AYA:
AYA's main objective is to foster brotherhood and mutual understanding between various Lebanese and Armenian Youth associations and groups. This goal is realized through various athletic scouting, social and cultural activities. Following in the footsteps of its founder’s illustrious spirit, the Armenian General Benevolent Union has presented itself as a “glass chamber”, visible to all. By vi
rtue of its transparency in activities and dutiful service propagated throughout the society, the union owns with pride a fruitful history having merited the remarkable love and admiration of all Armenians. Today, the AGBU presents itself to our people with its unconditional contribution and Centennial observance. Hence, it is without a doubt crucial to offer all assistance for the union to prosper even more, to better serve our Nation’s survival and its cultural and social elevation. On April 15, 1906, the AGBU was founded in Cairo Egypt, through the vision and commendable efforts of Boghos Noubar Pasha, with the collaboration of a group of Armenians. It was their vision to make the AGBU a charitable, social and philanthropic organization, the motto of which, “Unity is Strength”, would be the guiding light of all Armenians. From the day of its foundation, the AGBU’s objective has been to serve the Armenian people by promoting their physical, economic and educational standards. During and immediately after the Genocide, the AGBU concentrated all it potential into the survival of the nation, and erected orphanages, dispensaries and other social institutions to help the survivors who found themselves refugees in foreign lands. AGBU has almost 200 branches and 25000 members in 24 countries, has carried out humanitarian, medical, educational, and social services to support the Armenian communities worldwide. Scouting has also played a vital role in AYA activities. It started with the scout’s troops in Beirut in 1931 and expanded to the current branches in different parts of Lebanon. The AYA scouts and guides are members that provide moral and financial support to the activities of AGBU and the AYA.
