Long before Pittsburgh started charting high on those
desirable cities lists, some visitors were aware of its potential charms.
Thirty-five years ago, Richard Parsakian came to Pittsburgh from his native Latham,
New York as a Vista Volunteer in its architect’s workshop. He came to provide architectural services for
low income families and nonprofits. “The idea that I could contribute and help,
this was very important to me in terms of my volunteerism,” Richard emphasizes.
Richard decided to stay, and now he uses his study of architecture to provide
event designs for nonprofits.
“I believe in the organizations I do work for. I believe in
trying to help those organizations survive. They need funding and I have a
talent that can help with that funding. I use the resources I have to help
people,” Richard explains. A former
board member of Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force, he still does work for them on a
project by project basis. Other organizations that have benefitted from Richard’s
vision include PrideFest, Pittsburgh
Dance Council, Persad Center, Pittsburgh Glass Center, Dance Alloy, Attack
Theater, Quantum Theater, Planned Parenthood, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, and the
Ellsworth Avenue Street Fair.
Larry Leahy, DDS, a friend who nominated Richard for this
award, says, “Richard is truly inspirational and is a tremendous asset to the city.
He works endlessly for the betterment of all communities in Pittsburgh. He is
tireless in his organization of countless benefits and fundraisers.”
The self-described “center of my universe” is Richard’s
vintage fashion store, Eons. He says, “It seems that everything I do emanates
from the store. There I meet the people from nonprofit organizations when they
stop in for clothes and costumes for an event. It starts with that and I’m glad
to supply further help.”
“I am moved to receive the Dignity & Respect Champion
award,” Richard says. He continues, “It’s an unexpected honor. It parallels my
thinking in how I treat people and how I want to be treated. I like to think of
myself as a supportive person for people who don’t have a strong voice. As an
openly gay man, I have always been there as a voice for the LGBT community. Now
I’m also acknowledged as an advocate for women who need access to healthcare,
kids who are coming out, and the arts community.”
Richard believes that treating people with esteem can help
bring communities together, regardless how separate their subcultures might
seem. He describes how he saw a manifestation
of this at his popular “Divas of Drag” event, “I looked out into a mixed
audience and saw performers whose talents had been hidden in bars interacting
with a new audience. There was a community of people having a great time in a
non-threatening environment, a wonderful atmosphere of performance and
acceptance between gay and straight cultures.”
