Mission Statement:
“To inspire moments of optimism and happiness – one child, one family, and a community.” –Mimi Melkonian
On August 31, 2016, a group of Syrian Refugee families and children gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of New York, and spent a day full of joy and happiness.
The Museum president, Daniel Weiss, welcomed the group. He introduced a collection of art, spanning 5,000 years and honored worldwide cultures and civilizations.
Following the president’s opening remarks, fine artist, Azi Amiri led the children to the Islamic galleries, where they pressed clay against ancient bas-relief walls to capture textures. They drew observed details to understand patterns and themes. Senior Production Coordinator, Rebecca Shear, archived the day in photographs. Fine artist and Metropolitan Museum Curatorial Assistant, Harout Artin Simonian ushered parents and babies on an exciting museum tour that spanned from the Temple of Dendur, in the ancient Egyptian collection to the Fashion Institute’s limited-time Manus vs. Machinas exhibit. Deputy Chief Development Officer for The Fund for the Met, Amy Amy O’Reilly Rizzi and Metropolitan Museum Chief Audience Development Officer, Donna Williams, stayed back in the Uris Center to help me prepare a welcome-back reception.
Adults and children reconvened in the Uris Center for a send-off ceremony. When Ann Nicol, Executive Director of the UNA-NY, addressed the group, she expressed compassion, support and well-wishes for the families. Ms. Nicol presented each child with backpacks filled with school supplies. Afterward, Kim Tamalonis presented the kids with bags of art supplies. Kim did a phenomenal work to create this incredible day full of joy and happiness.
That day I worked with the Syrian Refugee children, and the Metropolitan Museum guides to translate and facilitate this sensational venue that was initiated by Kim Tamalonis!
The Shade Orchid 