Los Angeles, CA – The Armenian National Committee – Western Region (ANC-WR) is set to welcome long time supporter and activist Ashkhen Pilavjian to receive the Legacy Award at its 24th Annual Banquet for her years of dedication to the organization. The ANC-WR’s Annual Banquet will be held on October 12, 2008, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley.

Pilavjian has attended many of the previous banquets, however especially recalls last year’s where Senator Bob Menendez received the Man of the Year award for his tireless efforts to place a hold on Genocide denier Richard Hoagland’s nomination as the next U.S. Ambassador to Armenia. To thank him for his unwavering support of the Armenian American community over the years, Pilavjian hosted an event for Senator Menendez in 2007 at her house.

Pilavjian was introduced to the community after her marriage to Alexan Pilavjian who was very involved and played soccer with Homenetmen. As a result, the passion to serve the community was instilled in Ashkhen as well. Over the years, Pilavjian has vigorously volunteered with several Armenian organizations including the Western Prelacy, Armenian Cultural Foundation, Armenian National Committee, Homenetmen, Armenian Relief Society as well as many Armenian Schools. Her diligent efforts are truly admirable and she has been instrumental in support of the community’s growth. In an interview with Pilavjian she expressed that her hope is for all Armenians who are well to do, contribute to Armenian American organizations as best they can. She says, “This said, donations are not the only way people can get involved; there is plenty of hands on work to be done and the ANC is the portal in which to do it through!”

“Each and every one of us has to do our share in preserving the Armenian community in the United States and all around the world,” expressed Pilavjian. “If every individual contributes some time and energy we can go very far and I believe that everybody should lend a hand in public service,” she added.

Pilavjian began her volunteer work at a young age and hopes to see more and more Armenian youth contributing their time to the cause. “I encourage all young Armenian Americans to get involved in the ANC,” stated Pilavjian. “This is the best grassroots organization! The future generation has a megaphone in hand– ready to be heard from local government all the way to the State Department and the Oval Office,” she exclaimed.

Individuals interested in attending the ANC-Western Region banquet are encouraged to contact ANC-WR Banquet Coordinator Aida Dimejian at (818) 500-1918 or visit www.itsmyseat.com to purchase tickets. The banquet is slated to begin at 5:30 p.m. Organizers of this event expect that it will be sold out well before September 15th.

The Armenian National Committee – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANC-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Photo caption: Ashkhen Pilavjian