By Aditi Gaddam, @deca.aditi | Lightridge High School, VA
Fundraisers play a vital role in creating a successful DECA chapter. When led by DECA members, it can exemplify to them the importance of taking initiative to help out the community. This also allows members the opportunity to step outside the classroom and apply their skills in real-world settings. Fundraisers give chapters purpose and overall reflect the DECA mission of creating emerging leaders.
1. Building Community Through Purpose
Fundraisers foster a sense of community with chapters working together to achieve a common goal. When students come together to lead a project, they are passionate about making it succeed and strengthening the support for the cause.
At Lightridge High School, two DECA members, Hasini Dilliraj and Triti Ranjith Kumar, led a “Pink Out” fundraiser during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The two passionate students collaborated with Lightridge’s Culinary Arts students to bake and sell pastries, drinks, shirts, bows and more, working together to raise over $3,000 in just four days.
All of their proceeds went to the Loudoun Breast Health Network, and their small idea evolved into a significant mission, bringing together students, families, teachers and community members. This fundraiser let them create and lead real change, showcasing the purpose of contributing to a shared mission.
2. Connecting with Community
Fundraisers enable DECA members to connect with their community and understand real needs, ultimately working to uplift their communities. They create a bridge between students with a passion and local organizations, allowing students to make meaningful contributions.
After their fundraiser, Hasini and Triti were able to meet with Pam Smith, the LBHN Outreach Director, to deliver the donations and discuss LBHN’s work with her. When speaking with Pam, she mentioned various things that really showcased the importance of fundraising to help support the members of the LBHN.
She shared how LBHN was founded when there was a need to help people in Loudoun County, VA, in 2012, battling Breast Cancer. This idea later evolved into a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those in need and providing financial assistance to those struggling. Pam mentioned that the funds raised by these students would be used to give back to Breast Cancer survivors and also spread awareness about the disease.
Overall, Pam was able to share how their organization relies heavily on the help of volunteers and fundraising to support individuals. Upon hearing this, Lightridge DECA members truly realized the impact they had made, ultimately transforming the fundraiser from a school-wide event to a gracious community partnership.
3. Developing Leaders
Fundraisers hosted by DECA chapters can enable members to step into leadership roles, communicate effectively, work together and refine their skills, bringing the chapter together. These experiences can help shape the culture and the identity of DECA chapters.
At Lightridge, the “Pink Out” fundraiser aimed to raise money to impact the community while also teaching members crucial skills positively. In this process, members learned entrepreneurial skills, including managing finances, promoting the project, organizing efficiently, and more.
These experiences overall help prepare members not only for competition but also for further leadership opportunities.
