NY AYF ‘Bar Party’ Benefits Children in Armenia

"The Armenian Weekly", Volume 74, No. 32, August 16, 2007

On July 26, the New York AYF “Hyortik” Chapter brought together youth from all corners of the Armenian community for its annual Summer Bar Party. Armenians from New York, New Jersey, and as far away as Boston and Philadelphia packed a room at Latitude Bar in Manhattan where they danced all night to the music of DJ Ash.

“Our members had a great time at the annual AYF Summer Bar Party this past weekend. We can always count on the New York AYF to saturate Armenian celebrations with wholesome happiness, excitement, and pride in our heritage,” said Columbia University Armenian Club president Shaunte Baboumian. “It is with great joy that I partake in AYF events.”

Attendees talked, mingled, and danced under the large Armenian flag in the center of the room. They also watched photos and videos displayed on TVs throughout the bar depicting the activities of the New York AYF, the AYF Eastern Region, and AYFers around the world.

The “Hyortik” AYF donated a portion of the event’s proceeds to the ARS Sponsor-a-Child Program. Established in 1992, the program provides financial support to children whose parents were killed in the devastating 1988 earthquake in Gyumri, Armenia, and in the Artaskh struggle for self-determination. Over 7,000 children have been assisted by generous sponsors who annually contribute $130 per child, per year.