This week IREX celebrated International Education Week. Like so many other organizations around the world, we organized a number of events in which both IREX alumni and the general public could participate. One such event was a visit to the Nork Marash retirement home - a government funded home that houses around 220 elderly folk. Now you may ask - why would elderly folk be placed in such a home when Armenians place such an importance on taking care of each other until death?

Well we asked. There are those that have no family left; some who no longer have family in Armenia; those who are in bad relations with their children; refugees; and others. We initially met with the Director and spoke of the difficulties and challenges of running a home. We also toured the building which was surprisingly in good shape. Each room included two beds and a separate bathroom. All rooms were in great "remonted" shape and the bathrooms were better than what you typically see. My only true complaint might be that the hallways are FREEZING... and it is only November. I dare not imagine how cold it gets in the midst of winter.

The purpose of our visit was to introduce the concept of community service to younger Armenians. We had purchased nardi (backgammon) boards, chess boards, checkers, cards, and dominos to donate to the home. For almost two hours, we split ourselves throughout three floors and played games amongst each other. Many of the "retired" were lecturing the younger high school students on the importance of education and discipline. It was nice watching their interactions. As for the games -let's just say the residents had the home advantage and creamed us all.

All in all we met really wonderful people. IREX is already planning on making a return and in the meanwhile running some sort of clothing drive. Blankets are always useful!