Fuller Center of Armenia marks 15 years with our affordable housing ministry
Fuller Center of Armenia marks 15 years with our affordable housing ministry
In 1988, a devastating earthquake struck Armenia while it was still a part of the Soviet Union. Soviet leaders sent in thousands of metal shipping containers to be used as “temporary” shelters — known as domiks — for displaced families.
The next year, the Soviet Union collapsed. Armenia, a country with a rich culture but also a history of troubles, would soon find itself independent once again. Decades later, though, there still are thousands of families living in domiks.
In 2008, a highly effective group of people who had spent years helping families have simple, decent places to live, was forced to cut ties with the U.S.-based housing nonprofit that had helped them with funds and volunteers. Like the thousands of families living in domiks, they also needed a new home — a nonprofit umbrella with which they could continue their work.
“In 2008, we got a call from a friend telling us that an Armenian housebuilding nonprofit he worked with had been locked out by the organization it had been with and was looking for a new home, specifically a home that could send them work teams,” recalled Fuller Center for Housing President David Snell. “I made tracks to get over there and visit with them, and a great partnership was formed.”
The Fuller Center of Armenia would go on to become The Fuller Center for Housing’s most productive partner over the next 15 years, housing more than 1,400 families. This year, they are celebrating that 15th anniversary.
“Armenia is a hidden gem,” Snell said. “It’s a beautiful and ancient country — it was the very first a adopt Christianity as the national religion. The food is outstanding, the ancient churches and monasteries fascinating to see, and the people there are hardworking and diligent. We’re proud to have them as partners and wish them the very best for the next 15!”
For more on the 15th anniversary and a special message from Fuller Center of Armenia President Ashot Yeghiazaryan, check out their 2022 Annual Report.
2 Comments
My father immigrated from Armenia in 1923, my mother’s parents in 1924. The Fuller Center for Armenia has part of our annual giving for years, and now is in memory of both my parents. I am very proud to see the good the Fuller Center has done in helping to rebuild Armenia and provide housing! Once I retire I hope to travel to Armenia and would love to participate in a housing build.
Great! Be sure to bookmark fullercenter.org/armenia. We’d love to have you on a trip someday.