Armarian, a recent graduate of Hillsborough High School, is set to begin his college journey at Saint Leo University this fall. His story is one of dedication, growth, and the power of community support, embodied by his long-standing connection with The Skills Center. Since middle school, Armarian has been involved with The Skills Center, and this summer, he returned as Jr. Staff for their sports camps, exemplifying his commitment and responsibility.

This summer, The Skills Center proudly supported Armarian as he prepared for a remarkable opportunity: competing at the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) conference in Seattle. Armarian’s journey to this national stage was a testament to his hard work and the unwavering support of his community.

In Armarian’s Words

“I’m very grateful for the people I had back at home. My family and the family I found at The Skills Center helped me while I was gone. My mom made sure to call me every day and check to see how things were going. When I was doing something FCCLA-related, she’d encourage me to try my best and make sure I was making the most out of my experience.

Not everyone is provided with these types of opportunities, so I took full advantage of that liberty. I got to explore the city and try different foods. The folks at The Skills Center helped me make ends meet. They gave me enough money to do things like visit the Space Needle and Chihuly Art Museum.

If they hadn’t provided for me, I might’ve been bored and starving. Even more than that, they took me shopping to get all the clothing I needed while out there. I was underestimating the cost of it all and wouldn’t have gotten what I needed had it not been for them. My success is largely due to the emotional and fiscal assistance everyone gave me.

My competitive nature won’t allow me to be content with coming up a little short, but I have to look beyond that. My experience and the people I got closer with along the way are worth more than the medal I would’ve received. When I was out, I repped my state proudly. I’d always answer loud and proud when asked where I was from, and I’d make sure to wear my Skills Center merch when going out. My trip to Seattle was one of joy and valuable lessons.”

Empowering the Next Generation

Armarian’s experience in Seattle was transformative. Competing in FCCLA—a national organization that fosters youth leadership through family and consumer sciences—taught him invaluable lessons about the standards of excellence required at the national level. Though he initially joined for scholarships and the allure of a free trip, the program’s values quickly became his own. Through dedication and guidance from his teachers, Armarian found himself excelling in the “Job Interview” division, ultimately winning silver at the national competition.

His journey didn’t just end with the competition. It was enriched by the experiences and connections he made, supported every step of the way by The Skills Center. Armarian’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of community support and the importance of providing opportunities for youth to grow and succeed.

As we continue to nurture the next generation of leaders like Armarian, your support is crucial. By contributing to The Skills Center, you are creating more opportunities for young people to thrive, just as Armarian has. Together, we can ensure that stories like his are not the exception, but the rule. Let’s invest in our youth and their futures.

Donate today and be a part of their journey.