20 Years of Impact: the Urban Foundation’s Milestone Anniversary
In 2024 we commemorated a significant milestone, the 20th anniversary of the Urban Foundation for Sustainable Development (the Urban Foundation) distinguished by two decades of dedicated service, impactful projects, and unwavering commitment to foster sustainable and harmonious development across Armenian communities.
Established in April 2004, the Urban Foundation emerged from the dedicated team of the Urban Institute (Washington D.C.) that successfully implemented the USAID-funded Earthquake Zone Recovery Project from 2000 to 2004, providing housing solutions to approximately 7,000 earthquake-displaced households.
Our journey reveals a progression marked by innovation, collaboration, and tangible results. Looking back, several key achievements stand out. We have successfully implemented over 100 projects focused on infrastructure, policy, legislation improvement, enhancing access to essential community services and improving the quality of life for numerous citizens. Our initiatives in community development and capacity building have empowered local residents to actively participate in shaping their neighborhoods, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Our work in architectural-cultural heritage preservation has safeguarded historical sites and fostered a deeper appreciation for Armenia’s rich cultural legacy.
The Urban Foundation’s approach has always been rooted in a deep understanding of the unique context of Armenian communities. We have prioritized evidence-based planning, utilizing data and research to inform our strategies and ensure the long-term sustainability of our projects. We have also emphasized collaborative partnerships, working closely with government agencies, local municipalities, international organizations, and civil society groups to maximize our impact.
The figures speak for themselves. Over the past twenty years, through the implementation of more than 100 projects, the Urban Foundation has significantly impacted the lives of over 300,000 individuals, in all 10 regions and Yerevan, in over 150 settlements of 45 multi-settlement communities.
This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support and collaboration of our valued partners. We extend our deepest gratitude to our donors (government, international organizations, individual benefactors and private sector), whose generous contributions have enabled us to bring our vision to life. We are also thankful to our Advisory Board, whose expertise and guidance have shaped our strategic directions, and to our dedicated staff and Board of Trustees, whose tireless efforts and commitment have driven our achievements. Together, we will continue to build vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities for generations to come. Our work is far from complete.
This 20th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past achievements, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to the future. As we look towards the future, we remain committed to addressing the evolving challenges of community development and good governance in Armenia.