What A Great Year We Had!

This year has been incredible, and we want to take a moment to celebrate what we achieved together. Dedicated team members, partners, and supporters make our mission possible, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment and passion.

As we look to 2025, we’re especially excited to continue to grow the young lives touched by the programs and outreach of I Am Aria. 

All the best for a new year filled with growth, impact, and hope for young people far and wide – as well as all of you who help support our mission.

Winter - Spring 2024: Our First After-School Journaling Program

I Am Aria hosted our first after-school journaling program at a local school in Pinellas County. Ten girls ranging in age from 10-14 met weekly to learn how journaling can not only be a creative outlet, but one that can positively impact mental health.

Summer 2024: I Am Aria’s Fifth Summer Author Apprentice Internship Program

For eight weeks, 20 youth authors from multiple countries met via Zoom to learn about story writing, editing, and marketing as independent authors. Throughout the program, these young authors delved into the world of publishing while focusing on the theme of friendship – an important aspect in the lives of young people everywhere.

A Special Treat During the Summer Program

Our summer program hosted several guest speakers who greatly enhanced what our young authors were learning by adding a variety of perspectives and information. One highlight was a visit by famed children's and teen horror writer Mr. R.L. Stine. He delighted us all with his unique thoughts about being and becoming a writer and many humorous tales from his own experiences. Having him join us made for a remarkable evening!

Fall 2024: I Am Aria’s First Publication

Throughout the Fall, we worked with young people to publish an anthology of short stories. This was a laborious undertaking as we worked with young writers spanning the globe to meet deadlines, edit their work, and have their stories ready to put out into the world!

Passion for writing and reading also inspired us to begin providing books for youth and teens in underserved areas. It is our goal to empower those in underserved communities through access to literature that can inspire, foster discussions around important social issues, and promote literacy skills. 

Winter 2024: I Am Aria’s Book Release

Tales of Friendship was available for order just in time for the Winter holidays, giving our young writers the ability to say “I am a published author!”. What an absolute pleasure it was to give that gift to so many teens with a talent and passion for writing.

Again, we cannot express enough our appreciation to all who have joined us in these efforts over the past year and are excited to expand our endeavors in 2025 – helping youth thrive while developing their passions and talents.