The Ararat Home of Los Angeles hosted its annual Gala on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the elegant Anoush Landmark. The memorable evening brought together community leaders, benefactors, and friends in celebration of the organization’s enduring mission of caring for the elderly. This year’s gala was held under the meaningful theme, “Rooted in Community, Grown with Care, Nurtured with Love and Compassion,” reflecting the guiding values that have sustained Ararat Home’s ministry of service for generations.

The evening’s program was gracefully guided by television host and personality Arshalous Darbinyan, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies and welcomed the distinguished guests and supporters gathered for the celebration. Among those in attendance was the Diocesan Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, whose heartfelt message underscored the spiritual significance of Ararat Home’s mission within the Armenian community.

“Tonight’s gala is more than an annual tradition – it is a unique opportunity to affirm a sacred calling,” Archbishop Derderian remarked. “Ararat Home stands as a living testament to who we are as a people and community.” Reflecting on the organization’s three campuses in Mission Hills, Glendale, and Eagle Rock, the Primate noted that Ararat Home provides independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care “with compassion, dignity and excellence,” adding, “More than services, it offers belonging. More than care, it offers family. But above all, it promotes Armenianness.” Quoting the Old Testament, he reminded those present that the Fifth Commandment instructs us to “Honor your father and your mother,” emphasizing that this commandment is not only personal but also communal. “A society reveals its soul by the way it treats its elders,” he said.

Archbishop Derderian also expressed gratitude to the leadership of Ararat Home and reflected on his personal connection to its ministry. “Since my arrival in Los Angeles twenty years ago, my annual pastoral visits to this blessed home have been among my most uplifting and enlightening experiences,” he shared. “With deep reverence, I honor all who dedicate themselves to the care of our elders, whose love is not merely spoken, but faithfully embodied through selfless service.” The Primate also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Board of Trustees, chaired by Joseph Kanimian, and to Derik Ghookasian for their dedicated leadership in ensuring that the institution remains steadfast in its sacred mission.

In his remarks, Mr. Kanimian expressed gratitude to every member of the Ararat Home family—including the staff, volunteers, administrators, board members, and supporting organizations—who share a united commitment to the well-being of its residents. Reflecting on the organization’s 77 years of compassionate service, he highlighted the enduring spirit of community that has sustained Ararat Home’s work on behalf of the elderly. During the evening, CEO Derik Ghookasian recognized the indelible contributions of the gala’s honorees and long-standing friends of Ararat Home: Harry, Margaret and Sue Abrahamian; Hank and Louise Arki; the G.A. Foster Legacy Foundation; the Armen and Gloria Hampar Family Foundation; the John and Hasmik Mgrdichian (JHM) Foundation; the Mgrublian Family; the Nora Tertzag Charitable Trust; and Maurice and Hilda Yotnegparian. The gala’s keynote address was delivered by Emmy Award–winning anchor and reporter Araksya Karapetyan, while guests also enjoyed lively musical entertainment performed by the Allen G. Orchestra, bringing the evening of celebration and gratitude to a joyful conclusion.