Elegant Afternoon Tea for ARS Vision 2020


A group of Afternoon Tea event attendees and fascinators at Donalda Club, Oct. 21st, Toronto.

By: Roubina Yeghoyan


The ARS Roubina Chapter of Toronto and ARS Vision 2020 Committee hosted an elegant afternoon tea fundraiser on Sunday, October 21st, in support of the ARS Central Executive Endowment Fund.

The ARS Endowment fund seeks to provide funding for existing ARS projects and for new opportunities that expand the cultural and educational initiatives of the organization. Currently, the Fund is at two and a half million dollars. The goal is to reach five million by 2020 through various global fundraising events, such as the tea function organized in Toronto.

The Endowment Fund is growing annually through generous contributions of all sizes and from all levels of the ARS organization. Interest income from the Endowment Fund is allocated to all ARS global initiatives implemented and run by the ARS. The high tea fundraiser met the goal of raising over $20,000, which will be directed to various educational, humanitarian and social undertakings.

The fundraiser took place at the charming Donalda Club, under the support of major sponsor Armenouhi Kololian and the leadership of event chair Arpi Babikian, ARS Vision 2020 chair Nairy Shahinian and Varsenig Sarkissian, a Central Executive board member. A team of ARS members worked very hard in making the event a successful one.   

Approximately one hundred and fifty guests—members and friends of the Armenian Relief Society— enjoyed breathtaking views of the city’s autumnal splendour as they mingled in the historic country club.

MC Tamar Matossian introduced the delightful guest speaker, Marilyn Mirabelli— a Victorian tea expert—who explained interesting tidbits of high tea traditions as guests enjoyed an assortment of finger sandwiches, pastries and a selection of fine teas.

Mineh Dzadourian performs two songs during the Afternoon Tea event.

Toronto-native Mineh Satourian performed two songs, captivating listeners with heart-warming Armenian and French melodies. Guests were later entertained by interactive games and a diverse silent auction.

The memorable event truly elevated everyone’s spirits and succeeded in contributing towards the ARS Vision 2020, which will aid existing projects and undoubtedly open the door to exciting, new opportunities.