Students at Patriot High School are encouraged to develop their full leadership potential, demonstrate integrity, understand the importance of character, and consistently display pride: pride in their accomplishments, community, and school. Members of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Club used these values as they answered the call to serve in their local community.

Each year, the students engaged in the Patriot FCCLA Club come together to contribute their time and talent to support the local community. By hosting events and service projects, club members seek to make a difference and leave a legacy that contributes to the common good. In addition to hosting local events and serving local families throughout the year, the FCCLA club designed a service project called “No More Trashbags.” The students identified a need to support children in foster care both locally and across the US. They partnered with Comfort Cases, an organization that serves youth in foster care, to organize a supply drive and donate backpacks filled with items to be distributed to youth in need. Students were not only active in service, but also empowered to educate others and advocate for youth in care. Their accomplishments were recognized by the national FCCLA organization, and awarded grant funding as a result of the students’ hard work.

The impact of the club and the projects they undertake both create a tangible impact for their local community and Americans across the US, but also foster a spirit of service in middle and high school students that continues to inspire them to volunteer for years to come. By developing skills and gaining hands-on experience through the FCCLA club projects, students are primed to make a difference as they continue their contributions to society.