Not only do we want our participants to be exposed Armenia's rich history, but we also want them to engage in contemporary Armenian society. This is why we are launching a Community Engagement Program where participants will work with an organization of their choice for three days a week. While visiting the spiritually and culturally significant sites are a priority, the month-long duration of the trip allots time to get acquainted with medical clinics, children’s centers, and other organizations in the public and private sector. CYMA will consider participant preferences as they set them up with organizations throughout Yerevan.

Currently, the CYMA board is finalizing the trip itinerary.
What we know for certain:
• Participants will be living in a house in Yerevan
• Trip to Lake Sevan
• Trip to Artsakh
• Weeklong trip in Gyumri completing a service project while living with home stay families
• NEW--Community Engagement Program

On January 23rd, CYMA held a very successful informational meeting at the Diocese headquarters in Burbank. Armine Semirdjian delivered a coherent presentation of this year’s trip and mission in front of an enthusiastic group of young adults and engaged parents. As a result of this meeting, CYMA now has a total of 5 committed participants, which leaves a total of 7 remaining spots.

Applications and the Final Deposit are still due on March 2, 2010. Applications are available at http://www.cyma-wd.org.

Several parents are now collaborating to help with fundraising, which will help to reduce the cost of the trip for all participants. One suggestion they entertained is hosting an estate sale with donated items. As the proceeds of this sale will benefit everyone, all potential participants and their families are encouraged to contribute to this effort. More details on this sale will soon be available for anyone who wishes to be involved.

What is in store next?
March 1, 2010—CYMA Applications and Deposit Due to Sarah Mergeanian
April 10, 2010—Orientation and Final Payment Due at the Diocese
June 19, 2010—11:00 AM Final Orientation at the Diocese
July 1, 2010-July 30, 2010—Duration of the trip

If you have any questions about the trip, please do not hesitate to contact any member of the board--
Fr. Avedis Abovian: fravedis@armenianchurchwd.com
David Yaldezian: david.yaldezian@gmail.com
Sarah Mergeanian: sarah@cyma-wd.org
Armine Semerjian: armine@cyma-wd.org
Tatiana Semerjian: tatiana@cyma-wd.org