AYF Camp Hosts 4th Annual Winter Camp

LOS ANGELES—On Jan. 17, over 50 young Armenians set out for the 4th annual AYF Winter Camp. Over the long weekend, campers between the ages of 12 and 17 got to experience summer camp with a cool twist.

This year’s program brought on new games that had everyone excited, “Wacky Olympics has always been my favorite because everyone gets to shine in their own way,” said counselor Lori Tashdjian. “This year my favorite had to be egg roulette! It was the perfect mix of messy and fun.”

The weekend was full of exciting games and activities, as well as engaging educational presentations. “Campers watched photos, videos and listened attentively to learn about the life circumstances and ill-treatment of Armenians living in Javakhk. They participated in strong dialog, asking critical questions about geopolitics and brainstorming options for sustainable development in the region,” said Tamar Baboujian. “I felt the true essence of AYF Camp radiating throughout the entire 2-hour discussion, as campers gained knowledge, which in turn evoked compassion, strategic thinking and naturally led to a united urge for activism.”

AYF members Arpa Hatzbanian, Patil Aslanian, and Sarkis Semerjian gave a presentation on the Armenian Youth Federation, focusing on the activism and various projects of the AYF. Fellow staff members and campers shared their personal experiences as members and alumni of the AYF and AYF Juniors.

“It’s great to see the campers come back year after year ready and excited to have fun at camp,” said AYF Camp Management Board member Emineh Noravian, “With the success of Winter Camp we are excited to begin planning for this year’s summer camp program.”

Since 1977, AYF Camp has offered a genuinely rewarding experience, by serving as a place for Armenian youth to make new friends and memories of a lifetime. AYF camp is the largest and oldest Summer Camp program in the Western United States, focusing on Armenian culture and heritage. Visit www.AYFCamp.org for more information and sign up as a “Friend of AYF Camp” to receive news and updates on programs and events.