About Us

HOW WE WORK

Our Approach

CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

Family & Therapies

We provide community, support, and developmental therapies ranging from psychological to art, music, and physiotherapy, to children from 1-18 years old at our Emili Aregak Center.

young adults with disabilities

Training & Jobs

Through our 9 Steps to the Labor Market course we offer young adults training to prepare for work. We also offer them through Green Aregak and Aregak Bakery, places for them to work.

communities

Awareness

We are committed to having a positive impact on the community around us. Residents of our neighborhood and guests of our bakery and chalet have the chance to interact with people of different ability levels who are often hidden in society. This fosters inclusion and changes harmful stereotypes.

institutions

Training & Advocacy

In partnership with both governmental and non-governmental institutions, we advocate for laws and practices that support and empower people with disabilities and their families. We provide inclusivity and accessibility training to representatives of cultural and educational institutions.

environment

Self Suffiency

We aim to have a positive impact on our natural environment by using our resources wisely. Our campus is totally gas-free. We rely on solar panels for electricity and an innovative geothermal system for heating. Our greenhouse uses biological pesticides.

caregivers

Economic opportunity & community

We partner with parents through the provision of group counseling and training opportunities. When possible, we integrate parents into our workforce as cooks and cleaners at Emili Aregak, bakers at Aregak Bakery, and gardeners at Green Aregak. With the support of partner hotels, we also provide respite retreats for caregivers.

DISTRIBUTION

Our Finances

Your donations power the foundation and Emili Aregak Center, helping us provide critical care and services. Our self-sustaining initiatives, like Aregak Bakery & Café, continue to thrive without relying on these resources.

72%

Providing Therapies

Providing developmental therapies is the focus of our work. This means providing salaries for the therapists, accessible transportation to and from the center for the children, ensuring the equipment is maintained and the space is clean and safe.

13%

Management

Behind the scenes, our management team ensures the center runs like clockwork. From HR to office support and leadership, their dedication keeps everything moving forward, allowing us to focus on the children we serve.

Marketing & Fundraising

While we do generate income through our social enterprises, we still need support from our wonderful donors to make the magic happen! This enables us to develop marketing materials, maintain our online presence, and engage donors as we work toward increasing our self-sufficiency.

Accounting & Legal

Our financial and legal team manage our audits and provide expert advice and monitoring services. This ensures that we remain compliant and transparent in all our work, so every donation is used responsibly.

VIDEO

Our Misson

In the early 2000s, children with disabilities in Gyumri faced isolation, stigma, and little access to care. Aregak was founded to change that — creating a place where children receive therapy, support, and inclusion.What began as a small initiative has grown into a center supporting over 150 children and their families each year, providing accessible care and opportunities to thrive.

our leadership

Meet the team

It takes a special sort of person to work at Aregak. Our job isn’t easy. There are days we celebrate, and there are days we cry. But we love what we do, because every day, we see the difference we make.