At Armenia Tree Project, we often say that to plant a tree is to believe in the future. For more than ten years, Haykazunyadz Armenian School has been living that belief in small, steady ways.

Our connection began through the “Building Bridges” program, where students learn about the environment and help plant trees in Armenia. What started as a small effort grew naturally into part of the school’s routine. The children understand that learning Armenian language and history is only one part of being Armenian. Caring for Armenia itself is just as important.

Principal Satenik Ter-Grigoryan plays a central role in shaping this attitude. She encourages students to respect nature not only in words, but in action. Through classroom lessons and simple hikes outdoors, she shows them that protecting the environment is something everyone can do.

Over the years, Haykazunyadz has expanded from its original Saturday program to include multiple preschool campuses in Tujunga, North Hollywood, and Sun Valley, and now a full elementary school serving students through 6th grade.

The school’s fundraising efforts are creative and hands-on. In one memorable event, teachers and even young students became “parking lot police,” giving friendly tickets to parents who forgot safety rules. The small fines collected were used to plant trees in Armenia. The event was fun, but the lesson was clear: taking care of others and taking care of the homeland go together.

Haykazunyadz also encourages giving in quiet, thoughtful ways. Instead of gifts or flowers, families are invited to honor teachers by planting trees in Armenia. Each tree grows as a sign of gratitude and connection.

For Haykazunyadz, helping Armenia is part of everyday life. Year after year, students, teachers, and families take part, showing children that being Armenian means caring and giving.

Thanks to the Armenia Tree Project team, including West Coast Outreach Manager, Anahit and other staff, students have been inspired to connect more deeply with Armenia and the environment.

Donate today — every gift helps students, schools, and forests in Armenia grow and thrive.