Sarah Stites

This month, I’m celebrating my 7th anniversary of living in Armenia—a journey that began in 2018 when I first volunteered at Emili Aregak in Gyumri.

From day one, I was inspired by the center’s dedicatiion to improving the lives of children with disabilities through therapy, social inclusion, skill-building, and creating opportunities for meaningful work. I had the privilege of witnessing the opening of Aregak Bakery, a beautiful space that provides jobs and dignity to people with disabilities.

Today, I’m proud to serve as the Program Director of Ayo!, a platform that empowers communities across Armenia—one impactful project at a time. Right now, Ayo! is raising funds to support Aregak’s psychologists as they work with parents of children with disabilities, helping them navigate the emotional challenges of caregiving.

In honor of this milestone in my life, I’m inviting you to celebrate with me by donating to this cause that’s so close to my heart. We each support Armenia in our own way—mine was moving here and building my life and professional mission here; yours might be a donation, advocacy, or simply spreading the word. However you choose to help, it all matters.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me on my journey!