The Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) is one of the oldest and most prominent Armenian political organizations, founded in 1890 with the mission of promoting Armenian rights, independence, and cultural preservation. Over time, the ARF has established a network of sister organizations that work collaboratively to address the multifaceted needs of the Armenian nation. These organizations—ARS (Armenian Relief Society), Homenetmen, Hamazkayin, ANCA (Armenian National Committee of America), and AYF (Armenian Youth Federation)—serve as vital pillars supporting the ARF’s vision and objectives. Together, they form a dynamic ecosystem of advocacy, education, cultural preservation, and humanitarian service.

1. Armenian Relief Society (ARS)

• Founded: 1910
• Mission: Humanitarian and social service organization focusing on relief efforts, education, and health initiatives.
• Role within the ARF Family: ARS addresses the humanitarian needs of Armenians worldwide. It provides disaster relief, supports orphans, funds schools, and administers programs to empower women. ARS works closely with other ARF-affiliated organizations to ensure Armenians in Armenia, Artsakh, and the diaspora have access to critical resources.

2. Homenetmen (Armenian General Athletic Union and Scouts)

• Founded: 1918
• Mission: To develop the physical and moral character of Armenian youth through athletics, scouting, and leadership training.
• Role within the ARF Family: Homenetmen nurtures Armenian identity by fostering discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to community. The organization’s scouting programs instill national pride, while its athletic programs encourage physical fitness. Homenetmen chapters collaborate with ARF-led initiatives to build resilient and culturally aware youth.

3. Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society

• Founded: 1928
• Mission: To preserve and promote Armenian language, arts, and culture through education and artistic expression.
• Role within the ARF Family: Hamazkayin serves as the cultural arm of the ARF, focusing on the preservation of Armenian heritage. It organizes literary events, concerts, theatrical performances, and educational programs that strengthen Armenian identity in the diaspora. Hamazkayin ensures that Armenian traditions continue to thrive in an ever-changing world.

4. Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA)

• Founded: 1941
• Mission: Advocacy and lobbying organization dedicated to advancing Armenian-American interests and promoting Armenian issues in U.S. policy.
• Role within the ARF Family: ANCA is the political and advocacy wing of the ARF in the United States. It fights for justice for the Armenian Genocide, Artsakh’s self-determination, and aid for Armenia and Armenians worldwide. The ANCA mobilizes grassroots efforts, lobbies U.S. lawmakers, and builds coalitions to advance Armenian causes on a global stage.

5. Armenian Youth Federation (AYF)

• Founded: 1933
• Mission: A youth organization that educates and empowers young Armenians to serve their communities and uphold Armenian identity.
• Role within the ARF Family: AYF serves as the youth wing of the ARF, preparing the next generation of leaders. Through its activities—such as educational seminars, sports tournaments, cultural events, and activism—it ensures that young Armenians remain connected to their heritage while becoming active participants in Armenian advocacy.

6. Armenian Youth Center of Greater Washington (AYC)

The Armenian Youth Center of Greater Washington (AYC) is dedicated to building a strong community and youth center that fosters Armenian identity, culture, and engagement. Its primary goal is to provide a welcoming space where Armenian-American youth and families can connect, learn, and grow together through cultural, educational, athletic, and social programs. By supporting various Armenian organizations and initiatives, the AYC serves as a hub for community building, leadership development, and the preservation of Armenian heritage in the Greater Washington area.

Interconnected Roles

These sister organizations function as an ecosystem, each addressing specific aspects of the Armenian national agenda:

1. Humanitarian Support (ARS): Meets the physical and social needs of Armenians.
2. Physical and Moral Development (Homenetmen): Builds disciplined, strong, and community-oriented youth.
3. Cultural Preservation (Hamazkayin): Safeguards Armenian language, art, and traditions.
4. Advocacy and Justice (ANCA): Represents Armenian interests on the global political stage.
5. Youth Empowerment (AYF): Trains young Armenians to carry forward the national struggle.

Collective Impact

Together, these organizations extend the ARF’s mission into every facet of Armenian life:

• They create a unified approach to addressing the challenges faced by Armenians in Armenia, Artsakh, and the diaspora.
• They ensure the Armenian nation remains resilient, vibrant, and forward-thinking.
• They build bridges across generations, ensuring that the Armenian identity endures while adapting to modern realities.

Through these sister organizations, the ARF amplifies its mission to serve and strengthen Armenians everywhere, embodying the spirit of collective action and national pride.