Taylor Farmer, vice president of Family, Career & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and senior, has used the clubs he participates in as platforms for making a difference. He is a member of Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) and has been the vice president of FCCLA for two years.

FCCLA adviser Nancy Spencer said before Farmer became vice president, the club was small and in need of new leadership. Spencer said Farmer has brought FCCLA to the forefront of the family and consumer science department and has been instrumental in recruiting new members.

“Without him, I don’t think it would be where it is right now,” Spencer said.

Farmer said as soon as he took the role of vice president, he helped spread awareness about the mission of FCCLA. When he informed them about the club’s goal of developing necessary life skills, they joined and allowed the club to do more activities. Farmer has helped organize fundraising events such as bake sales to raise money for Share our Strength, Autism Speaks and March of Dimes. He said that through this club he has raised students’ self-confidence so they can be better leaders for the future and spread awareness about the organizations they support.

Spencer said she believes a large portion of Farmer’s effectiveness in making a difference is that he always has a smile on his face and has fun with what he does. Farmer said his enthusiasm and comical personality help him make others want to make a difference.

“It’s hard to describe (him). He just likes people. He’s not afraid to be himself. He is who he is, and he’s Taylor Farmer whether you like it or not,” Spencer said.

Farmer’s goal is to show people they can make a difference. He said anybody can be a leader, even if he or she is introverted or lacks confidence.

“That’s what my motivation is,” Farmer said. “I want to show people, especially teenagers that think that the world is so big and that they’re so small, that when they band together and work hard and work together, as teenagers at Carmel High School, you can actually make a difference in the community. Just put your mind to it, and there’s nothing that can hold you back. You will be a strong, confident person by becoming a strong, confident leader.”