Our Mission
Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) is an independent, non-governmental and non-sectarian organization which serves the humanitarian needs of the Armenian people and seeks to preserve the cultural identity of the Armenian nation. It mobilizes communities to advance the goals of all sectors of humanity. For nearly 110 years, it has pioneered solutions to address the challenges that impact our society.
Through its vast network of hundreds of thousands of dedicated volunteers and members, 220 chapters that operate in over 27 regions, the Armenian Relief Society has had the privilege to be on the front lines of leading our communities towards our collective goals. It plays an active role in providing resources and opportunities to the masses and through its exemplary rank, it pushes its members to serve their nation with total dedication offering the Armenian people and non-Armenians their time, energy, and talents in pursuit of their sacred mission.
The most important character trait of the ARS is its ability to unify general humanitarian aims with commitment to national service. It has always been receptive to the calls of the growing changes and diversity in the vital needs of society, remaining alert and steadfast with its mighty volunteer army.
As an international, humanitarian, non-governmental organization (NGO), the ARS also advocates for human rights, social justice, self-determination, and civil society in the halls of the international arena as a member of the United Nations.
ARS Canada, acting as a region within the global network of ARS Inc., has woven ARS global mission into the fabric of Armenian communities across the country. Through its local and regional activities, which are especially important in the 10 cities where ARS Canada chapters have been established over the last century, it has helped enrich the lives of Canadian-Armenians from coast to coast. Through its schools, summer camps, social services offices, and various other programs and events, ARS Canada’s volunteers and executive board help preserve the Armenian culture and heritage, as well as provide social and financial assistance to students, youth, women, senior citizens, newcomers to Canada, and those affected by natural disasters.
We achieve our goals by:
- Establishing and supporting ARS schools and summer camps
- Providing post-secondary education scholarships and volunteer awards
- Promoting activities that support women’s empowerment and inter-generational relationships
- Providing relief and moral support to the needy as well as the elderly within our communities
- Organizing educational events tailored to the needs of the communities we serve