ARS Youth Connect Spotlights ANCA Programs

ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program Deadline Extended to April 1

NEW YORK—The Armenian National Committee of America’s (ANCA) commitment to youth civic development was spotlighted at this year’s ground-breaking Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Youth Connect Program, which attracted more than 80 college students and recent graduates for a weekend of interactive presentation and dialogue about Armenian national identity and community development.

(L-R) Carnie Armenian, Nairi Khachatourian, Armen Sahakyan, Christina Lalama, and Adam Aktchian

The ANCA Eastern Region’s Armen Sahakyan shared some of the milestones and achievements of the ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship (LSI) Summer Program and Capital Gateway Program, as he chaired a panel that featured representatives from the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), and Habitat for Humanity.

“ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program is a great opportunity to learn more about the Armenian Cause (Hai Tahd), meet national leaders, and participate in special events in Washington, D.C.,” Sahakyan said. “It provides the interns a chance to have a direct positive effect on ANCA’s day-to-day activities, develop their professional skills, and take advantage of the great opportunities available in Washington, D.C. As an alum of the program, I can confidently recommend it to all students interested in politics, economics, media, and civic engagement.”

Inspired by participant response, the ANCA Eastern Region has extended the application deadline for the 2015 ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program to April 1, giving attendees and participating organizations the opportunity to spread the word and apply for this year’s summer session.

The LSI Program is a cornerstone of the ANCA’s nationwide efforts to educate, motivate, and activate Armenian-American youth to expand advocacy efforts in their hometowns and campuses. During the eight-week Washington program, interns live at the Capital Gateway House, located a short distance from the ANCA National Headquarters. The participants work on a wide variety of projects based on their individual interests, while gaining hands-on experiences within the American political system. A bi-weekly lecture series features guest lecturers, including members of Congress, ambassadors, and Armenian-American leaders.

Established in 1985, the ANCA Summer Internship Program is named after the late Leo Sarkisian, an ANCA Eastern U.S. leader who spearheaded grassroots activism for more than four decades. The program has hundreds of alumni across the world, spreading the message of truth and justice for the Armenian Genocide, freedom for Artsakh, and a secure, prosperous, and democratic Armenian homeland.

For applications to the LSI Program, visit http://anca.org/assets/capital_gateway/LSI_Application_2015.pdf.