Ararat Home Celebrates a Legacy of Service
Ararat Home welcomed distinguished guests, community leaders, and longtime friends on February 28, 2026, for a memorable Gala held at Anoush Landmark. The elegant evening celebrated the Home’s enduring mission of providing compassionate, loving care to the elderly and honored those whose legacy of support has sustained that mission for generations.
Religious leaders and elected officials were among the esteemed attendees, reflecting the broad community support that has strengthened Ararat Home for decades. Their presence underscored the Home’s vital role not only as a center for care, but as a pillar of service and heritage in the community.
Following opening remarks by Mistress of Ceremonies Arshalous Darbinyan, TV host and personality, and renditions of the American and Armenian national anthems, the invocation and blessing of the tables were conducted by H.E. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, representing H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy, and Reverend Serop Megerditchian, Senior Pastor of the Glendale Armenian Church of the Nazarene, representing the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Ararat Home Board of Trustees Chair Joseph Kanimian, Esq. He thanked those gathered and the many contributors to the Home’s journey of success. He expressed his gratitude to the members of the Board, the volunteers, the staff, and the Gala organizing committee for their support and commitment to Ararat Home. “The 77th anniversary of the establishment of Ararat Home is a milestone in our community,” he stated.
A video presenting the past, present, and future of Ararat Home, prepared by Ms. Darbinyan in collaboration with Insight TV, was enthusiastically received by attendees. Short remarks were delivered afterwards by L.A. City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian, who reflected on the importance of Ararat Home for the community. He presented a proclamation to the Home signed by all City Council members. In return, Mr. Kanimian presented a diamond-studded Ararat Home lapel pin to the Councilmember for his contributions to the Home’s success.
The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Araksya Karapetyan, co-anchor of Good Day LA on FOX 11 Los Angeles. In heartfelt remarks, Ms. Karapetyan reflected on the profound social responsibility of caring for elders and praised Ararat Home for embodying those values with excellence and compassion. Her words resonated deeply with attendees and set a tone of gratitude and pride for the evening. Ms. Karapetyan was also presented with a diamond-studded Ararat Home pin in appreciation of her support.
A highlight of the Gala was the recognition of several individuals whose longstanding dedication and generosity have shaped the Home’s growth and success: Harry, Margaret and Sue Abrahamian; Hank and Louise Arklin; The G.A. Foster Legacy Foundation; Armen and Gloria Hampar Family Foundation; John and Hasmik Mgrdichian Foundation; Mgrublian Family; Nora Tertzag Charitable Trust; Maurice and Hilda Yotnegparian. Honorees were celebrated for their years of service, philanthropy, and unwavering commitment to ensuring that future generations of residents will continue to receive the highest standard of care. Their legacy of support stands as a testament to the power of community stewardship. Ararat Home CEO Derik Ghookasian and Board of Trustees Vice Chair Sinan Sinanian bestowed a diamond-studded Ararat Home pin upon honorees.
The Allen G. Orchestra performed musical selections to the delight of those gathered, bringing the evening to a close.
Proceeds from the Gala will directly support Ararat Home’s services enabling the organization to continue its noble mission of caring for the elderly with dignity.
