At only 18 years old, Ariana Mooradian  is more than just a YouthCorps member, she is an essential piece of the Red Cross puzzle. Three years ago, as a high school sophomore, Ariana began searching for volunteer opportunities.  She wanted to find an organization she could commit to that also offered various types of volunteer activities.  The American Red Cross YouthCorps offered just that.

“I knew I wouldn’t be stuck doing the same things all the time,” said Ariana.

It was then that Ariana and a friend contacted the Red Cross about starting a YouthCorps group at Mary Institute Country Day School, making her one of the founding members of the MICDS YouthCorps. From the first day, Ariana was ready to be a Red Cross volunteer and leader by giving presentations and educating other area youths.

“I love doing presentations and CPR Saturday work with my peers,” said Ariana. “I think it is important for young people to get information from those in their own age group.”

Since starting in 2004, Ariana has taken a strong leadership role within YouthCorps.  She is a member of the Youth Advisory Board, which plans activities and programs for area YouthCorps members and provides insight on what is important to middle and high school students, and she is one of two YouthCorps members who serve on the St. Louis Area Chapter Board of Directors.

“From day one, Ariana wanted to be a leader and has since been a person we can count on for anything,” said Deane Adam, director of youth services for the St. Louis Area Chapter.

One of her greatest responsibilities on the Youth Advisory Board is to come up with ideas for recruiting new members.

“Because so many of our members go away to college, we always are looking for new people,” said Ariana.  “We want to do anything we can to get the message out about what YouthCorps is and how to join.”

In her last year of high school, Ariana plans to continue her work with the Disaster Action Team, deliver presentations, and participate in CPR Saturday events.

Following high school, she plans on going away to college, possibly in Washington D.C. 

“Some of the colleges I have been looking at have Red Cross groups and clubs,” said Ariana.  “I definitely plan to continue being a part of the Red Cross.”

Since joining the Red Cross, Ariana has developed a strong interest in international service opportunities.  She would love to work with the Measles Initiative and in educating others about International Humanitarian Law.

Click here for more information on the St. Louis Area Chapter's YouthCorps program.

To read more stories about Red Cross volunteers and donors, click here.