08 Jul, 2024

Experience the Real Armenia by Volunteering in Vanadzor

3 min read

Pop quiz! What is Armenia’s third-largest city? If you guessed Vanadzor, you’re right!

Nestled in the beautiful Lori Province, Vanadzor is a gem waiting to be discovered! And this year, our volunteer program in this city is celebrating a decade of amazing experiences and impact!

Have you ever thought about teaching, working in IT, or doing social work in Armenia? If you're craving an adventure outside the bustling streets of Yerevan, the Vanadzor program offers a unique and immersive experience you won't want to miss!

Back in 2007, Birthright Armenia realized it was time to expand beyond Yerevan and tap into the potential of other regions. Vanadzor, with its cool summers and stunning nature, was the perfect choice. Fast-forward to today, and we’re thrilled to announce that our Vanadzor program is marking its tenth anniversary with a brand-new volunteer headquarters officially opening this month.

Imagine this: A modern, fully renovated space where volunteers can gather, connect, and embark on their journey of cultural immersion and personal growth! Just like our hub in Gyumri, the new headquarters in Vanadzor is set to become a vibrant center for our activities, complete with an array of new placements, partner organizations, and host families.

Are hot summers not for you? Do you prefer the cool breeze of a city surrounded by mountains, where the temperatures are mild, and the scenery is breathtaking? Vanadzor is your answer.

Birthright Armenia’s Vanadzor program has always received high praise from volunteers for its immersive experience. “ Our volunteers consistently rate their experience in Vanadzor very highly, praising the unique blend of cultural immersion and personal growth they find here,” Kara, the coordinator of the Vanadzor program, shared. “By choosing Vanadzor, you become part of a shared commitment to building a vibrant future together, experiencing the true essence of Armenian hospitality and spirit."

Volunteering in Vanadzor is not just about the work; it’s about the connections you make and the adventures you have. Whether it’s hiking in the nearby mountains, enjoying the cool summer weather, or improving your Armenian language skills with the support of our dedicated language tutors, Vanadzor has something for everyone.

Volunteering in Vanadzor is also about experiencing Armenia's true essence. The city’s rich history, welcoming locals, and scenic landscapes make it ideal for those looking to dive deep into Armenian culture.

Chelsea, an alum of the Vanadzor program, always considered herself to be a big-city person; Vanadzor changed that. “I loved everything about the feel of the town, and being surrounded by green hills was great for my mental health. I enjoyed hearing and learning the local dialect. It's hard to describe exactly why I love Vanadzor so much, but it has a special spirit that draws me in,” she explained.

Kristine, another former participant, said that the city's size made it easier to feel like a local, but that doesn't mean there is a shortage of exciting things to do: “There are so many more places in Vanadzor than I expected—concerts, restaurants, bars, and best of all, the beautiful nature and mountains everywhere!”

Another exciting benefit? Volunteers in Vanadzor can easily connect with their peers in Yerevan and Gyumri on weekends for exciting excursions. Also, you don’t have to limit yourself to volunteering in just one location; you can experience the diversity and richness of Armenia by volunteering in a combination of one, two, or even all three cities Birthright Armenia offers.

So, are you ready to take the road less traveled? Are you excited to explore new frontiers and make a lasting impact in Armenia’s third-largest city?

We’re here to help you get started! Write to us at info@birthrightarmenia.am, and we’ll guide you through the process. Also, visit our website for more information and to hear more inspiring stories from our volunteers.

Embark on your adventure in Vanadzor with Birthright Armenia!