Distributions in Armenia


Distribution Methods


SOAR assists the orphanages of Armenia through 3 primary mechanisms. First, we work with for-profit corporations to provide donations of specific products. These goods are then shipped by SOAR to Armenia, at which point our Partners receive the goods and make the appropriate distributions.

Second, we receive new and used goods from donors and ship them to Armenia. Our Partners in Armenia receive the goods and make the appropriate distributions.

Third, we receive cash donations, from individual donors and from foundations, to purchase goods and services for the orphanages. Some of these products may need to be purchased outside of Armenia and shipped to our Partners. It is our hope, however, that most of the goods and services can be purchased in Armenia. This method of procurement will serve the dual role of satisfying the orphanages' needs while simultaneously providing a much needed boost to the Armenian economy. Our Partners are responsible for either receiving goods purchased by SOAR or procuring the items and services for SOAR and subsequently making the distributions.

Distributions in 2006

Distributions in 2007

Distributions in 2008

Distributions in 2009

Distributions in 2010

Distributions in 2011
 

Quality Control


SOAR imposes a strict quality control protocol to assure that all goods and services allocated for orphanages reach our target population. This protocol has 5 primary steps:

  1. We rarely make cash distributions directly to the orphanages. Rather, those goods and services that can be procured in Armenia are purchased by our Partners and distributed directly to the orphanages.

  2. We implement chain of custody procedures for any goods or services distributed to the orphanages. This assures us that these items have been received by our target population. These chain of custody procedures have three (3) sub-steps:

    • Our Partners sign for, and attest to, the type and quantity of goods and services received. This invoice includes an exact description of the type and quantity of goods distributed and services provided.
    • The orphanage directors sign this same invoice, indicating that the exact type and quantity of goods and services they received is the quantity indicated on the invoice.
    • Both invoices are mailed to the National SOAR President for our permanent records.

  3. Our Partners, Yerevan Chapter members, and other volunteers who visit Armenia make random inspections of the orphanages to assure that a reasonable quantity of goods remains. We recognize that this step may be difficult with certain products (e.g., diapers). With other products (e.g., mattresses), the original quantity should remain long after the distribution. Discrepancies are reported immediately to the National SOAR President. To date, no discrepancies have ever been reported.

  4. When possible, goods donated or services provided by SOAR are engraved and/or stamped with a corporate seal. This type of identification is particularly feasible with non-perishable items, such as appliances, beds, books, and desks and chairs. Major projects are acknowledged with a SOAR dedication plaque.

  5. We implement a zero-tolerance policy for fraud, theft, and/or deception. In the event a discrepancy arises, these orphanages will no longer be eligible for our assistance.