The AGBU Glendale-Pasadena Chapter (AGBU-GPC) is a community center, located in the City of Roses--Pasadena, California.  The Center operates under the umbrella of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (www.agbu.org), which being the largest non-profit, Armenian organization in the world, has worked steadfastly to preserve Armenian Culture, Heritage, and Language through local and international programs, since 1906.  The AGBU-GPC's mission is to serve the Southern Californian, Armenian community throughout the entire year, by offering a diverse array of events and programs for all age groups.

AGBU-GPC activities include an AYA Athletics Program, for students and young adults of all ages.  In fact, there are athletes at the AGBU-GPC full-size gym, seven days a week.  Every year, these AGBU-GPC athletes travel internationally to participate in tournaments with other AGBU chapters all around the world.  Additionally, the AGBU-GPC athletes participate in local tournaments against schools and other Armenian churches and organizations every few months.

Over 125 Boy and Girl Scouts come to the AGBU-GPC, every Saturday, to participate in the AYA Scouting Program’s weekly Havak.  The AGBU-GPC’s scouting program follows the guidelines set by both the Boy Scouts of America® and Girl Scouts of the USA® organizations. AGBU-GPC scouts participate in a biennial Panagoum, in Armenia, with other AGBU scouts from around the world.  Each summer, the AGBU-GPC Scouts go camping, in California, as well.  The AGBU-GPC Scouts proudly elevate members from their Girl and Boy Scout programs to the coveted level of Gold Award and Eagle Scout, each year.

The AGBU-GPC also hosts theatrical productions, twice a year.  Whether the marquee reads the title of a modern production or a well-known classic, the AGBU-GPC is always abuzz with talented Armenian actors who attract between 1500 and 2000 theatergoers with every production.  

Each Friday, members of the AGBU family, young and old, gather at the outdoor Bardez for a home-cooked meal and fresh pressed sandwiches.  This is a casual time of fellowship where everyone can come together and unwind from the work week.  Once a month, this Friday, Family Night takes on a theme, ranging from Japanese Night to Greek Night and Mexican Night to Hawaiian Night, where nearly 400 individuals come to partake in the food of a different culture, and enjoy entertainment representing the theme of the evening.

Throughout the year, the AGBU-GPC Committee also organizes art exhibits, featuring talented Armenian artists and photographers, some local, and some from other parts of the world.  The Committee also organizes informative and educational lectures, book signings, and movie nights, in order to expose its local members to a diverse array of cultural expression borne within the International Armenian Community.

Buffet-style Middle Eastern breakfasts are a common favorite event at the AGBU-GPC.  Whether the purpose is fundraising or to get together to watch a big game, the AGBU family always finds a way to come together at the AGBU-GPC. 

No matter where you come from, the AGBU Glendale-Pasadena Center is a place you can always feel at home.  We invite you to come take part in our activities and events at the AGBU-GPC.  For more information on how to get involved, please contact us at: agbu_aya@sbcglobal.net.