WATERTOWN, MA‹The Armenian Youth Federation ‹ Youth Organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Eastern USA (AYF-YOARF) kicked off a comprehensive campaign to reach out to Armenian youth in Javakhk, announcing the formation of the "Javakhk Youth Initiative" during the 69th annual AYF Olympics held in Philadelphia, PA last weekend.

During a reception for AYF members held Saturday evening, AYF-Eastern USA Central Executive members laid out the overall goals of the project, and unveiled plans to purchase and renovate a youth center in Akhalkalak, a principle Armenian populated city in Javakhk. The corner building, located across from City Hall, includes a large hall and many rooms, and will serve as the headquarters for youth in the region.

"The opportunity to assist in purchasing a social and educational center to serve the needs of fellow youth in Javakhk is exciting," said AYF Eastern US Central Executive member Sarine Gregorian. "Just as we rely on our Armenian Centers, Churches and Camps to bring Diaspora Armenian youth closer together, we hope that this center will serve as a cultural, social and athletic meeting place for Javakhk youth. Through this effort, we look forward to establishing a closer relationship with our peers in the region."

The region of Javakhk is a predominantly Armenian region in southern Georgia. Three of the main districts in the region are Ninozminta, which includes some 32 surrounding villages; Akhalkalaki which includes about 63 surrounding villages; and Akhaltsekha, with 47 surrounding villages.

Fundraising efforts for the youth center began during AYF Olympics weekend and will continue throughout the region at various local AYF functions. Proceeds will be sent to Javakhk via the ARS Javakhk Fund. For more information or to make a donation, contact the AYF Central Executive via e-mail at ce@ayf.org. Tax deductible donations can be sent directly to the AYF office at 80 Bigelow Avenue, Watertown, MA 02472 or by calling 617-923-1933. Please make checks payable to the ARS Javakhk Fund.