Armenia Tree Project Provides Villagers with Economic Opportunities through its Backyard Nursery Program
With each passing year, the popularity of ATP’s Backyard Nursery micro-enterprise project grows and the number of families interested in participating has increased significantly. ATP is currently cooperating with dozens of beneficiary families in Aghavnavank, Margahovit, and Keti villages, located in the Tavush, Lori and Shirak provinces of Armenia.
Backyard Nursery provides rural residents with the opportunity to earn supplemental income from tree sales. ATP provides each family with seeds and instructions on how to care for them. When the seedlings have grown enough to be transplanted, ATP purchases and replants the saplings in its forestry and community planting sites.
The increase in income allows people to live in their community rather than leaving for abroad to seek a job. Vyacheslav Gevorgov, a participant from Aghavnavank, says that he likes Backyard Nursery because “it allows me to earn money working at home while at the same time spend more time with my two little babies and my wife.” The additional money also allows families to afford health care treatments, renovate deteriorated houses, send their children to better schools and open up opportunities for educational advancement, as well as to support their families through the year. Kamo Mirzoyan, a longtime participant from Aghavnavank, notes that one reason the program is popular is because unemployment is widespread in the village. Mirzoyan adds, “Every year during this season I am sure I will earn a certain amount of money which can be spent for my family needs. This year I will pay my son’s college fee.”
Apart from providing financial support to the rural communities, the Backyard Nursery Program contributes to ATP’s other initiatives by providing more trees to reforest/afforest Armenia. Each nursery has the capacity to grow near 1,000-3,000 trees.
In 2021, the three communities together have contributed over 25,000 trees and shrubs to ATP’s planting programs. By growing trees, these families are contributing to Armenian’s environmental health while earning a livelihood that enables them to stay in the homeland and uplift their families. Marine Malayan, a participant from Margahovit, says, “I really appreciate ATP’s efforts in supporting villagers like me. The project changes the environment and the life quality. My goal for the next year is to sell no less than 2,000 shrubs.”
Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor from Chicago, ATP recently provided 25 Backyard Nursery families with some special New Year’s gifts, which included hand tools, large water tanks, and clothing and toys for their children.
If you would like to support ATP”s seasonal workers, please visit www.ArmeniaTreeProject.org/en/donation and note ‘Backyard Nursery Program in the Comment Box. Armenia Tree Project, established in 1994, is a non-profit organization that revitalizes Armenia’s and Artsakh’s most vulnerable communities through tree-planting initiatives, and provides socio-economic support and growth. It is based in Yerevan, Armenia and has an office in Woburn, Massachusetts. For more information, please visit ArmeniaTree.org
Armenia Tree Project Welcomes Juliette Amidi as New Environmental Specialist
GROWING A GREENER ARMENIA: ATP'S 2024 PLANTING MILESTONE
30th Anniversary Photo Exhibition
Trees for Life: Celebrating 30 Years of Legacy
ATP Kicks Off Massive Fall Tree Planting to Secure Armenia’s Green Future
Armenian Friends in Van
We’re proud to have co-sponsored the 'We Stand with Forests' exhibition, highlighting the vital role of forests and the urgency of reforestation in Armenia. Partnering with AHA Collective, My Forest Armenia, and WWF, we supported 15 artists in showcasing the importance of preserving our country’s biodiversity.
Loss. It’s a word that has defined the lives of the 120,000 refugees who were forced to flee Artsakh in September 2023. These families have faced the unimaginable—loss of jobs, land, loved ones. Yet, amidst this overwhelming loss, a beacon of hope shines through in the form of growth, cultivation, and the ability to harvest food. Thanks to the Armenia Tree Project's (ATP) Resilient Roots initiative, these families are finding a path forward, reconnecting with their roots, and nurturing a future filled with possibilities. Resilient Roots: Nurturing Hope Amidst Hardship Resilient Roots is one of ATP’s many programs, designed to address not just environmental needs but also to uplift communities facing extraordinary challenges. Founded in 1994 by Boston-based philanthropist Carolyn Mugar, ATP has always been about more than just planting trees. From its early days of replanting trees cut down during the 1992 energy crisis to its expansive reforestation and environmental education efforts, ATP has consistently promoted self-sufficiency and improved the standard of living for the Armenian people. In recent years, ATP's mission expanded to include the Resilient Roots project , born from the Backyard Greenhouse Project in Artsakh, which began in 2021. This initiative, launched in partnership with Green Lane, an NGO focused on agricultural training, was a lifeline for families who had lost everything during the 2020 war. By providing greenhouses and training, Resilient Roots empowered families to grow their own food, offering both sustenance and a sense of purpose during the harsh blockade of the Lachin Corridor. Stories of Resilience and Renewal The stories of the families who have benefited from Resilient Roots are as inspiring as they are poignant. Take, for example, the Jabyan family. Forced to relocate during the 2020 war, they found hope in their greenhouse, which provided enough vegetables to sustain them throughout the winter of 2022-2023. Despite the blockade that left many in Artsakh struggling for basic necessities, the Jabyan family was able to rely on their greenhouse for survival—and even shared their produce with neighbors. Similarly, the Beglaryan family, from Khnabad village in Artsakh, used their greenhouse to grow tomatoes and cucumbers, helping them weather the nine-month blockade. "These greenhouses helped during the blockade for self-sufficiency and even economically helped some folks who sold the food they grew," says Masis Zargaryan, Artsakh Project Assistant at ATP. The greenhouses not only provided food but also a critical source of income during an incredibly difficult time. Now, these families, like so many others from Artsakh, face a new reality in Armenia. Unemployment, underemployment, and the high cost of living have created a new set of challenges. Resilient Roots is stepping up once again, this time with a focus on building collapsible greenhouses for families with available yard space—an effort designed to provide stability even if these families must move again. A Call to Action: Support Resilient Roots Resilient Roots is about planting hope, cultivating resilience, and nurturing a future where these families can thrive once more. As we continue to expand our efforts, we invite you to join us in this vital mission. Your support can help us build more greenhouses, provide more families with the tools they need to rebuild their lives, and expand our educational programs to ensure that every seed planted grows into a future filled with promise. Help Us Grow We are currently working with eight of the original forty-nine families, including the Jabyans and Beglaryans, to provide them with greenhouses in Armenia. Our goal is to expand this initiative, partnering once again with Green Lane to offer an even greater variety of seeds and educational materials. This time, the greenhouses will be more than a source of food—they will be a source of income and a lifeline for families determined to rebuild their lives. Your donation to Armenia Tree Project can make a real difference. Together, we can restore optimism and stability for Artsakh refugees, one greenhouse at a time. This article was written by Sarine Meguerditchian, originally from the Boston area, who is a rising Junior at Northwestern University studying Economics and Political Science, and Shushanik Hayriyan from Artsakh, who currently attends the College of Idaho where she studies International Political Economy and Business. Sarine and Shushanik are currently interning for the Armenan Assembly of America, ATP’s parent organization.
In a moment of both personal triumph and broader significance for Armenia’s environmental future, Rousanne Arustamyan, the Director of Armenia Tree Project (ATP) in Armenia, has been recognized with the prestigious "Climate Change and Women in Armenia 2024" Award. This honor, bestowed by the Women in Climate and Energy NGO, in collaboration with the Republic of Armenia Ministry of Environment, the UNDP, and the Republic of Armenia Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, highlights her exceptional contributions to climate change mitigation solutions. The award ceremony, designed to celebrate and empower Armenian women’s roles in sustainable development and women-led solutions, marked a pivotal moment for Arustamyan and Armenia Tree Project, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The event featured multiple categories recognizing women across various facets of climate action, including Climate Change Adaptation Solutions, Climate Community Actions and Policies, Climate Issues and Solutions Coverage, Climate Education for All, Climate Finance and Innovation Solutions, and Youth in Climate Action. However, it was Arustamyan’s work in Climate Change Mitigation Solutions that earned her this distinguished accolade. Rousanne Arustamyan’s journey with Armenia Tree Project began on June 1, 1998, when she joined the organization as an Admin and Finance Assistant. Over the years, her role evolved, as she steadily climbed the ranks within the organization. From gaining valuable experience in finance and administrative tasks, Arustamyan moved on to become the Finance Manager, where she took on greater responsibility in overseeing ATP’s financial operations and strategy. In her current role as Director of Armenia Tree Project in Armenia, Arustamyan has been instrumental in leading broader initiatives and shaping the overall direction of the organization. Each stage of Arustamyan’s career has presented unique challenges and opportunities for growth, and she has met them with resilience, dedication, and a commitment to the mission of Armenia Tree Project. As a woman in a leadership position, Arustamyan’s achievement is particularly significant. In a field where female leadership is often underrepresented, her recognition sets a powerful example for other women in Armenia and beyond. It underscores the vital role women play in the fight against climate change and in shaping sustainable development strategies for a better future. Winning the "Climate Change and Women in Armenia 2024" award in the category of Climate Change Mitigation Solutions is a testament to her hard work and unwavering belief in the power of community-driven environmental initiatives. This award is also a tribute to Armenia Tree Project’s legacy as an organization founded by a woman, Carolyn Mugar, and currently led by another woman, Executive Director Jeanmarie Papelian. The organization’s commitment to empowering women in environmental leadership is exemplified by Arustamyan’s success. Beyond her role as director at ATP, Arustamyan also helped found Armenia’s Forest Alliance, a coalition of environmental NGOs that advocates for forest protection, restoration, and afforestation in Armenia. Her participation on behalf of ATP in this alliance further demonstrates her deep commitment to preserving Armenia’s natural landscapes for future generations. As ATP reflects on its 30 years of work in the region, Arustamyan’s recognition comes at a pivotal time. Over the past three decades, ATP has been a cornerstone in Armenia’s environmental efforts, planting millions of trees and working to restore the country’s degraded landscapes. The organization has not only focused on reforestation but has also adapted its strategies to address the evolving needs of both the land and the people of Armenia. From empowering local communities to implement sustainable practices to advocating for policies that protect Armenia’s natural resources, ATP continues to make significant strides in environmental conservation. The "Climate Change and Women in Armenia 2024" Award is not just a recognition of Arustamyan’s past accomplishments but also a beacon of encouragement for her future endeavors. As Armenia Tree Project looks ahead to its next chapter, Arustamyan’s leadership will undoubtedly continue to inspire innovative solutions to the pressing environmental challenges facing Armenia and the world. Arustamyan said, “I could not have won this award without the teamwork and hard work of my ATP colleagues over the past 30 years.” In receiving this award, Rousanne Arustamyan has once again proven that the synergy between strong leadership, community involvement, and a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship can yield powerful results. Her journey serves as a reminder of the critical role that women play in building a sustainable future, one tree at a time.
“The Road to Green” Premieres at DC’s Kennedy Center: A Celebration of Armenia Tree Project’s Vision
On Friday, August 2, the Justice Forum at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, came alive with the spirit of environmental stewardship as it hosted the premiere of “The Road to Green,” a compelling documentary by the renowned Yerevan-based director, Artak A. Avetyan. The film, which drew a full house, sheds light on the transformative work of Armenia Tree Project’s (ATP) Community Tree Planting program, highlighting the profound impact of this initiative on Armenia’s landscapes and communities. Artak A. Avetyan, who previously directed “Antar,” a film about ATP’s reforestation efforts, brings to life the stories of ATP’s mission to green Armenia. Avetyan takes viewers on a journey through some of the 1,600 sites where ATP’s work has brought new life to the land. From the heartwarming success of the Backyard Nursery micro-enterprise program to the inspiring story of a “green wall” planted near a cemetery in a border village—providing safety and comfort to residents—the documentary is a testament to the resilience and hope that ATP cultivates through every tree they plant. The Kennedy Center event was not just a film premiere; it was a celebration of international collaboration and shared values. The event was the result of a partnership between ATP and Casey Trees, a Washington DC-based organization that mirrors ATP’s commitment to urban planting and community education. The Kennedy Center’s Social Impact team, inspired by the synergy between these two organizations, brought them together for a summer evening dedicated to forests. The evening began at 6 pm at the Kennedy Center’s Starlight Pavilion, where attendees were greeted with a vibrant display of Armenian culture. The atmosphere was filled with traditional Armenian music, line dancing led by the Armenian Assembly’s summer interns, and the joy of community as people gathered to craft, share stories, and make wishes at the traditional Armenian wishing tree. ATP’s beloved mascot, Tchalo, made appearances, adding to the festive spirit. Both ATP and Casey Trees set up educational tables, offering insights into their urban planting programs and the broader impact of their work. At 8 pm, the main event commenced. Following opening remarks by Alex Kew, Casey Trees’ Communication and Events Manager and longtime supporter and former volunteer of ATP, and Jeanmarie Papelian, ATP’s Executive Director, the documentary was shown. The audience’s enthusiasm was palpable, as they were moved by the powerful stories and visuals that portrayed the life-changing work of ATP. The evening didn’t end with the film. After the documentary, the audience was treated to a screening of “The Lorax,” a beloved tale by Dr. Seuss that underscores the importance of caring for our environment. This added a playful yet poignant note to the evening, reinforcing the message that every action we take to protect our environment is vital. As we continue our journey to green Armenia, we invite you to be a part of this transformative work. Your donations to Armenia Tree Project are crucial in helping us plant more trees, restore ecosystems, and support communities in need. Every tree we plant is a step toward a more sustainable future for Armenia and the world. Inspired by our mission? If you’d like to host a screening of “The Road to Green” in your community or would like the ATP team to visit and share more about our work, please contact us at info@armeniatree.org. Together, we can continue to spread the message of environmental conservation and make a lasting impact.