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Homenetmen

About

FOSTERING UNITY, CULTURE, AND ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE SINCE 1918

Early Years

Our History

Founded in 1918 in Constantinople, Homenetmen emerged as a vital sanctuary for Armenians, especially those deeply affected by the Armenian Genocide. As refugees, including many orphans, sought solace in Constantinople, Homenetmen extended its arms, offering not just physical relief but also a sense of belonging and community. The organization's scouts played a crucial role in caring for over 1,500 refugees, many of whom were orphaned children. This nurturing environment fostered a deep sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, leading members to affectionately address each other as "yeghpayr" and "kouyr", meaning brother and sister in Armenian. This tradition, rooted in the organization's early history of compassion and unity, continues to this day, symbolizing the close-knit bond between Homenetmen members.

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A WORLDWIDE COMMUNITY

Homenetmen Today

Today Homenetmen continues to serve its mission of promoting Armenian culture, identity, and sports worldwide. With over 25,000 members in 24 countries, Homenetmen organizes various cultural, social, and athletic events, including scouting camps, tournaments, and festivals. The organization also provides opportunities for young Armenians to learn Armenian language and history, fostering a sense of community and pride in their heritage.



 

In recent years, Homenetmen has also expanded its reach through technology, utilizing social media and online platforms to connect with its members and supporters. The organization has adapted to the changing times, embracing new forms of communication and outreach while maintaining its commitment to preserving and promoting Armenian culture. Homenetmen remains a vital part of the Armenian diaspora, a beacon of unity and strength for the community.

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HOMENETMEN SAN FRANCISCO

Our Chapter

Homenetmen San Francisco Chapter has a long and proud history of serving the Armenian community in Northern California. Since our founding in 1971, we have grown to become the largest Armenian youth organization in the region, with over 250 members participating in our programs and activities. Over the years Homenetmen San Francisco has organized and participated in numerous cultural, athletic, and social events, including the San Diego Basketball Tournament, the Fresno Basketball Tournament, and the Navasartian Regional Athletic Tournament. We have also sent delegations to the Pan-Homenetmen Jamboree in Armenia and the Homenetmen Regional Scout Jamboree.

Our Programs

At Homenetmen San Francisco, we believe that involvement in community events and activities is a vital part of being a responsible and engaged member. There are many ways to get involved with our organization, whether you are an athlete, a scout, a parent, or simply someone who wants to contribute to our mission. 

Athletics

Our athletics teams compete locally and across the state, and are open to all agenes and skill levels.

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Scouting

Our scouting program teaches valuable life skills and values through outdoor activities, leadership training, and community service.

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Our Leadership

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Vahan Derounian

Chairman

Vahan Derounian has been a proud member of the San Francisco Homenetmen Chapter since 1976 as a scout and basketball player. Due to his accountability and awareness of the profound responsibility of Homenetmen, he has held a number of positions within athletics & social committees. Through the financial committee, Vahan has also been able to make financial contributions to the chapter. He has devoted many years to serving on the executive committee as Chairman and Vice Chairman. Homenetmen has held a significant role in his life, where the motto ""Rise, and raise others with you"" has enhanced his understanding of brotherhood, humanity and friendship. ​ His scouting days and participation in the Olympic games hold a special place in his heart, as do his friends and leaders from Homenetmen. It is with their mentorship that Vahan has been able to move up the ranks of Homenetmen. "" Be an exemplary Homenetmen member, athlete or scout, learn and pass your knowledge on to the next generations"", says Vahan to future scouts and athletes of tomorrow.

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Anie Tazian 

Tresurer

A third-generation Homenetmen member, Anie has been deeply connected to the organization from a young age, participating as an athlete in her youth. Her journey continued when she joined the San Francisco chapter in 2014, initially as a volunteer coach for her daughter's basketball team. In 2023, her dedication led her to join the executive board, where she now brings both personal and professional commitment to the organization’s growth and success.

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Taveen

Board Member

Taveen serves on our board and has been an indispensable member for years.

Tom Leist

Athletics Director

Tom has been an SF chapter member since 2011. In his time as a member, he has served on the chapter's Athletic Committee, as chapter Secretary, and as chapter Athletic Director.

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Zepyur Kasparian

Scouts Representative

Zepyur Kasparian has been a member of Homenetmen through scouting for a decade. She has served as the Scouts Representative for the past two years. Among her cherished memories are Jamboree in 2018 and festive Christmas parties, which she feels reflect the spirit and community of Homenetmen. Zepyur hopes to enhance the chapter's scouting program by fostering meaningful connections between youth and the values of scouting.

Join Homenetmen San Francisco

If you're interested in becoming a member, we welcome you to visit our membership page to learn more about our programs and how to join. Our programs are open to Armenian youth between the ages of 6-18, and we welcome all skill levels and backgrounds. We also offer volunteer opportunities for adults who are interested in getting involved and making a difference in our community.

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Homenetmen SF
Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with Homenetmen SF and community events.

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