In 2010 Amaras organized two workshops in Armenia for young women and their mothers. The subject was Human Trafficking: the magnitude and the scope of the problem on the national, regional and international levels and what women can do to protect themselves and their loved ones against this vicious social ailment.
The US embassy in Armenia and many local and international watch-dog organizations have expressed their concern for this human rights violation which prompted Amaras to initiate the project. Funded in 2008 with private donations mad by families concern for Armenia’s women and children, the program has a paid facilitator who has been trained to conduct these workshops.
It provides information about trafficking, forced labor and commercial sexual exploitation. Pertinent DVD’s and other material are handed out to participants following discussions and role playing sessions on:
- Factors contributing to the problem
- How to spot a RAT [the wolf in sheep’s clothing]
- Discerning valid career options and offers
- How to tell real jobs in tourist destinations versus traps
For further information please write to us at AipArmenia@yahoo.com.
Workshops Held
2011- Three workshops as of 9/28/11
- April 27- The Maryam Courage and Strength Memorial Workshop – report
At High School No 190,Yerevan - August 8- Chambarak, Gexarkunik region – report
- September 3- Gladzor, Vayots Tzor region – report
2010- Two workshops
- SW District of Yerevan
- Vayots Tzor region
Planned Activities
TBA
The Budget for each workshop is $100 [US Dollars]; a very reasonable sum by any standards. Contributions come form our community families and are graciously acknowledged on this page without fully identifying the donor. We feel prudence is necessary due to the sensitive nature of the project. To sponsor one or more workshops and make a donation in lieu of gifts, in honor or in memory of a beloved woman and/or mother please contact our project manager in Boston Rev. Joanne Hartunian at this address AipArmenia@yahoo.com or use the button above to give online. Thank you.
- In 2010 Lorig & Matt funded the training of Amaras’ anti-trafficking workshop facilitator and two workshops in lieu of birthday gifts for their daughter Aline’s first birthday party
- 2011 Contibuters are: Zorigian family, Ani Yessaillian and an anonymous donor