As an active non-governmental organization in Armenia, Trails for Change NGO also experienced a loss in the region as a result of the war. Since 2017, the organization has been actively involved with the redevelopment and maintenance of the only long-distance hiking trail in Artsakh known as the Janapar Trail. Resident families along the trail supported Trails for Change members and volunteers during work performed on the trail and later welcomed and hosted visitors on hiking and biking tours. The support, hospitality, and kindness of the eighteen households could not be forgotten, so Trails For Change organized a fundraiser to directly assist them in their time of need.

The organization’s team members in Armenia reached out to each family to assess their situation and needs. Most families needed financial assistance for housing, utilities, necessary appliances, timber or fuel, food, clothing, livestock feed, transportation, and other basic necessities to survive the winter. A few families also suggested to help others that needed the assistance more than they did, especially those who had lost a family member to the war. Within a short time, Trails for Change raised $17,978 USD and provided temporary assistance for the displaced families.

The organization’s efforts went beyond financial assistance in some cases. Trails for Change members sought additional resources that provided free clothing, medical attention, and, in a few cases, helped a couple of individuals secure employment. Home remodeling assistance was also provided for essential renovations such as window repair, roof repair, or plumbing. Support efforts also included tracking each family’s resettlement progress to provide essential assistance. In one case, Trails for Change members acquired a sewing machine for a woman named Karine so she can start an alteration service in her home. There was also a mother, Gayane, who wanted notebooks, even if they were used, to assist her children with their studies. One by one, each case was addressed, and families were supported by Trails for Change organization members in Armenia.

As an organization that builds trails and teaches local communities in Armenia and Artsakh to become the future stewards of the environment, Trails for Change NGO extended their appreciation to the Janapar Trail families and continues to support them through the aftermath of the war.