Glendale, California: The 2015 annual Orran Journey of Hope Gala was a resounding success with 250 honorable guests. Among the attendees were founders of Orran Armine and Raffi K. Hovannisian, major patron Krikor Krikorian from the United Kingdom, Supervisor Congressman Adam Schiff and renowned artist Serj Tankian and his family. The Primate of the Western Diocese, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian’s blessing words for the children and Rev. Vasgen Atmajian’s blessing of the table were followed by evening emcee Dr. Steven Kamajian who touched the hearts of the guests with his eloquent presentation of Orran's dedicated mission of transforming the lives of children and elderly alike. He then introduced renowned lawyer Mark Geragos who inspired the audience with his thoughtful remarks and called on the guests to take Orran to heart and personally donated on behalf of his two grandchildren.
Krikor Krikorian, major benefactor and financial advisor to Orran’s Board of Directors gave a comprehensive financial accounting of Orran which provides assistance to 200 children and 100 elderly in need in its centers of Yerevan and Vanadzor. In his presentation, Mr. Kirkorian underscored the low administrative cost of 13%, compared to the 30% and higher averages of other nonprofits.
Herair and Lori Garboushian of Beverly Hills Garboushian Gallery curated for the auction important art works by world-renowned artists Hagop Hagopian, Vera Arutyunyan Kaloust Guedel, Seda Saar and photographer Ara Oshagan.
Orran was awarded a Certificate of Recognition from California’s Legislature Assemblyman Mike Gatto of the 43rd District and a Certificate of Commendation from the Mayor of County of Los Angeles Michael D. Antonovich, signed by him and the Supervisors of First, Second and Third Districts which was delivered by Greg Kahwajian, Mayor Antonovich's Appointee to the Civil Service Commission.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the evening was the legendary guitar of Serj Tankian. The guitar was played during the Wake Up the Souls tour for the 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide and was signed by all four members of the System of a Down. Mr. Tankian introduced the guitar and recalled how two years ago he and his wife Angela initiated the soup kitchen for the elderly in Vanadzor. A lively bidding ensued,. Mr. Garo Mardiorssian Esq., a long time supporter of Orran’s mission became the proud owner of the unique piece with the winning bid of $27,000.
Hilda Bogossian, Development Director of Orran North America stated “We thank all the generous compatriots who took part in this Journey of Hope thus sending a message of faith to the children and elderly in need.”
Orran is a charity in the Republic of Armenia which was established in the year 2000 and assists the children and elderly in need by providing a daily hot meal as well as medical, social, psychological services. After school, the children come to Orran to receive tutoring and participate in computer, woodshop, pottery and handcraft workshops. To date, over 7,000 people have benefitted form the services of Orran. Join us on Facebook or get more information at www.orran.am
