am
“For decades, the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation’s work in Armenia has been guided by the philosophy that sustainable impact comes not from quick fixes, but from addressing root causes and investing in long-term transformative systems change,” explains Health for Armenia (HFA) Board Member, Sara Anjargolian. This guiding principle is now at the heart of a new initiative to revolutionize healthcare in Armenia’s rural areas, as the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to HFA, an organization dedicated to bringing essential primary care services to regions outside Yerevan.
Inspired by the Teach for Armenia model, HFA places clusters of doctors and nurses in remote villages and towns to ensure continuous access to primary healthcare. These healthcare professionals provide essential medical services while also engaging in leadership and ongoing education programs. The aim is to promote healthy living, preventive medicine, and early behavior changes, such as improved nutrition, ultimately leading to longer and healthier lives.
"The funding provided by the Foundation not only enabled the launch of the HFA organization but also kickstarted the beginning of a grassroots healthcare movement focused on primary care reform in Armenia," explains Anjargolian. The grant covers operational costs, training programs, and monthly stipends for the doctors. With the two-month intensive training completed, these healthcare professionals are ready to start their work in November 2024. This initiative aims to build trust within communities and establish a sustainable model for high-quality healthcare across Armenia. "By supporting the people who will drive systems change in healthcare in their own communities, the Foundation is investing in the future well-being of our nation.”
The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation chose to support HFA because of its innovative and systemic approach to healthcare. The Foundation looks for projects with prior experience that are ready to grow, those with a clear institutional approach, and initiatives that operate outside Yerevan. HFA met these criteria, making it an ideal candidate for this grant.
The decision to support HFA was further reinforced by the involvement of several alumni from Hovnanian programs, whose expertise has been critical in shaping HFA’s direction. Sara Anjargolian (former iGorts director and former senior advisor on public sector reform for the Ministry of Health), Roubina Karhili (iGorts alumna and HFA program manager), and Araz Chiloyan (Birthright Armenia and iGorts/Hovnanian alumna and former HFA interim executive director) bring valuable experience and dedication to the project.
"Our summer boot camp, the Healthcare Academy, has already significantly broadened our doctor leaders’ vision of their potential impact within their communities,” explains HFA Executive Director, Lusine Manukyan. “We look forward to the program’s official start in November, which promises even more comprehensive learning and development.”
Dr. Tamara Sargsyan, a participant from the Armavir province, shared her excitement about the Healthcare Academy, noting how it allowed her to discuss diverse topics and understand the importance of being a 'doctor leader.' Similarly, Dr. Inga Akhtieva from Kotayk highlighted the program's impact on her approach to patient care. "I learned about a more conscientious approach to the patient, diagnostic skills, and the importance of medical ethics,” she says. “I am certain the program will improve working conditions, provide new skills training, and introduce changes in the healthcare sector that benefit both doctors and patients."
Armenia has been actively taking steps to improve its primary healthcare system, with the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with international organizations like the WHO and the World Bank, working on comprehensive reforms to enhance the quality and accessibility of primary healthcare across the country. These efforts, which include addressing workforce challenges, improving the quality of care, and implementing digital technologies, are part of a broader commitment to creating a more effective and equitable healthcare system for all its citizens.
In alignment with these national priorities, the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation will focus exclusively on strengthening the primary healthcare system for the third quarter of 2024. This sector-specific approach highlights the importance of preventive and primary care in Armenia. Eligible organizations are invited to apply for grants to enhance the primary healthcare system, with the application deadline set for September 30, 2024.
To find out if your project qualifies for a grant from the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation, complete the Eligibility Quiz on our website. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger Armenia.
***
Since the Foundation’s establishment in 1986, H. Hovnanian Family Foundation has earmarked over $97 million for hundreds of initiatives and projects for charitable, educational, scientific, cultural, and other related purposes with a primary focus on assisting Armenian communities worldwide as well as organizations in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in the state of New Jersey.
