Dear AAMS Members,
The past year marked a defining chapter for the Armenian American Medical Society, as our fundraising efforts translated directly into meaningful, long term impact for healthcare communities at home and abroad.
The cornerstone of our fundraising success was the 40th Anniversary Gala, held on April 5, 2025, in Los Angeles. Celebrating four decades of service under the theme “Legacy,” the sold out event brought together more than 500 healthcare professionals, community leaders, and supporters united by a shared commitment to advancing medicine and service. Beyond commemorating AAMS’s history, the gala served as a powerful platform to invest in its future.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, sponsors, and attendees, proceeds from the gala were directed toward two critical priorities: expanding healthcare initiatives in Armenia and strengthening AAMS’s scholarship program to support the next generation of Armenian healthcare professionals in both the United States and Armenia.
One of the most significant outcomes of these fundraising efforts was the Gateway Ararat Health Clinic initiative in Armenia’s Ararat Province. Renovation work at the clinic officially began, marking an important milestone in expanding access to high quality, community based healthcare in the region. Construction progressed through local efforts, with completion anticipated in the second half of 2026, at which time the modernized facility will be better equipped to serve the health and wellness needs of the surrounding community.
In parallel with these developments, AAMS remained committed to fostering a sustainable healthcare ecosystem. In partnership with Gateway Industry, AAMS supported efforts focused on the recruitment and retention of local physicians, helping ensure that healthcare professionals could remain in their communities and continue providing care close to home. This approach strengthened the region’s healthcare infrastructure while building a lasting legacy of health, continuity, and well being for future generations.
Additionally, gala proceeds helped grow AAMS’s scholarship initiatives, reinforcing the organization’s long standing commitment to education and mentorship. These funds supported medical and healthcare students in both the United States and Armenia, empowering future physicians and healthcare leaders who will continue the cycle of service that defines AAMS.
AAMS also expanded its Mentorship and Research Program, creating meaningful opportunities for students and early career professionals to gain guidance, academic exposure, and professional confidence. Through mentorship events at UCLA and Glendale Community College, scientific poster sessions, and participation in national research conferences, students were able to present their work, connect with physician mentors, and strengthen their pathways into healthcare careers. These initiatives reflected AAMS’s commitment to investing in the next generation of healthcare leaders and ensuring long term impact through education and mentorship.
Another important area of impact was the continued success of the Glendale Health Festival, one of AAMS’s most significant community health initiatives. The festival reflected the strength of collaboration and shared purpose, bringing together trusted partners such as Medical Mission Adventures, Power of Sight Foundation, and BlueBox, along with numerous healthcare institutions, civic leaders, and community organizations. Through this collective effort, AAMS delivered high quality, multidisciplinary care at no cost to those who needed it most. Since its inception in 2010, the Glendale Health Festival has served thousands of individuals and has become a cornerstone of AAMS’s commitment to health equity, compassion, and service. Continued fundraising support ensured that this vital community resource could grow and remain sustainable, allowing AAMS to meet the ongoing healthcare needs of the community year after year.
These fundraising achievements reflected more than financial success. They represented trust, shared values, and collective purpose. From honoring past leaders to investing in future generations, education, and infrastructure, every dollar raised was channeled toward sustainable impact.
As we look ahead, AAMS remains deeply grateful to every donor, volunteer, sponsor, and committee member whose support made these accomplishments possible. Together, we are not only honoring a legacy, we are actively building the future of Armenian healthcare.
With sincere appreciation,
Garni Barkhoudarian, MD
President, Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS)