Love Conquers Women’s Luncheon against Domestic Violence

BURBANK, Calif. - April 4, 2013 - PRLog -- Datev Outreach
3325 N. Glenoaks Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91504
(855) DATEV-77
info@datevoutreach.org

Contact: Dr. Anna Gasparian, anna@datevoutreach.org

Love Conquers Women’s Luncheon against Domestic Violence

Gor Mkhitarian and Ara Dabanjian headline event; Chris Brown art work on display

Burbank, California – “Love Conquers” is the theme of the first annual Women’s luncheon, sponsored by Datev Outreach, on Saturday, April 13 at the Brandview Ballroom in Glendale.

Datev Outreach, is the newly formed office under the auspices of the His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the Primate of the Western Diocese, addressing issues of domestic violence. Since January of this year, Datev Outreach has been offering referrals and counseling services. Most importantly, as the name “Datev” implies, it embraces families affected by domestic violence, by assessing and guiding the course from victim to victor through spiritual healing in Christ Jesus.

“Love Conquers” is a luncheon aimed at increasing awareness within the community to the alarming problem of domestic violence. The luncheon and program will feature a keynote address by Linda Maxwell, community philanthropist and founder of “We Care for Youth.” Ms. Maxwell has committed her life to the betterment of the community. She has been a long-time supporter and advocate for youth programs, particularly within the Armenian communities in the Southland. She was instrumental in developing the In His Shoes Ministry with a group of Armenian Youth in 2003. Her story and message will be sure to drive home the necessity and importance of spiritual means to address acts of violence.

Artist/musicians Gor Mkhitarian and Ara Dabandjian will offer live performances. Both entertainers have a history of accenting their talents with causes for social responsibility.  Accordingly, they are both donating their talents to insure the success of the event. The live-performance premiere of “New Life” by Gor Mkhitarian will take place at the event. Mkhitarian wrote this song specifically in response to the domestic violence issues within the Armenian community.

Event organizer and committee chairman, Ani Torosyan is optimistic about the work ahead. “Domestic violence is a problem that has long been ignored and denied especially in the Armenian community,” says Torosyan. “We are here to strip away the veil that hides the violence and the hurt. This can only be done when we admit to the problem and accept our responsibility for a solution.”

Since its inception, Datev Outreach has provided community awareness programs. It has organized two major “Walks against Domestic Violence” through the neighborhoods of Glendale and Burbank. It has provided brochures and presentations about different types of violence against family members. Outreach services have collected toys and donations for families affected by domestic violence. Counseling services are offered, including a program to train telephone personnel. Most recently, Datev Outreach has set up free-of-charge empowerment classes for qualifying women. Classes include  learning computer skills, basic financial procedures and establishing and operating businesses.

Recently, entertainer Chris Brown completed hours of his court mandated community service through Datev Outreach. During that time, Chris Brown was inspired to produce four canvases of art which will soon be auctioned for the benefit of Datev Outreach.

According to Datev Outreach founder, Fr. Vazken Movsesian, “Ours is a holistic approach, as Christ himself taught us, to heal the sick and to mend the brokenhearted and to proclaim the power of love over evil.”

“Love Conquers” at the Brandview Ballroom takes place on Saturday, April 13, at 11:00AM. The $55/donation includes: lunch, keynote address, musical entertainment and an opportunity to be one of the early supporters of a program that is sure to bring much needed healing to a community plagued by violence. All proceeds benefit Datev Outreach.

For tickets or further information call toll-free (855)-DATEV-77 or write info@datevoutreach.org.

http://datevoutreach.org

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Contact:
Dr. Anna Gasparian, Executive Coordinator
(855) DATEV-77
anna@datevoutreach.org

Photos:

Artist Chris Brown painting outside the St. Peter Armenian Church in Glendale

Artist Chris Brown at the Diocesan Headquarters with Anna Gasparian, Ani Torosyan and Fr. Vazken Movsesian