“Elevate yourself and others with you.”
The Homenetmen Washington, D.C. Chapter is part of the global Homenetmen (Armenian General Athletic Union and Scouts) organization, founded in 1918 in Constantinople. The chapter serves the Armenian-American community in the D.C. metropolitan area, combining sports, scouting, and community engagement to promote physical, moral, and cultural development among its members.
Founding and Purpose
The Washington, D.C. Chapter was established to provide Armenian youth and families with opportunities to connect through athletic and scouting programs while fostering a strong sense of Armenian identity and values. The chapter’s mission reflects Homenetmen’s motto: “Elevate yourself and others with you.”
Key Programs and Activities
- Scouting (Scouts):
- The scouting program teaches leadership, teamwork, and responsibility through outdoor activities, camping trips, and community service.
- Scouts learn valuable life skills while also celebrating Armenian traditions and history.
- The D.C. Scouts regularly participate in regional and international jamborees, connecting with other Homenetmen chapters worldwide.
- Athletics:
- The chapter organizes sports teams, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball, for various age groups.
- Members participate in local leagues and tournaments, including the annual Homenetmen Navasartian Games, which bring together chapters from across the U.S. and internationally.
- Cultural and Educational Events:
- The chapter hosts cultural programs, lectures, and events that promote Armenian heritage and history.
- Activities often include celebrating Armenian holidays, such as Vartanants and Genocide Remembrance Day, and supporting the broader D.C. Armenian community.
- Community Engagement:
- Members volunteer in local charitable initiatives, helping to strengthen ties with the wider community.
- The chapter collaborates with other Armenian organizations in the area to promote unity and advocacy for Armenian causes.
- Youth Development:
- Homenetmen D.C. provides a platform for Armenian youth to develop leadership skills, build lifelong friendships, and maintain a connection to their cultural roots.
Regional and Global Impact
As part of the larger Homenetmen network, the D.C. Chapter benefits from a global community of chapters that share resources, expertise, and camaraderie. The chapter plays an active role in advancing the Armenian diaspora’s collective goals of unity, cultural preservation, and social responsibility.
Significance
The Homenetmen Washington, D.C. Chapter is a cornerstone of the Armenian-American community in the region. Through its diverse programs, it nurtures the physical, intellectual, and moral growth of its members while fostering a deep sense of Armenian pride and cultural heritage.
To get involved, email washington@homenetmen.org
