August 3, 2026

SGS 2025 Grantee: New Generation, New Future Youth NGO, Lori Region, Armenia

Project: Healthy Childhood: to improve the lives of children with special needs and their caretakers in impoverished areas of the rural Lori region.

When 5-year-old Levon with autism first came to our centre in Lori, he rarely spoke to anyone outside his family. Living in a village and facing developmental challenges, he spent most of his days at home. His mother often worried about his future and wondered whether Levon would ever be able to communicate confidently, make friends, or participate in community life.

Like many families in the region, Levon’s parents had limited access to specialised services. As a result, the world of most of the children like Levon became smaller and smaller, while his parents felt increasingly isolated.

Everything began to change when the family joined the programmes of New Generation, New Future Youth. Through regular developmental sessions, creative activities, and the newly established sensory-adaptive room, Levon was given a safe environment where he could learn, explore, and express himself without fear.

At first, progress was slow. During the first weeks, Levon preferred to sit alone and avoided eye contact. However, with patience, professional support, and encouragement from staff and volunteers, he gradually began participating in activities. The sensory room became his favourite place, helping him manage anxiety and build confidence.

Months later, Levon surprised everyone during a group activity when he voluntarily joined other children in a game. Soon afterward, he began initiating conversations and sharing his ideas. For the first time, he participated in a community celebration.

The transformation was not limited to Levon. His mother attended parenting workshops organised by the project and learned practical techniques to support her son’s development at home. She also met other parents facing similar challenges and realised that she was not alone.

“Before this project, I was afraid of what the future would bring for my son. Today, I see him smiling, communicating, and believing in himself. I have hope again,” his mother shared.

Levon’s story reflects the broader impact of the project. Through the support of donors and partners, 40 children with disabilities and developmental difficulties in Lori Region gained access to educational, developmental, and psychosocial support services. Parents developed new skills and stronger support networks, while children experienced inclusion, friendship, and opportunities that were previously unavailable to them.

For New Generation, New Future Youth, success is measured not only by numbers but by the lives transformed. Every child who finds confidence, every parent who regains hope, and every family that feels included represents a step toward a stronger and more inclusive future for Lori’s communities. The project contributes to wider efforts across Lori to improve youth and child development opportunities and strengthen community participation.

Beyond the immediate results, the project helped build a more inclusive community where children with disabilities are seen, valued, and given opportunities to thrive. The sensory-adaptive room created through the grant will continue serving children in the future, ensuring that the impact of the BEARR Trust’s investment extends well beyond the grant period.

For New Generation, New Future Youth, this project demonstrated how targeted support, community involvement, and partnership with The BEARR Trust Small Grants Scheme can create lasting change in the lives of vulnerable children and their families in Lori Region. Through this support, children gained new opportunities, parents found renewed hope, and communities moved one step closer to inclusion for all.

Because every child deserves not only support for today, but also the opportunity to build a better tomorrow.

Contact

Ani Margaryan

Head of NGO

New Generation, New Future Youth NGO, Lori Region, Armenia

Email: anikkan1617@gmail.com