Dispelling Stereotypes

Through the Birthright/Armenian Volunteer Program, volunteers attend weekly forums and excursions to places near and wide throughout Armenia. All of our trips thus far have been extremely interesting and intriguing in their own ways, from a seminar on the history and future of Gyumri’s architecture to weekend outings viewing the beautiful landscapes and enjoying delicious khorovadz (BBQ) meals at locations like Stepanavan and Bazmamerd.

The experience that resonated with me most as of yet however occurred at our forum this week during our visit to the Trchoonian Home (orphanage). From the moment we entered the fully furnished facilities until we were seated in the impressive auditorium, I had a feeling the performance we were about to see by the 14-16 year old orphans would be correspondingly extraordinary.

The minute the teens appeared on stage my first reaction was one of surprise. Compared with most of the typical youth from Gyumri who often have rotted teeth and sallowed faces, these kids were bright eyed with glimmering smiles. Their dancing, vocal, and instrumental performances were comparable to ones given by performing arts students in the states and they had the utmost confidence in their talent without showing a shred of dejection because of the cards they have been dealt in life. As extravagant as it may sound, in comparison to the average life an Armenian child leads in Gyumri, it would almost be preferable to have been raised in such an environment over the typical nuclear family.

Hence, it should also be recognized that this specific orphanage is a rarity, funded privately by Diasporan Armenians. The country would in no way have the money or the will to fund such a facility when its organized families live in far worse conditions. The conclusion that can be drawn, however, is that many Diasporans have the education and the finances to make such things possible and in this specific instance, give a group of kids who had nothing and no where to turn to a completely renewed chance and limitless opportunities in life.

Undergoing renovation since the earthquake and being newly revived as of 2003 however, the Trchoonian Home has not faced the issue of needing to place orphans in college or work environments, with the eldest currently being 16 or 17 years of age. The option to continue living in the orphanage past adulthood always remains open to them, but I would hope to see continued efforts be made to ensure that these truly talented kids find a smooth transition into any life they may have envisioned for themselves. The people behind this institution are doing an amazing job and I think continued efforts made by Diasporans to bring such opportunities to the extremely unfortunate will not only dispel stereotypes of such hopeless citizens but help the rest of the country continue to pursue their hopes and dreams as well.