Spring Commences with Successful Events for ARS Zabelle Chapter in Chicago

Blood Drive at Shahnasarian Hall on April 25

Ungerouhis A.Kilian & A.Sarafian give N.Krikorian the Oath

Celebrating 25 years of ARS membership

CHICAGO, IL—The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Chicago Zabelle chapter wrapped up the spring season by fostering several local projects including a luncheon, a blood drive, a walkathon, and a celebration of 94 years of service.

On April 4, ARS members with culinary talent prepared a delicious meal for the community following church services. Family and friends dined on such foods as fish, boureg, vospov kufteh, tabuleh, and hummus of the all time favorite Armenian foods, followed by baklava and other homemade pastries for dessert. “The Palm Sunday luncheon is a way for our organization to thank the community for supporting ARS. Without the support of the community, we would not be able to support our mission,” said Zabelle chapter chairperson Silva Panossian. One such example of overwhelming support by the community was during the blood drive.

Every year, the ARS in Chicago hosts a Genocide memorial blood drive commemorating those who were lost in the Genocide. This year, the blood drive took place on April 25 at the Shahnasarian Hall. Medical staff from the American Red Cross worked in conjunction with the chapter to collect blood from qualifying donors. “We were pleased to find friends and supporters of the ARS and the Armenian Cause come through for this blood drive. The one thing that we all have in common is the desire to thrive and make the world a better place, not just for Armenians, but for everyone in the areas in which we live. The blood drive is a symbolic event, allowing Armenians to commemorate the atrocities of 1915, while hopefully improving the quality of life for those in need in our community,” said chapter member Silva Bedian.

Then on May 1, the chapter participated in a world-wide celebration of the 94th anniversary of the founding of the ARS by hosting a party with singer Hovaness Shahbazyan. The band rocked Hudaverdian Hall until two in the morning. During the celebration ARS members Arpy Killian and Anahid Sarrafian congratulated those members with 25 years of membership. The ARS was also proud to induct new member Nairi Krikorian that evening and in the future giving Rene Devedjian her oath.

To wrap up its spring season activities, the Zabelle chapter laced up their walking shoes for the May 8 walkathon which took place in Gallery Park in Glenview, IL. The purpose of the walkathon was to raise funds for the organization and to make the city of Glenview aware of the group and its activities. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the Zadik orphanage in Armenia.