AGBU Western Region

AGBU Western Region The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) is the world’s largest non-profit organization.

Our History:

Compelled by a profound sense of national duty, AGBU founder and first President, Boghos Nubar, boldly set out with nine founding members to form an organization to serve all Armenians and preserve the Armenian identity. Since its inception in Cairo, Egypt on April 15, 1906, the organization’s reputation for integrity resonated and AGBU emerged as an unwavering champion of the Armeni

an people throughout the 20th century. A chronicle to the times, AGBU’s efforts supported our people faithfully through a tumultuous history of genocide, natural disasters, repatriation, resettlement, revival and national independence. Thanks to the resolute support of our members and donors, AGBU has flourished into a world-class organization with the resources and goodwill to serve Armenians across the Diaspora and in our homeland. Indebted to the initiative and dedication of our predecessors and recent generations, AGBU’s first century of service has systematically redefined the landscape of the Armenian nation. With an emphasis on educational, cultural and humanitarian programs, AGBU operates worldwide over 69 Districts and Chapters, 47 Community Centers and Offices, and 27 Young Professional Groups; administers 25 day and Saturday schools; and supports a manifold of programs, including the American University of Armenia, Senior Dining Centers (Soup Kitchens), Children’s Centers, Student Scholarships, Summer Camps, Athletics & Scouts, Internship Programs, the Performing Arts and 14 publications in six languages. Having crossed the threshold into the 21st century, AGBU is committed to upholding its legacy of moral and fiduciary obligation to the Armenian people with unparalleled foresight and direction. Rooted in our very origins, AGBU provides educational and cultural opportunities to Armenian youth today, for the benefit of the world community tomorrow.

Take advantage of exclusive hotel rates for AGBU’s 94th General Assembly in Montréal, Canada. Special accommodations are...
06/12/2026

Take advantage of exclusive hotel rates for AGBU’s 94th General Assembly in Montréal, Canada. Special accommodations are available for attendees at Sofitel Montréal Golden Mile and Marriott Montréal Château Champlain. Reserve your room by September 14 to secure these rates. The General Assembly will take place October 15-17, featuring a comprehensive agenda of events and meetings.

Learn more and book your stay at: https://agbu.org/general-assembly

Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes the return of one of our community’s most beloved traditions, BARDEZ. E...
06/12/2026

Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes the return of one of our community’s most beloved traditions, BARDEZ. Each summer, the AGBU Pasadena Glendale Chapter invites the community for evenings filled with great food, live entertainment, and meaningful connection.

Bardez is a celebration of community, friendship, and the joy of reconnecting under the stars. We look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new guests throughout the season as we continue creating memories together.

Reserve your spot for the Season Opener agbu.org/bardez-reserve

Ready, set, run! Hundreds of runners and walkers across the globe will unite in support of AGBU Camp Nairi on Sunday, Se...
06/11/2026

Ready, set, run! Hundreds of runners and walkers across the globe will unite in support of AGBU Camp Nairi on Sunday, September 20th, for our first-ever AGBU Global Run. In cities far and wide, team members will lace up and hit the pavement for a 10K run or 5K walk.

Our AGBU Global Run is dedicated to the youth of tomorrow - the children of Armenia and Artsakh who have endured years of war, loss, displacement, and uncertainty since 2020. Camp Nairi has offered an opportunity for healing, reflection, and mindful integration of children suffering from unthinkable traumas.

✅ Join a team
✅ Run for a cause
🌍 Be part of something global

Are you ready to represent your city and join a team? To learn more and donate, visit: https://agbu.org/global-run-2026

Registration From: https://agbu.org/global-run-2026-registration-form

On June 6,  proudly hosted an Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony recognizing eight outstanding young men who achieved t...
06/10/2026

On June 6, proudly hosted an Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony recognizing eight outstanding young men who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting. Congratulations to Y. Aram Kedeshian, Y. Arek Kedeshian, Y. Alex Oghoorian, Y. Johnny Jemelian, Y. Daron Momjian, Y. Gregory Oghoorian, Y. Nareg Simonian, and Y. Eddy Gumushian on this remarkable accomplishment, which reflects years of dedication, leadership, service, and perseverance.

The ceremony brought together family members, friends, Scouts, Yeretz, and past Eagle Scouts to celebrate this significant milestone. A special thank you to for recognizing the honorees and to Dr. Tom Hartman, Advancement Chair of the Rose Bowl District, for sharing inspiring remarks and words of encouragement.

AGBU Western Region extends its heartfelt congratulations to these exceptional young leaders and looks forward to witnessing their continued contributions within their communities and beyond.

After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the French took control of the region of Cilicia, and a large-scale repatriation c...
06/09/2026

After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the French took control of the region of Cilicia, and a large-scale repatriation campaign was organized to send Armenian refugees back to their hometowns. The return to Cilicia symbolized a potential normalcy for the refugees. AGBU worked to create essential infrastructure for socio-economic growth, establishing schools, medical facilities, and agricultural investments.

Two years later, however, the period of optimism came to an end as Armenians were once again forced to flee Cilicia after the French ceded the region to the nascent Turkish Republic. AGBU leadership reacted quickly, evacuating Armenians and resettling them in Syria and Lebanon.

To learn more about AGBU and its storied history, visit: https://agbu.org/who-we-are

With the fate of the nation in the balance and with widespread assistance serving refugees throughout the Middle East, G...
06/09/2026

With the fate of the nation in the balance and with widespread assistance serving refugees throughout the Middle East, Greece, and Cyprus, AGBU leadership knew that rebuilding thriving, post-war Armenian communities depended on reopening AGBU chapters and developing infrastructure in these areas. By 1919, AGBU chapters in Aleppo, Beirut, Baghdad, Damascus, and Jerusalem were all up and running, ready to provide educational programs and medical assistance as needed.

Link: https://agbu.org/who-we-are

In a beautiful gesture of generosity and community spirit, longtime AGBU member, supporter, and benefactor Diana Ani Sar...
06/04/2026

In a beautiful gesture of generosity and community spirit, longtime AGBU member, supporter, and benefactor Diana Ani Sarkissian graciously hosted a Mother’s Day Luncheon at her home for the Pourasdan ladies, committee members, and dedicated supporters of AGBU.

The gathering provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women who strengthen our families and community while enjoying one another’s company in a warm and welcoming setting.

The  brought the community together for a successful Family Fun Night at the AGBU Quad, creating an evening filled with ...
06/04/2026

The brought the community together for a successful Family Fun Night at the AGBU Quad, creating an evening filled with music, dancing, laughter, and meaningful connections. Families, scouts, and friends enjoyed a festive atmosphere that celebrated the spirit of community and fellowship that defines AGBU. The event provided an opportunity for members of all ages to reconnect, create lasting memories, and enjoy a fun-filled night at their home agoump. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a memorable success.

Victory Park came alive on May 30 as thousands gathered for the 2nd Pasadena Armenian Festival, a vibrant celebration of...
06/04/2026

Victory Park came alive on May 30 as thousands gathered for the 2nd Pasadena Armenian Festival, a vibrant celebration of Armenian culture, heritage, and community spirit. More than 30 Armenian organizations joined forces to create a memorable day featuring live music and dance performances, authentic Armenian cuisine, cultural exhibits, family activities, and over 80 vendors.

The festival opened with a prayer, flag ceremony, and the Armenian and American national anthems, setting the tone for a day filled with pride and unity. AGBU Scouts proudly participated in the flag ceremony, while the AGBU LA Choir and Junior Choir delivered special performances that showcased the richness of Armenian musical tradition. Families and visitors from across Southern California enjoyed a dynamic celebration of Armenian culture, while children participated in dedicated games and activities throughout the day.

AGBU is proud to be a partner organization of this community-wide event and extends its gratitude to the Festival Committee, volunteers, sponsors, performers, vendors, and attendees whose collective efforts made the celebration a tremendous success. The festival served as a powerful reminder of the strength, vibrancy, and enduring spirit of the Armenian community.

The 2026 AGBU Chahen Chamlian Basketball Tournament brought together Armenian youth from across Canada and the United St...
06/04/2026

The 2026 AGBU Chahen Chamlian Basketball Tournament brought together Armenian youth from across Canada and the United States for a memorable weekend of competition, friendship, and community in Montreal. Over four days, 25 games were played across seven age divisions, continuing a tradition that has united young athletes for more than 50 years.

The AGBU Pasadena-Glendale delegation, consisting of 25 athletes, coaches, parents, and supporters, proudly represented Los Angeles while building lasting friendships with fellow participants from Montreal and Toronto. This year’s tournament also honored the legacy of Vahan Kazandjian, with the annual Veterans “Legends Game” officially renamed the Vahan Kazandjian Legends Game in recognition of his enduring contributions to AGBU athletics and youth development.

More than a basketball tournament, the event celebrated the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, cultural pride, and unity that have defined AGBU for generations. The Pasadena-Glendale Chapter extends its sincere gratitude to AGBU Montreal for its outstanding hospitality and organization, and to AGBU Toronto for its spirit of friendship and camaraderie. As the tournament concluded, one message remained clear: our greatest strength lies in our unity.

Address

2495 E Mountain Street
Pasadena, CA
91104

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+16267947942

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