Chapter members presented the non-perishable food items to Gail Watts, far left, the representative from the local Fishes & Loaves Outreach Food Bank.Photo courtesy of Pamlico County Middle School.
In a heartwarming display of teamwork, compassion and school spirit, the SkillsUSA chapter at Pamlico County Middle School in Bayboro, N.C. took action to support others in need. During the school’s homecoming football game, students turned their popular shrimp sandwich fundraiser into a force for good. They raised an astounding $1,100 to aid hurricane relief efforts in Western North Carolina. But their efforts didn’t stop there. With an unwavering commitment to service, these young leaders also collected more than 220 pounds of food for the Fishes & Loaves Outreach Food Bank, proving that middle schoolers can make a powerful impact on their community.
Answering the Call for Help
Living on the coast of North Carolina, the students of Pamlico County understand firsthand the power of nature and the destruction hurricanes can bring. The devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene struck a chord with these students, who knew they had to act. Drawing on past success, they turned to their beloved shrimp burgers and rolls and sold the popular sandwiches at the school homecoming football game in October.
What started as a simple fundraiser quickly transformed into something much bigger — a night of generosity, connection and shared purpose. The energy at the homecoming game was electric as students donned their SkillsUSA shirts and eagerly worked together, selling shrimp sandwiches with enthusiasm and pride. Patrons lined up to contribute to the effort, enjoying delicious seafood while supporting a meaningful cause. The event buzzed with excitement, turning a typical football night into a beacon of community spirit.
More Than Just a Fundraiser
“As students at Pamlico County Middle School, we’re taught the importance of giving back,” explained Melody Armstrong, the 8th grade chapter president. “Understanding the impact of hurricanes like Helene drives us to act. We hope our efforts not only help those in need but also inspire others to do the same,” added Ciarrah Carawan, the 7th grade chapter parliamentarian.
The chapter has 42 student members and two adult advisors including STEM instructor Sheri Hale and School Resource Officer (SRO) Mark Angelo. “We couldn’t be prouder of how giving our students have been. They understand the devastation of a hurricane, so they were eager to get busy to help whomever they could,” Angelo explains.
And inspire, they did! The $1,100 raised was sent directly to aid families rebuilding their lives after the storm. More than just financial support, the effort demonstrated the strength of young people uniting for a cause greater than themselves. The fundraiser not only showcased their organizational and leadership skills but also reinforced the idea that even small acts of kindness can make a huge difference.
Filling Food Pantries, Filling Hearts
The students didn’t stop at hurricane relief. Determined to make an even greater impact, the SkillsUSA chapter launched a food drive with a creative twist — entry to their End-of-Year Party required a donation of non-perishable food items. The result? Over 220 pounds of food collected for the Fishes & Loaves Outreach Food Bank.
The party was more than just a fun celebration — it was a testament to the power of service and generosity. Students laughed, danced and enjoyed the festivities, knowing they were also helping local families in need. Their enthusiasm was contagious, inspiring classmates, faculty and community members to contribute.
A Legacy of Leadership
Beyond the fundraiser and food drive, the SkillsUSA students extended their outreach to the community by collecting donations during Christmas parades, further strengthening their impact. Their dedication to service sets an example for others, proving that middle schoolers have the power to be leaders in their communities.
“We are proud of what we’ve accomplished as a chapter,” said advisor Sheri Hale. “Every item collected not only fills pantry shelves but also brings hope to those who rely on the food bank. We’re grateful to everyone who supported our efforts.”
Their work embodies the true spirit of giving to others — showing that when young people come together with determination and heart, they can change lives. With their eyes set on future projects, the SkillsUSA chapter at Pamlico County Middle School is ready to continue making a difference, proving that service, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of kindness throughout a community.
