Published September 29, 2025
BY CLAIRE DEIPARINE
Dedicated to fostering connection, modeling leadership and giving back to the community, the Carmel Youth Aid club unites Carmel High students through volunteer opportunities at local events and elementary schools to support and inspire younger generations.
Founded by juniors Ruby Iranmanesh and Riley Nothhelfer during their freshman year, the two formed the club after acknowledging a lack of student involvement within the lower Carmel campuses, deciding to take on the task of establishing connection between the upper and lower grades. Their mission was to create a space that empowered their peers to rise up and promote meaningful engagement in the community.
Club vice president Riley Nothhelfer and Emily Kim (from left) prepare plates of whipped cream for River School students to throw at their principal. Photo by RUBY IRANMANESH
“We had heard in the bulletin that the lower schools were looking for CHS volunteers to help out with the kids, but no one bothered to step up,” recalls Iranmanesh.
CYA has grown into one of the school’s most active service groups, with over 60 members who aim to set the standard for community involvement among Carmel’s youth.
Club adviser Aubrey Powers gives the presidents the space they need to work while still supporting their cause from a less active position.
“Besides supporting Ruby and Riley and lending them my room, they have really taken the lead in connecting with the schools, finding opportunities and making sure everyone is involved,” the Leadership teacher says.
Throughout the year, members volunteer at events in partnership with Tularcitos, Carmel River School and Carmel Youth Baseball, where students staff the snack shack to raise money for the team. The variety of activities among the organizations ensures flexible schedules for students balancing academics, sports and other extracurricular commitments.
The club is preparing for upcoming fall volunteer opportunities, including River School’s annual Fall Festival in October, where members will run activity booths and engage directly with younger students through games and interactive events. Club members work alongside River parents to help bring the festival to life, promising an exciting experience for the elementary students who look up to them.
Reflecting on the club’s mission and journey, Nothhelfer emphasized the importance of giving back.
“We wanted to give back to our community after all it’s given to us,” Nothhelfer explains. “Our experiences with the upperclassmen helping out in the lower schools when we were younger played a big part in our growth.”
Iranmanesh adds that while the club focuses on building strong ties within the Carmel community, its presidents are already planning ahead. The pair has begun reaching out to other organizations through the National Charity League, including Pass the Word and Dorothy’s Kitchen, to explore future collaborations and eventually expand the club’s impact across the Monterey Peninsula.
