The Organization of Istanbul Armenians (OIA) of Los Angeles was established in 1976 within the walls of St. Sarkis Church by a group of patriotic and innovative young Istanbul Armenians. The Organization’s main goals and objectives are the following:

1. To preserve the Armenian heritage, traditions, and culture through its literature, education, sports, and other benevolent methods.
2. To provide scholarships to Armenian students and encourage their desires to continue with their higher education.
3. To encourage athletic endeavors.
4. To provide aid for Armenian families, students, and individuals through the assistance of advising, monetary aid, securing jobs, and help in translating and interpreting from the Armenian to English language.
5. To encourage the further flourishing of Armenian literature through publications in Armenian and English.

OIA History Presentation (2012)