Encino, CA – The Armenian Cultural Foundation (ACF) proudly announces the commencement of construction on the highly anticipated Encino Community Center—a transformative project set to become a vibrant hub for cultural and community engagement.
The center will be housed in the historic former Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Station 83, a property owned by the City of Los Angeles and secured by ACF through a 30-year lease agreement. This milestone marks the culmination of a decade-long effort that began in 2013, spearheaded by the ANCA San Fernando Valley-West Chapter and a dedicated team of leaders, including Chairman Nareg S. Kitsinian, Esq., and board members Talar Dardarian, Tonya Barseghian, Esq., Nora Demirjian, Esq., Shant H. Hagopian, Esq., John Tashtchian, Koko Alexanian, and Raffi Sarkissian.
Over the past year, ACF West San Fernando Valley board members Raffi Sarkissian, Chairman, and Shant Hagopian, Esq. have worked diligently to secure the necessary approvals from federal, state, and city authorities. Given the property’s historical landmark status, the team has carefully ensured compliance with strict preservation guidelines to maintain the building’s architectural integrity.
To oversee the construction bidding process, a committee of esteemed community members—including Peklar Pilavjian, Serop Beylerian, Steve Dadaian, Shant Hagopian, and Raffi Sarkissian—was established over a year ago. After a thorough evaluation, the committee awarded the construction contract to The Nazerian Group, led by President Vartan Nazerian—a respected expert in Los Angeles city property, historical preservation, and property development, as well as a longtime supporter of the Armenian community.
The Armenian Cultural Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to the City of Los Angeles’ past and present officials and departments for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality. Special thanks are also extended to Congressman Brad Sherman, whose efforts helped secure a $1.2 million federal grant to support the construction.
With construction now officially underway, the ACF Encino Community Center is poised to become a landmark institution—offering cultural enrichment, educational programs, and community-driven initiatives for generations to come.
Armenian Cultural Foundation (West San Fernando Valley)
Board of Directors
