Our goal was to gather news, information about community projects and general information about the region while teaching how to write business and community development plans. Using templates we provided, community leaders were asked to organize their stories to draw attention to local efforts and potentially attract the attention of international donors. After compiling the information, we created an English version to circulate to the international community via e-mail. We prepared an Armenian translation for distribution by hard copy. Only in this way could we reach all 17 communities in the Martuni region.
Phone lines are poor and computers with modems are scarce and tightly controlled.
Almost without exception, people in the regions must travel to Yerevan if they want to send or receive e-mail. The center served as a place for people to bring their plans and materials for the bulletin. The electronic distribution list expanded and within a few months we attracted sponsorship for our efforts and funding to print a local edition. Within five months, we had more than 100 electronic subscribers. The newsletter also highlighted ongoing projects like Junior Achievement's economic and civics classes, and Internews sponsorship of a local television station.