This Newsletter aims to start thoughts, conversations, and communities with the specific focus on advancing Armenia and Armenian people.
Introducing our Think Armenian Smart Charity Tools
Introducing two new sections that we have added to our website (ThinkArmenian.com) that rate and provide updates on our favorite Armenian [U.S.] based charities.
The Smart Charity Director: A working directory of major U.S.-based Armenian charities, read through one question Think Armenian asks of every act: does this measurably advance Armenia, Artsakh, and the Armenian people? Each entry below carries its focus, its evidence of effect, and a direct line to give.
Charity Efforts Update: Monthly news from 9 high-impact Armenian organizations — curated through the Smart Charity lens. Every link goes directly to the source.
Armenia in the News
Small Business
MODA Mocktails
MODA Mocktails is a women-owned, Armenian-American mother-daughter beverage company creating premium non-alcoholic mocktails inspired by classic cocktails. The brand was born from their shared passion for bringing people together through meaningful experiences and great-tasting beverages. Named after their special MOther + DAughter bond, MODA blends bold flavors, natural ingredients, and real fruit juice to craft sophisticated alcohol-free drinks that celebrate connection, wellness, and inclusivity. Through their entrepreneurial journey, the Hachigian family proudly represents Armenian-American innovation while creating a refreshing alternative for those seeking all the flavor and ritual of a cocktail without the alcohol. (Source: MODA Mocktails)
Art
The Promise
The Promise is a 2016 historical drama directed by Terry George that follows an Armenian medical student caught in a love triangle during the final years of the Ottoman Empire. Set against the backdrop of the Armenian Genocide, the film highlights themes of love, survival, and resilience while bringing global attention to an important chapter of Armenian history. Through emotional storytelling and powerful performances, The Promise honors the strength of the Armenian people and the enduring importance of remembrance.(Source: IMDb)
Book
My Name is Aram – William Saroyan
My Name Is Aram by William Saroyan is a classic collection of interconnected short stories that captures the humor, warmth, and resilience of Armenian immigrant life in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Told through the eyes of a young Armenian boy, the book explores themes of family, tradition, identity, and belonging with both charm and sincerity. Through vivid storytelling and memorable characters, Saroyan celebrates the everyday experiences that shape culture and community. (Source: Amazon)
Nonprofit to Support
Paros Foundation
Paros Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting communities in Armenia through humanitarian aid, education, infrastructure development, and social impact programs. Through volunteer initiatives and community partnerships, the organization helps fund projects that create long-term opportunities for families and children across Armenia. (Source: Paros)
Armenian Word
Կարոտ (Karot) — Longing / Deep Missing
Karot is an Armenian word used to describe a deep sense of longing or missing someone, someplace, or a moment in time. Often tied to family, homeland, and memory, the word carries an emotional depth that goes beyond simple nostalgia. In Armenian culture, karot reflects the enduring connections people hold to loved ones, heritage, and home—no matter how near or far they may be.
Recipe
Zhingyalov Hats
Zhingyalov hats is a traditional flatbread from Artsakh filled with a finely chopped blend of 10–20 different fresh herbs and greens, including parsley, cilantro, dill, spinach, scallions, and wild mountain greens depending on the season. Cooked on a hot griddle without oil or meat, it reflects Armenia’s deep connection to foraged ingredients, simplicity, and plant-based cooking rooted in the land. Light, fresh, and deeply aromatic, zhingyalov hats is a communal dish often prepared by hand in large batches, celebrating togetherness and seasonal abundance. (Source: Hermann)
In the Community
Are you making an impact in your Armenian community — locally or globally? Tell us how. Email us at [email protected] to be featured in the next edition.