of information in the different fields for Churches, NGOs and their networks. Target Group ART partner organizations and churches. Activities and Outcomes ART has developed a number of capacity building activities and services for the churches and partner NGOs, has been working closely with the partners to understand exactly what they need. ART partners participated in workshops on Social Diakonia, Fundraising Plan Development, Do No Harm, HIV/AIDS, Trafficking of Human Being, Theological and ethical aspects of HIV/AIDS and Trafficking of Human Being, Basics of Demography, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, European Neighborhood Policy and Programming. ART also organized a number of exchange visits for clergy to conferences and site visits regarding HIV/AIDS. ART is in the process of designing a flexible training platform, to deliver tailored sessions to its church partners during the various stages of their organizations development, and to deliver paid and consultancy services to the Civil Society Or- ganizations both in Armenia and other CIS countries. Presently ART is providing training courses and daily consultancy to its partners to strengthen the managerial and organizational capacity required to effectively and efficiently operate.

Fundraising workshop Capacity Building

ART 09-CB 2 Capacity Building of Priests on ICPD Issues May 2009 – January 2010

Implementing partner: ART Funding Agency: UNFPA Project Purpose The project aims at increasing the awareness of Armenian priests around issues of ICPD, promoting involvement in combating GBV, and influencing attitudes and behaviour of youth regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as supporting the increased involvement of faith-based organizations in view of their role around ICPD related areas. Target Group 25 clergy of Armenian Churches. Activities and outcomes Clergy of the Armenian Apostolic and Catholic Churches encourage our society to incorporate universally recognized rights which are closely related to the Christian values into their reality via discussions on how gender issues can contribute to the well being of women, men and their families. Taking into consideration the above mentioned, the project enabled the priests to conduct advocacy against GBV and address the root causes of the violence against women and girls, gender inequality and discrimination. Considering that demographic situation and trends in Armenia are rather alarming and urgent actions are necessary to be undertaken, the integral linkages between population and development, capacity build- Training on Healthy Lifestyle for schoolchildren ing seminar of priests on basic population studies and key demographic postulates has been conducted in the framework of the project to increase their knowledge in the mentioned field. In view of the current trends in maternal mortality, spread of STIs and HIV/AIDS, as well as the urgent need of informing youth in Armenia about sexual and reproductive health and rights, clergy from all the Dioceses of Armenian Apostolic Church and representatives from Armenian Catholic Church participated in a workshop on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. Awareness raising activities have been held for the youth on sexual and reproductive health and rights in the Church Youth Unions in Araratyan and Shirak Dio- ceses by trained priests and master trainer.

Seminar on demographic situation and trends for clergy Capacity Building

Establishment of a Day Centre for People Living with HIV ART 09 ICD3 March 2009 – March 2011 Prevention and Pastoral Care of Trafficking Victims Implementing partner: ART Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project Purpose The project aims at reducing social isolation and sustaining to the social betterment of People Living with HIV in Yere- van and neighbouring towns via provision of spiritual, psychological, social support and to promote Church involvement in pastoral care, counselling and prevention of Trafficking in Armenia. Target Group 100 families living with HIV in Yerevan and neighbouring regions; victims of trafficking Activities and outcomes The project is being implemented in partnership with Araratyan Pontifical Diocese of AAC and “Real World, Real Peo¬ple” NGO. ART closely collaborates with both organizations, and intensively assists in the overall establishment of the centre and coordination of the joint activities to ensure maximum efficiency of the project. The project provides the following services to the beneficiaries: Pastoral Care and Support, including individual con¬sultations, conducting Bible study groups for People Living with HIV, conducting visits to the houses of the beneficiaries not able to attend the centre; individual peer counselling, including provision of peer counselling to PLHIV and follow-up treatment adherence; self-help groups; social assistance, including provision of meal packages and outreach work; club activities, including groups for children, self-help groups, social events: movie watching, discussions on mutu- ally impor¬tant topics, celebration of holidays, competitions of various games. In the framework of the project, a number of capacity building events have been organized for priests, such as seminars on social reintegration of the victims of human trafficking for clergy, drug use, and rehabilitation of IDUs, Gender, HIV/ AIDS and Trafficking for ART partner NGOs, rehabilitation and social reintegration of victims, such as coordination of the activities of clergy in the shelter and communities; round tables on the collaboration of clergy with international and local NGOs, UN agencies. Capacity Building

ART 09 ICD3/1 PLHIV Day Centre July 2009 – March 2011

Implementing partner: “Real World, Real People” NGO Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project Purpose The project aims at sustaining to the betterment and reduce social isolation of people living with HIV. Target Group 100 PLHIV families from Yerevan and the neighbouring regions, beneficiaries from 4 regions of Armenia Activities and outcomes Provision of social, psychological assistance to 100 PLHIV families residing in Yerevan and the neighbouring regions. Organization of self-help groups for PLHIV, their friends and relatives. Providing peer-counseling and outreach services in Yerevan and four regions of Armenia: Shirak, Lori, Aragatsotn and Gegharkunik. Organization of club activities and social gathering for the PLHIV beneficiaries of the centre, conducting regular monitoring and reporting of the Day Centre activities. Meal kits are being provided regularly to the beneficiaries of the centre based on fixed criteria. More than 15 children and adult beneficiaries have been baptized by the clergy involved in the Day Centre activities. A number of pilgrimages have been organized all over Armenia with involvement of more than 120 beneficiaries to introduce to the Christian heritage of Armenian Apostolic church and hold discussions related to various spiritual topics of interest.

Beneficiary from Aragatsotn Province in the framework of HIV project

Baptizing children living with HIV Capacity Building

ART 09 ICD3/2 HIV Prevention and Pastoral Care November 2009- February 2010

Implementing partner: “Aragats” Benevolent NGO Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project purpose The project aims at preventing the spread of HIV by raising awareness of target group on HIV/AIDS, reducing stigma and discrimination by Christian education, and providing pastoral care and assistance to the people living with HIV in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. Target Group Students of higher education institutions and universities, students of secondary schools and colleges, population of the 13 rural and 2 urban communities with prevailing migrant population, three divisions of army, ten people living with HIV. Activities and Outcomes Implementation of awareness raising activities for NGOs, clergies, students and lecturers of secondary and higher education institutions, organization of poster competitions on HIV-related issues among school-children, organization of peer-learning courses by the team of the well-trained twenty schoolchildren, organization of essay competitions on HIV-related issues, provision of pastoral and social assistance to people living with HIV, organization of bible-study groups for people living with HIV

Training on Healthy Lifestyle Capacity Building

ART 09 ICD3/3 HIV-related Awareness Raising and Pastoral Counselling in Shirak Region November 2009- February 2010

Implementing partner: Shirak Diocese, AAC Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project purpose The project aims at disseminating spiritual values among people living with HIV, 60 in total residing in Shirak Region and awareness raising of youth on HIV. Target Group 66 people living with HIV, 140 students of 3 universities and colleges of Gyumri town. Activities and Outcomes Conducting weekly Bible Study groups for people living with HIV and their children, providing pastoral counselling and care, spiritual literature, provision of social assistance to the people living with HIV giving priority to those identified by the PLHIV group, providing of medication, covering the fees for medical check-up and treatment for HIV related diseases. Implementation of awareness raising campaigns for youth of Shirak Region to present basics of HIV transmission, the harm caused by stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV, possibilities of treatment for people living with HIV. The pastoral activities held with PLHIV led to raising the spiritual knowledge and values among the target group, their inclusion in church community, as a result of which a number of PLHIV baptized their children and started to attend the school, on regularly basis. Capacity Building

ART 09 ICD3/4 Youth Against HIV/AIDS November 2009- February 2010

Implementing partner: Araratyan Pontifical Diocese, AAC Funding Agency: Diakonisches Werk Project purpose The project aims at raising awareness of youth on HIV/AIDS, reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS via effective preventive activities, reducing stigma/discrimination towards PLHIV via Christian education, and informing youth and teachers on HIV/AIDS-related issues. Target Group 500 members of the 14 Christian youth unions, 300 students of 12 secondary schools, 20 clergy of Araratyan Pontifical Diocese, 25 teachers of the history of the history of Armenian Church, 70 students of Vazgenyan Theological Seminary, 200 students of the Theological Department of the Yerevan State University, 200 students of the State Pedagogical University, 120 male and female prisoners of 3 prisons, PLHIV members of St. Trinity Church community. Activities and Outcomes Implementation of awareness raising events with the involvement of youth from various higher education institutions jointly with a professional PLHIV trainer from “Real World, Real People” NGO. The seminars are highly interactive and include both theoretical knowledge regarding HIV and its transmission, discussions, role plays and watching documentary movies related to the life of PLHIV and the problems they face, the most acute from which is the stigma and discrimination faced by the members of their communities and families. Capacity Building

Strengthening the Involvement of CSOs of Eastern Europe & South Caucasus ART 09-ICDm3 January 2009 – December 2009 in ENP and EP Policy Implementation Implementing partner: ART Funding Agency: ICCO Project Purpose The project aims at awareness-raising and promoting dialogue among church-related and secular NGOs, local govern- ment and EU institutions specifically in the context of Mid-Term Evaluation of the European Commission (EC) assistance, and increasing the knowledge of 40 church- related and secular NGOs on the European Neighborhood Policy and Partnership Instruments and monitoring skills of the EC assistance, facilitating active involvement of CSOs in midterm review of the ENPI National Indicative Programme (NIP) and related financial aid, promoting CSO’s recommendations towards the national governments, EC country delegations and other EU institutions. Target Group 40 civil society organizations in Armenia Activities and outcomes ART facilitated two consultations with around 30 CSOs on national level, which aimed at building the capacities of CSOs in the concept and essence of the European neighbourhood policy. A set of recommendations has been formulated by the working groups of the consultation for the improvement and elaboration of mechanisms for achieving the priorities of the National Indicative Program (NIP) 2011-2013. Consultations were held on the neighbourhood policy and the ENPI related programming documents created within the framework of the policy. A coalition of CSOs was formed on the national level in order to make the consultation and further follow-up a continuous process. The member CSOs were chosen in accordance with the priority areas defined in the ENPI National Indicative Programs (NIP) of Armenia, and included church-related, secular NGOs, Youth Organizations and Community-Based Organizations to promote dialogue around the neighbourhood policy/neighbourhood and partnership instrument and through the overall increased awareness of civil society. Following the elaboration of the recommendations which were provided to all the key state and EU institutions in the country, a number of follow-up activities have been launched by EC delegation in Armenia and ART to regularly update the members of the coalition on the development regarding their recommendations and ENPI in general.

Workshop on ENPI Mid-Term review Capacity Building

ART09 – ICDs1 Organizational Capacity Self Assessment March – June, 2009

Implementing partner: ART Funding Agency: ACT International Project Purpose Organizational capacity assessment was initiated within the framework of developing collaboration with the ACT Ca- pacity Development Initiative (CDI), the goal of which is to enhance the ability of ACT members and ACT Forums in order to mitigate the effects of, and respond to, emergencies. Target group The primary target group is the ART staff; secondary target group consists of the ART local and international partners, board of trustees, and other stakeholders. The working group, consisted of 3 ART staff and the Executive Director, a representative from ART Board of Trustees and two ART partners. Activities and outcomes ART is member of ACT International and a founding participant of ACT Development. From the very launch of the discussion around ACT Development ART actively participated in the process of preparatory work and started the combina- tion of relief and development work to effect in economical justice and eradication of the poverty in our country. Having experience in emergency work and project implementation the ART proposed Organizational Capacity Assess- ment (OCA) with the aim to help strengthening and increasing the organizational effectiveness of ART in disaster preparedness and response, as well as build up the ART capacity to act productively towards its goals. In this regard the OCA covered the organization’s external relations and image, its performance in achieving its objectives, as well as its internal functioning and resources, role and strategy. The organization’s overall strengths, weaknesses and development needs were identified and analyzed through this process. ART organized and carried out the process of self-assessment based on the terms and tools described in the “Guide for organizational capacity assessments for ACT International members and Forum Undertaking.” For this ART invited an external facilitator from Civic Development and Partnership Foundation who coordinated the working group activities and meetings throughout the whole process. A brief situational analysis was conducted by the Assessment Team (AT) for examining key aspects of the political, economic, social, technological and cultural environment of the organization. Within the frames of the project a launch meeting, working meetings and workshops, interviews were organized involv- ing ART staff and partners. A comprehensive three-year Actual Plan of activities was developed to address the ART capacity building and foresees the elaboration of a project for strengthening of ART capacities that will enable ART to better fulfil its mission and obliga- tions as ACT member.

Organizational Capacity Self Assessment workshop with the involvement of ART staff, partners and board members Capacity Building

ART 09 - ICDs6 Intensive English Course for Clergy of the Mother See May 2009 – August 2009

Implementing partner: Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Funding Agency: EED Project Purpose To assist clergy and deacons improve working knowledge of English language for practical and professional use. Target Group About 40 deacons and clergy employed in various administrative departments of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Activities and results As the Armenian Apostolic Church is increasing being presented at ecumenical forums and organizations, clergy need to have a working grasp of the English language to be able to effectively partake and articulate Church concepts and ideas on the international level. Furthermore, clergy called to serve outside of Armenia need to know English for own sake and as a base for the learning of other languages. In Gevorkyan Seminary at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin an eleven-week intensive English course was organized and delivered by a group of highly qualified trainers from the American University of Armenia. The course was offered at the seminary for priests and deacons, who were in the early years of their ministry. 41 students have committed to the classes. Besides their in-class time, students were required to listen to conversational CD’s, complete workbook assign- ments, group activities, watch movies and actively engaged in group discussions. 41 students that had been enrolled for the courses at the beginning finished the course and were empowered to pass the TOEFL exam successfully and got certificates.

At the lesson Capacity Building

Success stories

Pastoral assistance to a 22 y.o. young woman A young woman, who suddenly learned about her HIV status, had serious psychological disorder and decided to approach one of the priests of ART network in Yerevan. The woman had already been provided psychological support both in AIDS National Prevention Centre and “Real World, Real People” NGO, however her situation did not change. The priest, who was well informed about all the stages of psychological difficulties faced by people living with HIV, especially in the early stages after identifying HIV status, started to work intensively with the woman, providing both pastoral and psychological counseling and assistance. He also involved her in the church life and invited to attend bible study groups. The communications and activities among the members of the church community improved the state of the woman, who presently attends the bible study groups held weekly for people living with HIV in the framework of ART HIV project, and is keeping daily contacts with the priest.

*** In the framework of ART HIV/AIDS program, a mother-headed family with 3 children, surviving in extreme poverty in one of isolated villages in Armenia, facing constant stigma and discrimination from the villagers due to HIV and TB status, joined the program in March, 2009. After becoming ART beneficiary, the family received regular social assistance in the form of monthly meal packages, clothes for children, school-books and stationary, and considerably improved the housing conditions due to the efforts of the local clergy and the project’s social worker who worked with the family on regular basis to assist them in social betterment and reduction of stigma and their social isolation. In the late 2009, the elder son of the family was to finish the secondary school, and there was no chance for him to continue education despite the good progress he had achieved in school, and as a result of clergy’s daily visits, the children had enriched their knowledge regarding Christianity and Armenian Apostolic church and were baptized, the family asked the clergy to assist the elder son to be admitted to a theological seminary. Finally, due to the efforts of the clergy, who educated the boy to be able to pass the exams and assisted with all the documentation procedure, the boy was admitted to the Theo- logical Seminary of Armenian Apostolic Church in Jerusalem with excellent grades.

Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme

ART and a counterpart NGO in Azerbaijan, Internews which gave valuable experience and insight. After docu- Azerbaijan work to advocate for regional peace and recon- mentary films’ on life of people in bordering villages and ciliation at public level in both counties. grassroots’ discussions over the films and reconciliation The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno- topic, it became clear that this type of work at grassroots Karabakh remains deadlocked since 1994, at an enormous level is of utmost importance and has to continue. The socio-economic cost to both Azerbaijani and Armenian so- involvement of religion in the process of peace and rec- cieties. As a political settlement has yet to materialize, the onciliation was of importance and added special signifi- peoples of both countries suffer profound consequences cance to the initiative, with bringing into values of life, of war. To promote regional peace-building at the grass- love, hope, etc., shared by people regardless of national roots level, an initiative group (IG) from Azerbaijan and identify and religion. Based on experiences of pilot phase, Armenia represented by Internews Azerbaijan, Ganja Me- the IG designed a three-year programme, which contin- dia Centre, “Shoghakat” TV studio and ART decided to ues documentary film making over themes that are of in- launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign and terest and of uniting nature for people in both countries, create channels of public discussions over reconciliation in grassroots’ discussions with the involvement of youth Azerbaijan and Armenia. The IG started with a pilot phase, and civil society groups in both countries, IG meetings and PR of the programme. Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme

ART 08 – PB2 Promoting Dialogue for Regional Reconciliation January 2008 - March 2011 ART 09 – PB1 Implementing partner: “Internews Azerbaijan” and Armenia Round Table Funding Agency: EPER, ICCO Project Purpose The overall objective of the programme is to promote a process of reconciliation at the public level in Azerbaijan and Armenia by encouraging more receptive ideas for peaceful conflict resolution and peace-building in both countries. Specific objectives are breaking negative stereotypes, changing attitude and building up between two nations. Target Group Direct – representatives of non-governmental, grassroots, international organiza¬tions; students, youth centres, journalists, social service centres, residents of bordering vil¬lages in Azerbaijan and Armenia Indirect – societies of both countries Activities and outcomes Film Production: “Bitterness of war” by “Internews Azerbaijan” (Azerbaijan) and “Prisoners of war” by “Shoghakat” TV studio (Arme- Public discussions nia) documentaries were filmed through December 2008-February 2009. The films exemplify that people treated compas- sionate and caring for prisoners and hostages from the “other” side, and convey the idea that there are values shared by people regardless of nationality and creed. Another documentary, “Experts on peaceful resolution of the conflict” was made through October – November 2009. It is the first joint Azerbaijani-Armenian documentary, which is in a form of interviews and presents ideas and opinions on peaceful conflict settlement raised by people who are famous and are engaged in peace building activities in home countries. Those speaking in the film convey to the auditorium the idea that there is no alternative to peace and approach it in the light of advantages and opportunities that peaceful settlement of the conflict and its resolution can give to people and the region in one piece. Excerpts of “Experts on peaceful resolution of the conflict” is uploaded on YouTube. (http://www. youtube.com/peacecaucasus). Grassroots Discussions Open public discussions continued in both countries and followed an agreed upon format. More than 30 discussions within the reporting period were conducted with a total of about 700 people, of which about 35% were repeated participants, about 50% of participants opined that this type of programme activities are in entirely or in general contributory to peace building. In average, discussions lasted for about 1.5-2 hours. Documentaries produced within the reporting period and previously were shown at the discussions. Films were also distributed to discussion participants or interested organizations, provided that they are used with knowledge of the programme implementing organizations. Meetings in Tbilisi Meetings of the working groups from Azerbaijan and Armenia continued and a regular one took place in September 2009 in Tbilisi, Georgia. Participants were from Internews Azaerbaijan, “Shoghakat” TV studio, EPER-HEKS Coordination Office South Caucasus and Armenia Round Table. Representatives of HEKS/EPER and ICCO, and visiting groups as accompanied by the programme funding partners visited ART and discussed the programme idea and implementation related. For the remaining programme period the implementing partners will continue outreach and attitude change activities, with a more focus on a core group distilled from within the participants to public discussions in both countries. These groups will be made of people (preliminary 10-15 per country) inspired by reconciliation idea and enthusiastic to partake on cross-border initiatives. The groups will be have an opportunity for face-to-face meetings in a third party country, capacity building and a small scale joint project implementation, which will contribute to sense of ownership, strengthen inter- group relations through practical experience and be contributory for trust building and attitude change. Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme

Promoting Dialogue for Regional Reconciliation. Meetings on Regional Peace and Reconciliation for ART 09 – PBs1 May 2009 – September 2009 Area Development Programme Staff Implementing partner: Armenia Round Table, “World Vision International” Armenian Division Funding Agency: “World Vision International” Project Purpose “World Vision International” Armenian Division and Armenia Round Table collaboratively carried out facilitated discussions within the frames of “Promoting Dialogue for Regional Reconciliation” programme with the Area Development Programme (ADP) staff and communities. Activities and outcomes Main observations, suggestions and remarks by discussion participants noted down below as the follows: • The participants were reflective and considerate of the consequences of the war for both sides, recognizing that people of both nations victimized and suffered. Personal stories of film features raised feeling of compassions and notion sharing that pain knows no border and nationality. • Participants opined on the initiative as one driven by the civil society and not pursuing political solutions, rather aiming to strengthen components that are uniting in nature for both nations and reducing the effects of the dividing ones. • According to participants, regional peace and reconciliation projects carried out in a symmetrical way are useful as they reaffirm that there is no alternative to peace and encourage reconciliation idea and approach. There was evident interest in the topic from the side of those present at the discussions. The discussions in general were contributory to the project aim achievement. As found by moderators and participants, the discussions raise awareness and understanding of attitudes of people towards conflict and peace. Excluding the resume of the war, the majority of participants believed in peaceful resolution of Nagorno Karabakh conflict and prioritized peace building and reconciliation initiatives. The reconciliation initiative was prioritized and recommended to be continued with public discussions which are believed to be promoting peace building and laying ground for reconciliation. Copies the documentaries were provided to “World Vision International” Armenian Division for further dissemination and presentation upon coordination and agreement with the Armenia Round Table. Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme

Success stories

The Association of Youth Organizations of World Armenian Congress, a member of which I am, organized a seminar- meeting entitled “The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict” with one of the famous political scientists. As expected by the organizers, the seminar turned into rather heated debates, during which various opinions were heard. For many days I was under the impressions of the meeting, thoughts and ideas were constantly coming into my head. Es- pecially one question was whirling in my head and torturing all the time – how could I help my people? A few days later from the Diocese of Armavir I was invited to watch a documentary, made within a programme that was being implemented by Armenia Round Table, a documentary that would help me in future to find answers to the questions that were fixed in my mind all the time. The films we watched were about the people living in villages close to Armenian-Azerbaijani border. The villagers were narrating about good and friendly relations that Armenians and Azerbaijani had before the war began. The fact that they still remembered each others’ names was very impressive. As far as I noticed, the heroes of the films of both nations were quite optimistic for a chance to come for better times, and there was still hope in their voices, a hope that when those better times come, they will visit each other villages and once again live in peace, that they missed so much.... Yes, they miss it... they are tired of calling each other “enemies”, while just few years ago they called each other “brothers”. The thoughts and ideas do not torture any more... Now I am sure I will have an opportunity to realize them one day and have my small contribution into the benefit of my people and peace, as I engaged into a group of young people that will work on reconciliation and dialogue with a counterpart group from Azerbaijan within the frames of Armenia Round Table programme. What else do we have to share in this world with each other but for peace?! I am very thankful for availing us – youth in search – a chance to have a say in peace process and impact for the general benefit. We can do that... We are strong, when we are together and united.

Anna Baberyan

Film watching

Public discussions Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme

Success stories

I have been always interested about what our neighbors out there, beyond the eastern border of Armenia, think of us. To be honest, I have thought that they cannot stand us, only because I followed the official newsletter from Azerbaijani side.

After watching the first film, I felt a great desire to meet, talk to my Azerbaijani peers, to communicate with them personally and just to listen to their views the way they are without journalists’ records. Besides politicians and the military, on both sides of the border there are so-called ordinary citizens living. I wanted to get to know them. One f the films I watched shows that people living in bordering villages have similar problems, especially when they experience bitter consequences of the conflict and live in a fear of being shot by the sharpshooters in these “bad peace” conditions. I can not understand why there should be any confrontation in peace times. Enemies and heroes are on the battlefield, not at peace times! It is not heroism to fire peaceful and unarmed people and keep farmers in fear, even if the conflict has not finished officially.

Before watching the film, I was sure that it was only from Azerbaijani positions that firing occurred from time to time, and that on the “other” side, across the border, without knowing me personally, without understanding, they consider me to be an enemy. I do not want to have enemies at peace. The films showed that in Azerbaijan there are also people that share the same opinion. This is exactly why I wish to communicate with them.

Discussion with NGOs There is an opinion that the friendship does not last forever, so does hostility. We should just talk to the “other”. Who knows, maybe we will find some connectors. Feeling hostility is also some kind of disease, complicated and poisonous, and, if accumulates, can be very harmful for the body itself. I do not want my children to live in conditions of a deadlocked conflict and continuous confrontations, in a constant fear of war resumption, with hostility that poisons from inside. After watching the films and having met young people from Azerbaijan, I think that my Azerbaijani peers share the same opinion.

Gevorg Avchyan Other Projects Other Projects

ART 03-A11 Green Theology November 1- December 31, 2009 ImplementingPeace partner: Building ART, Vazkenyan and TheologicalReconciliation seminary in ProgrammeSevan Funding Agency: Global Ministries Project Purpose The goal of the project is awareness rising about man-nature relations, as well as on the principles of Christian Church about current ethical, environmental, economical and other challenges, thus developing a spiritual attitude towards nature and life phenomena. The objective of the project is publication of “Vazkenyan Seminary” periodical. Target Group The target group of the project were students, scientists, and public at large and more than 1000 readers. Activities and Outcomes In 2009 one issue (300 copies) of “Vazkenyan Seminary” quarterly was published covering various aspects of nature protection, ecology, current ethical challenges in the Armenian society. Cultural, scientific, historical issues were also tackled. Other Projects

ART 09 – ICDs3, April 2009 - June 2009, Completion of Family Library ART 09 – ICDs7 November 2009 – January 2010 ImplementingPeace partner: Building Association and of Judges Reconciliation of RoA Funding Programme Agency: Diakonisches Werk, EED Project Purpose The overall idea of “family library” series of publications is to present to a wider public a comprehensive introduction (e.g. in format of questions-answers) and interpretation of laws and regulations on such topics, as rights (including those of children’s and women’s), social protection, education, religion, taxes, court applications and procedures, etc. The project is an initiative of a group of judges who aim to help people with their rights protection through publications and counseling work. Target group Citizens of Armenia, civil society organization, public organization engages in legal counseling and rights protection, social and educational institutes. Activities and outcomes “Court and Justice,” “Church, State and Society,” “Social Rights” and “Children’s Rights” were produced and published in 2009. Each publication was made in 1000 copies and widely circulated through ART and Association throughout Arme- nia to educational institutes, public and non-governmental organizations, courts, social centres, libraries, presentations and introductions of the publications held at different events by ART and Association of Judges. The publications are also posted on ART and Associations of Judges web pages. Feedback on the publications was received by ART and Association from various institutions, e.g. rural schools, ministry of Social Affairs, department of police, passport and visa issues, etc. Other Projects

Annual Meeting of European Regional Partnership Group of the World Council of Churches Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme The members of the European Regional Partnership Group (ERPG), of the World Council of Churches were hold- ing their annual meeting with regional partners in Yerevan, from October 12 to 15. The group comprised ecumenical agencies and Round Tables from Western and Eastern Eu- rope. This was the 2nd time the group has held their meetings in Armenia. During these meetings, the members discussed their past experiences and future prospects in the areas of civil, diaconal and long-term projects. Rev. Dr. Colin Williams, General Secretary of the Confer- ence of European Churches; Rev. Dr. Daniel Buda, program executive for the Coordination of Church and Ecumenical Relations, World Council of Churches; and Dr. Karen Nazar- yan, Director of Armenia Round Table Foundation, touched upon the activities of ERPG and the successful cooperation of ERPG and the Round Tables. This year the topics of the conference referred to a series of important issues facing Eastern Europe - poverty, migration, HIV/AIDS, and human trafficking as well as the role of Round Table Foundations in the changing world. Financial Data

Audit Report on Financial Statements Peace Building and Reconciliation Programme