March/April 2016

Magazine for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Inc.

Also inside...

20 FCCLA Journeys: Army All-American Bowl Event 21 FCCLA’s Unite in Red Fund - Red Jacket Awards 26 Make Plans for the 2016 National Cluster Meetings!

March/April 2016

Empower Me to Succeed FCCLA members empower each other to succeed. Find out how inside...

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Inside March/April 2016

20.

Features

6 What’s Your Financial Fitness?

8 Got the FACTS on Traffic Safety?

Regulars

2 Executive Director’s Note 3 Hello from the National President 4 Packing Pointers 5 FCCLA: A Worthy Cause!

10 Red Jacket, Red Hot Future 11 Couch-to-5K® with National FCCLA 12 Spotlight on Leadership Service in Action 13 What’s Farm to Table?

14 Class Acts 16 STAR Events - Your Time to SHINE! 17 FCCLA/LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl 19 Go For the Red 20 FCCLA Journeys: Army All-American Bowl Event 21 FCCLA’s Unite in Red Fund - Red Jacket Awards 22 Partner Power!

24 Spot the Changes 25 2016 Capitol Leadership 26 Make Plans for the 2016 National Cluster Meetings!

28 FCCLA in Action 29 FCCLA Faces 30 Social Media Roundup

25.

4.

21.

Teen Times is the national magazine of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, a career and technical student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education, or as determined by the state department of education.

Josh Bowar, Editorial Consultant Ashley Pournaras, Layout/Design NATIONAL STAFF Sandy Spavone, Executive Director Beth Carpenter, Director of Programs Leah Buller, Director of Membership Marla Burk, CMP, Director of Conferences Mark Hornby, CPA, Director of Finance Karen Patti, Director of Communications Ashley Pournaras, Senior Communications Manager Aimee Hardenbergh, Meetings Manager Charles Carson, Mailroom Manager Christine Hollingsworth, Competitive Events Manager Heather Davis, Partnership Manager Ana Torres, Staff Accountant Caitlin Osbourne, Affiliation & Registration Coordinator Kelley Conners, Meetings Coordinator Kim South, Executive Assistant Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is a private, nonprofit national organization of more than 155,000 members incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia. It functions through public and private secondary school systems in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands as an integral part of the Family and Consumer Sciences education program, providing opportunities for enriched learning.

Editor’s Note: Please credit Teen Times for information you reprint, excerpt, or photocopy. Use the following statement to credit materials you use from this issue: Reprinted with permission from Teen Times, the national magazine of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Vol. 70, No. 4.

Teen Times (ISSN 0735-6986) is published four times per year in September, November, January, and March by Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Inc., 1910 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191-1584, (703) 476-4900. A portion ($4.00) of national dues pays for a one-year subscription to Teen Times.

Inclusion of an advertisement does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s claims, products, and services. Periodicals postage paid at Reston, VA, and additional mailing offices.

Additional annual subscriptions for non-members: $8.00.

POSTMASTERS: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Teen Times, 1910 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191-1584.

FCCLA Mission

To promote personal growth and leadership development through Family and Consumer Sciences education. Focusing on the multiple roles of family member, wage earner, and community leader, members develop skills for life through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 1

Executive Director’s Note Greetings, FCCLA! We’ve reached the final stretch of the school year, and I know that you are continuing to empower yourself and others through your leadership.

It’s hard to believe this is the last edition of Teen Times for this school year. It has been such a wonderful year! I have enjoyed meeting so many of you, hearing about the great work you are doing in your chapters. You empower others through your leadership, and we thank you for your commitment to FCCLA and your willingness to share your MEpower with others. Through your commitment and leadership, FCCLA is empowering youth around the country.

The theme of this issue is all about empowering to succeed. When I think about things that empower me to succeed, these examples come to mind: Kendra Michael of Iowa FCCLA: Kendra has empowered internationally. She has achieved sponsorships with Bic and Duck Tape, and teaches youth in Haiti to make her duct tape flower pens. Kendra then sells the pens, and the money directly benefits children in the Touch of Hope Haiti School.

Parkston FCCLA (South Dakota): This chapter has raised over $10,000 to help a sophomore FCCLA chapter member who was diagnosed with aplastic anemia. They’ve hosted tailgate benefits, had a bone marrow registry drive, sold “Strength for Sam” t-shirts, and more.

Mrs. Jenny Watson: Mrs. Watson is the adviser for the largest FCCLA chapter in North Carolina (her chapter has over 400 members!). She was a state officer for Virginia FCCLA, is a member of Alumni & Associates, and was even married on June 11th – FCCLA’s birthday! She and two of her friends wore the red blazer at her wedding.

So what empowers you to succeed? Is it working with a friend? Is it planning a project and seeing it through? Is it serving others? The power within you can be inspired by those you meet and the work that you do to impact others. Surround yourself with positive leaders and partner with those who have a vision and passion for success. When we empower ourselves to succeed, then we can truly empower others to succeed. After all, a dead battery can’t do much good for anything else, right?

I challenge you to make your own list of things that empower you to succeed and then make plans to remind yourself of these things. Check into what motivates you, and then include these things regularly in your life. Share that power with others as you serve as a leader in your career, family, and community.

Let’s keep the empowerment going as we finish the year strong and look toward the National Leadership Conference in San Diego, CA, this July. I look forward to seeing you there and hearing all about how you empowered yourself and others through your FCCLA journey of leadership this year.

Have a great rest of the school year!

Sandy Spavone 2 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

Hello National President from the

Hello, FCCLA! Well, the finish line is getting closer. State leadership conferences are about to begin, there are only a couple of weeks until spring break, graduations will be happening in two months… and of course we are counting down the days to the National Leadership Conference! With so many events happening in such a short time, the National Executive Council has been working to help each one be a success. In February, we spent a week at National Headquarters in Virginia (with a side adventure to New York City) advocating for FACS education, planning and preparing for the remainder of the year, and connecting with each other. We look forward to sharing our excitement and energy with you!

National Leadership Conference has a lot in store for its attendees at the San Diego Convention Center. Thousands of youth leaders will be competing in Competitive Events at the national level. Along with Competitive Events, youth and professional speakers will conduct workshops. And while the 2015-2016 NEC conducts this extraordinary meeting, a select group of National Officer Candidates will be participating in the election process for a position on the 2016-2017 NEC. The National Leadership Conference has a lot to offer this

year in the city of San Diego, and I can’t wait to see how you will be empowered to be an ultimate leader in FCCLA! Make sure to keep your eyes on the prize.

Many of you need to qualify for nationals by achieving a certain rating or ranking in your state. By keeping the bigger picture in mind, you will be empowered to succeed. “Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds” (Orison Swett Marden). Be courageous in your efforts, do your best, and let your MEpower shine! I am thankful for the people, projects, and experiences that have empowered me to serve as your National President this year.

I look forward to seeing many of you empowered in San Diego!

Sincerely,

National President

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 3

Packing Pointers

by Makayla Hendricks, National Vice-President of Public Relations

When you’re starting to pack for the National Leadership Conference, it can sometimes become overwhelming. And, like most members, you’ll end up taking two packed bags to nationals. I made this mistake my first NLC! Once we landed, my luggage was broken, and I had to drag my bag through the airport and hotel.

It wasn’t a fun experience, and I’ve witnessed it happen time and time again to other members.

a video where Mark and I will pack everything you need for an FCCLA event, including that snazzy red blazer.

Don’t let NLC get off to a bad start. Follow these few tips and you’ll never have to worry about your luggage again!

Remember, you’ll most likely wear it again (so don’t pack so many clothes).

1. PACK ALL YOUR ITEMS IN CARRY ON LUGGAGE. My great friend Mark Pantelakis, a luggage expert, taught me how to pack everything I need for FCCLA trips – plus room for souvenirs – in just a carry on, and I’ve used it on every trip since. There are many benefits to packing in a carry on. There is less possibility of your luggage being lost, and you don’t have to haul a giant suitcase around.

You’ll save time and money by not checking a bag.

Don’t believe you can do it?

Check out Mark’s free training videos at www. traveloutfittersusa. com/luggagepacking-choosingluggage.htm.

His technique will change your perspective on packing.

Make sure to watch the FCCLA blog closer to NLC for 4 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

2. FOLLOW THE RULES OF PACKING. Pack fewer shoes. At most, you need dress shoes, walking shoes, and traveling shoes.

Make a list and stick to it. Don’t get caught up in last-minute packing and throwing unnecessary items into your bag.

If you want to save on meals, pack small items (oatmeal, granola bars, etc.) in a backpack.

Consider packing a small duffle bag in your carry on in case you purchase souvenirs and FCCLA t-shirts. If needed, you could check it on the way home.

Talk with your roommates, as you may be able to share a few items like curling irons and straightening irons. Remember, there’s a hairdryer in the hotel.

3. CHECK OUT THESE TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME FLYERS. You’re most likely traveling with a group, so make an effort to learn how to navigate the airport.

Make sure to stay with your group, but ask questions to learn for yourself.

You’re only allowed certain amounts of liquids when going through security. In your carry on, you’re allowed what’s called a 3-1-1 (3 ounces of liquid in one 1-quart bag). Make sure all lotions, shampoos, and other liquids are each less than 3 ounces and fit in that bag. I recommend buying travel-sized shampoos, using them at NLC, and then throwing them out before coming home.

Most hotels also provide items like soap and

FCCLA: A Worthy Cause!

Suitcase illu

strations by

Katya Ulitin

a

shampoo. If you’re not sure if it counts as a liquid, look it up or ask someone.

Also when going through security, you’ll need to remove your shoes, belts, jackets, and any electronics. I make sure I travel wearing easy slip on shoes and keep my laptop where it is easily accessible.

Traveling is an adventure! It can be

stressful, but with

these tips it’s sure to be a breeze. And don’t

forget to watch the

FCCLA blog for a video

where I’ll pack

everything YOU need

for the National

Leadership

Conference!

Through various sponsors and donors, FCCLA is able to carry out its mission and offer unique opportunities to its members. Our donors are very valuable to our organization, and any amount of support goes a long way.

Have you ever thought about donating to FCCLA and giving back to our great organization? Giving back improves not just your experience but also the experience of future members.

Donating is very simple and can be done completely online. Giving back by donating is another way to invest in our organization besides the great work you do in your chapters. FCCLA uses the funds received from various donations to purchase red blazers for the Unite in Red Fund – Red Jacket Awards, to purchase plaques for STAR Event awards, to provide grants to chapters across the nation, to support our national programs, and much, much more! Our different national campaigns are listed below. We hope you’ll check them out and encourage others to do the same!

FCCLA’s Annual Fund www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NjQy Unite In Red Campaign (#UinRed!) www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MzQ4Mw Impact Fund www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDE0NA Student giving is a point of pride for our members, but we know it might be tough to find money to donate. As stated before, any amount of support helps us continue our mission. Even if you start very small, you are still making a difference. You can even start by donating $1.00 a month. When looking at your spending plan, think about some things you could save on or give up in order to pay it forward.

We appreciate your support!

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 5

WHAT’S YOUR FINANCIAL FITNESS? How much sense do you have with dollars and cents? Are you a financial expert or just learning?

No matter what level you’re at, the FCCLA Financial Fitness program can help you succeed!

Did you know that Financial Fitness is getting a makeover this year, with the new program to be unveiled at the 2016 National Leadership Conference in San Diego, CA? The FCCLA Financial Fitness national peer education program involves youth teaching one another how to earn, spend, save, and protect money wisely.

Through FCCLA’s Financial Fitness program, youth plan and carry out projects that help them and their peers learn to become wise financial managers and smart consumers. Youth leaders

6 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

can build their peers’ financial literacy and teach them skills for managing their finances today and in the future.

Its goals are to: • Inform and inspire teens to sharpen their skills in earning, spending, saving, and protecting their money • Create a national network of young people who use teen-to-teen communications to share information • Provide teenagers with an opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills by being peer educators

THE NEW UNITS FOR FINANCIAL FITNESS WILL BE: Earning – sharpen on-the-job financial fitness Spending – track and plan personal spending Saving – conquer bank accounts, credit, and investments Protecting – keep financial and personal interests safe FCCLA is excited about being able to offer the updated Financial Fitness national program!

One way that you can be financially fit is to grow your savings. You earn money and spend money, but you also need to remember to save money for important purchases or for those “rainy days”.

So how can you grow your savings?

Give this yearlong plan a try! Save the same amount of money for the number of each week throughout the year, and you could have $1,378 dollars by the end of 12 months. That’s a lot of coin!

Get your whole family involved! Discuss how you’ll spend the savings, give some to charity, etc. and then post a progress chart.

The last half of the savings plan can be pretty pricey per week. If that’s too much for you right now, go through weeks 1-26 twice. You’ll still end up with a nice savings amount at the end!

52 Week Money Challenge Week

Deposit Amount

Account Balance

Week

Deposit Amount

Account Balance

1

$1.00

$1.00

27

$27.00

$378.00

2

$2.00

$3.00

28

$28.00

$406.00

3

$3.00

$6.00

29

$29.00

$435.00

4

$4.00

$10.00

30

$30.00

$465.00

5

$5.00

$15.00

31

$31.00

$496.00

6

$6.00

$21.00

32

$32.00

$528.00

7

$7.00

$28.00

33

$33.00

$561.00

8

$8.00

$36.00

34

$34.00

$595.00

9

$9.00

$45.00

35

$35.00

$630.00

10

$10.00

$55.00

36

$36.00

$666.00

11

$11.00

$66.00

37

$37.00

$703.00

12

$12.00

$78.00

38

$38.00

$741.00

13

$13.00

$91.00

39

$39.00

$780.00

14

$14.00

$105.00

40

$40.00

$820.00

15

$15.00

$120.00

41

$41.00

$861.00

16

$16.00

$136.00

42

$42.00

$903.00

17

$17.00

$153.00

43

$43.00

$946.00

18

$18.00

$171.00

44

$44.00

$990.00

19

$19.00

$190.00

45

$45.00

$1035.00

20

$20.00

$210.00

46

$46.00

$1,081.00

21

$21.00

$231.00

47

$47.00

$1,128.00

22

$22.00

$253.00

48

$48.00

$1,176.00

23

$23.00

$276.00

49

$49.00

$1,225.00

24

$24.00

$300.00

50

$50.00

$1,275.00

25

$25.00

$325.00

51

$51.00

$1,326.00

26

$26.00

$351.00

52

$52.00

$1,378.00

WHAT COULD YOU DO WITH $1,378?

WHAT OTHER WAYS COULD YOU INCREASE YOUR SAVINGS?

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 7

FCCLA is excited to announce that the Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety (FACTS) national program is getting a facelift, with the updated program being available during the 2016 National Leadership Conference in San Diego, CA.

GOT THE FACTS ON TRAFFIC SAFETY? Crossword Puzzle Word Bank for the following page. penny, safety, trucks, pedestrians, stop, before it happens, passenger, very long, bicycle, seat belt, killed, crashes, mile per hour, false, construction, always, distracted, school bus, inexperience, trunk, buckle up, graduated, safety hazards

8 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

FACTS is a national FCCLA peer education program through which students strive to save lives through personal, vehicle, and road safety. Teens work to educate adults and youth about traffic safety and support enforcement of local rules and regulations regarding community traffic safety. Youth leaders can help families promote basic safety attitudes and actions that can last a lifetime.

Its goals are to help members: • promote driver and passenger safety • understand vehicle maintenance and safety • demonstrate safe attitudes and actions on the road The program will include three new units: • Key FACTS for Your Safety – understand and promote your role as a driver or passenger and keep yourself and others safe • Key FACTS for Vehicle Safety – understand and promote vehicle safety and the role it plays in safety for yourself and others • Key FACTS for Road Safety – understand and promote your role on the road as well as the safety hazards you may encounter and how to avoid or react to them Get a sneak peek at one of the resources available in the new FACTS program, Yield to Traffic Safety, on the next page!

After finishing the puzzle, work in six- to eightperson teams to create a traffic safety message that will influence young people. The message should encourage personal, vehicle, or road safety.

Then create a poster, skit, webpage sketch, song, or other technique to spread your message!

YIELD TO TRAFFIC SAFETY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

21. You can use a ____ to check the tread of tires on your vehicle.

23. What kind of sign is red and has eight sides?

DOWN 1. These road users are some of the most vulnerable because they have little protection.

ACROSS 2. Eating, talking on the phone, changing the radio, and having an argument with a passenger are all examples of ________ driving.

3. You should share the road with motorcycles, buses, school buses, emergency vehicles, and these large vehicles.

5. What big yellow vehicle do many children ride to school in? (2 words)

4. About 4,000 drivers are ______ each year with drugs in their systems.

8. _____ driver licensing is a process to help new drivers.

6. It’s easier to correct a problem ______ with your vehicle than to fix it afterwards. (3 words)

9. True or False: Playing the radio loudly is one way to fight against drowsy driving.

7. It takes trains a _____time to stop. (2 words) 12. FACTS stands for Families Acting for Community Traffic _______.

10. Car ______ are the leading cause of death for youth.

16. What should you always do when you get in the car? (2 words)

11. Reading the road as a driver means looking for _____________. (2 words)

19. It’s important to keep safety materials in your _______.

13. Crash risk increases incrementally with each ______ over the speed limit. (3 words)

1

2

3 4 5

6 7

8

9 10

11 12 13

14

15 16

17

18

19

14. You should ______ yield the right-of-way to a police car, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle that uses a siren and flashing lights.

15. All _________ zone signs across the nation are orange.

17. What has two wheels, and you can ride it?

18. What should you buckle as soon as you get into the car?

20. What contributes to deadly crashes by young drivers?

20 21 22

23

22. You can help the driver be safe by being a safe __________.

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 9

Red Jacket, Red Hot Future

“

...I can see the positive changes we make in our schools, communities, and even our state.

This issue’s “Red Jacket, Red Hot Future” features Andrew Backman, a junior at HermanNorcross High School in Herman, Minnesota.

Andrew is the representative to the Minnesota FCCLA Board of Directors.

What is your favorite FCCLA experience?

This is a hard question, but I would have to say that my favorite FCCLA experience so far is being able to help lead others as a state officer this year! It’s such an exciting opportunity because I can see the positive changes we make in our schools, communities, and even our state.

What advice would you give a new FCCLA member to ensure that they get the most out of their FCCLA journey?

I would tell any new member of FCCLA that to get the most out of their journey they just need to go for it and make the most of every experience. Get involved with as many FCCLA activities as you can, and make the most of each one. Each member only has a few years to be a part of this, so we need to realize the impact that we can make and act now!

10 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

” How has FCCLA contributed to your leadership development?

FCCLA has definitely helped me in more ways than one. The organization has really prepared me for being a leader in my job, school, and family. Also, it has helped me understand how to make good choices. I’m now able to set goals for myself, which will help me excel later in life.

What’s next for you?

I’m a junior this year, but with help from FCCLA, I have so many college and career readiness skills. I want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and then later specialize in small animal surgery.

Are you ready to run? Get ready to join us at the FCCLA Run4Red race this summer at the National Leadership Conference in San Diego.

Graphic by Christian Ferrari

5K with FCCLA

Still haven’t made it off the couch yet? It’s not too late! Check out some tips below for how to get started training for a 5K. Start Slow: Use a Couch-to-5K® run/walk plan and start your runs with an aerobic base. A good first week of training is a 20-30-minute jog/run/walk 3 times a week. No sweat!

Cool Down: When you finish your run, don’t stop suddenly (even if you’re tired). Instead, try walking another 5 minutes to cool down gradually.

Stretching: Stretching pre- and post-run is one of the most important aspects of training for a race. The best time to deal with an injury due to running is before it occurs. So stretching not only increases flexibility, but it is also a vital way to avoid those injuries.

Running Form: Yes, form matters in running! Work on running tall without leaning forward. Make sure to look toward the horizon and not down at your shoes. And if you’re running uphill, try to shorten your stride and drive your body more with your arms.

We can’t wait to see you in San Diego and Run4Red in beautiful, sunny California!

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 11

Spotlight on Leadership Service in Action

By Garrett Christiaens, National Vice-President of Programs

“

What’s at the heart of FCCLA? Our National Programs!

”

By participating in one of the eight national programs, you can address real world issues in your families, communities, and future careers. National program projects are youth-teaching-youth activities and events that achieve program units or goals by using the FCCLA Planning Process.

Throughout my years in FCCLA, I have had the opportunity to use several of the programs FCCLA offers it members. One of the national programs our school uses is Leadership Service in Action.

This program assists students in developing and carrying out projects to improve the quality of life in their communities. My most memorable experience in using this program in our chapter and community just occurred this past year.

Valier, Montana, is your typical small town with a little more than 500 members in our community. We work and play together, and when there is a need in our community or someone needs assistance, we all take action and help. Our chapter is very serviceorientated and is always active in our community.

Just this year, a “mother figure” in our community

12 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

was diagnosed with cancer. Our town came together and hosted a dinner, auction, and benefit for this community member. The whole town helped contribute, and our FCCLA chapter had a very vital role in making sure the benefit was successful. After one night, our small community raised over $50,000 to help alleviate some of the medical bills that had been accumulating.

Part of our success was due to one of FCCLA purposes, a purpose that fits perfectly with the Leadership Service in Action national program: to promote greater understanding between youth and adults. FCCLA members and community adults worked together to accomplish this effort.

The adults involved the students in many aspects of the event, establishing goals and making sure all their assigned tasks and jobs at the benefit were completed.

Leadership Service in Action is the perfect program for you to connect with your community and continue the great work you are already doing. I hope you take the opportunity to use this program in the future and help your chapter bring action to your community.

Be sure to apply for the National Programs in Action Awards (to be recognized at National Leadership Conference) or participate in the STAR Event National Programs in Action to hopefully earn a trip to National Leadership Conference.

I can’t wait to see what you do with the FCCLA national programs!

What’s Farm to Table?

It’s all about strengthening connections from the farm to the table and enhancing the local food system. Partner organizations, farms, and consumers are key to the entire system. Strengthening the local economic future and food system from the farm to the table is very important.

their efforts to increase local foods served through child nutrition programs, teaching children about food and agriculture through garden and classroom education, and developing schools’ and farmers’ capacities to participate in Farm to School. http://www.fns.usda.gov/ farmtoschool/farm-school

http://www.farmtoschool.org/ our-network

What does this have to do Nasco Consumer Division with you and FCCLA? The Family & You Are PartSciences of Our Network: (FCCLA) Teen Times possibilities are endless.

Farm to School is a grassroots Getting involved in March/April the movement powered by people 2016 community is nothing new like you who believe all students TT1603 to FCCLA chapters, and you deserve equal access to could partner with local farms, healthy, local foods as well as farmer’s markets, co-ops, educational opportunities, such restaurants, and even your as school gardens, cooking school to bring the freshest lessons, and farm field trips. options to those around you.

Another movement is Farm to School. Farm to School – or Farm to Cafeteria – movements help both farmers and students by supporting small- to medium-sized local farms by providing them with consistent business and by providing school-aged children with healthy locally grown food. Programs also encourage nutrition education activities designed to teach children to be healthy eaters for life.

Know your Farmer, Know your Food: Check out ideas and grants available from the USDA You’re your Farmer, Know your Food program. http://www.usda. gov/wps/portal/usda/ usdahome?navid=KYF_ GRANTS Is your chapter doing a project for Student Body, Career Connection, Financial Fitness, Lead2Feed, or STAR Events?

Use these initiatives or create your own to support a local Farm to Table or Farm to School initiative!

TT1603

Here are a few project ideas to consider for the growth of your local Farm to Table movement: Farm to School Grants: Nearly $5 million in grants were awarded to projects spanning 39 states to fund school districts, state and local agencies, tribal nations, agricultural producers, and non-profit organizations in March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 13

Daisy Amaris, Sewanhaka High School, New York

WHAT FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES CLASSES DO YOU TEACH? FACS courses I teach at Amaris The Sewanhaka High School are Home and Career Skills, Foods and Nutrition, Independent Life Skills, and Child Psychology and Development. teach the food science Singleton Ipathway, which includes Food, Nutrition, and Wellness; Food for Life; and Food Science.

AS A FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES INSTRUCTOR, WHAT DO YOU DO TO PROMOTE AND FURTHER THE PROFESSION?

Amaris As a FACS instructor,

promoting and publicizing our discipline is key to our profession. Some things we do as a department to keep relevant and current within our school community are

14 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

Lynsey Singleton,

Houston County High School, Georgia

nominating students of the month, writing blurbs highlighting FACS students in action and submitting them to our local newspapers, and involving our students in FCCLA. In addition, keeping our membership status current with professional organizations such as the New York State Association of Family and Consumer Science Educators and continuing to take advantage of professional development opportunities is also important in furthering the profession. Lastly, supporting educational initiatives such as the Say YES to FACS Campaign and actively participating in mentoring new teachers within our profession is essential in building and maintaining a strong presence in the 21st century!

Singleton I promote several

professions falling under our umbrella, but when I hear a student who excels in my classes say they want to become a teacher, I get really excited. I share my own passion for the coursework and FCCLA so students can

see how much fun it is to be a FACS teacher.

I also firmly stress the purposes of FCCLA so they know and understand the rhyme and reason for what we do. I tell my students one of my favorite parts of being a FACS teacher and an FCCLA adviser is the chance to provide new and exciting opportunities for my students that are guaranteed to prepare them for the real world.

have found a way to Singleton Iuse each of the national programs in my classroom. If it does not fit directly into my curriculum, I will have what we call an “FCCLA Friday”, and we will take a break and focus on something FCCLA. There are several FCCLA STAR Events that directly related to our curriculum that are fun to use as class projects. It helps me to spot who I may want to put a little “extra special” pressure on competing outside of class.

WHAT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OR RESOURCES DO YOU USE TO STAY CURRENT IN THE SUBJECT MATTER THAT YOU TEACH?

WHAT IS YOUR CHAPTER’S FAVORITE FCCLA PROJECT OR ACTIVITY?

that technology is vital Amaris Itothink the FACS curriculum! It’s

chapter’s favorite project Amaris My is the annual rosegram

what my students know best, and it definitely keeps them engaged in the classroom. I use educational apps, online how-to videos, QR codes, and many other web tools that help our students embrace the skills taught in FACS classes while developing technology skills needed to succeed in today’s world.

fundraiser that we do for Valentine’s Day. It’s a happy day in school, and we all enjoy delivering the rosegrams to the students and faculty. The money raised this year will go to Lead2Feed.

attend adviser professional Singleton Idevelopment sessions at state and national FCCLA meetings. I also am a member of and participate in professional development at ACTE, GACTE, and GATFACS conferences throughout the year.

HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE OR INTEGRATE FCCLA IN YOUR FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES CLASSROOM? and publicizing Amaris Promoting FCCLA in the classroom is

members really get Singleton My excited when we begin the

wellness units because they know fun and exciting times are ahead! This is the time for me to tie in FCCLA’s national program Student Body, but we also incorporate a chapter service project, too. I teach my students that one of the most enjoyable forms of exercise is DANCING. What better way than to have a Zumba class! We have an instructor come in at the end of the school day, and we hold a “Zumba for the Heart” class. Students donate $5 to the American Heart Association and wear red. In the past, we have had almost 200 students participate in the class.

always ongoing! I try as often as possible to involve my students in FCCLA sponsored activities like our blood drives and our annual rosegram fundraiser. I also use the national website bank of lesson plan ideas and the Student Body program to generate lessons and projects.

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 15

STAR Events - Your Time to SHINE! During March and April, state FCCLA associations are at their busiest, participating in state conferences, officer elections, and STAR Events competitions. Local chapter advisers and members are often “stressed out” during this time of the year. There seems to be too much to do and not enough time to do it. It’s during this season that some of the shine of STAR Events may be dulled by the sheer amount of work to be done.

How do you renew the shine and show your best side at competition?

S H I N E

STAY THE COURSE. Whether you began your STAR Events project in September or just started it right before your first competition, keep revisiting the goals you set for the project when you completed the FCCLA Planning Process. If the project hasn’t quite turned out like you’d wanted, make adjustments now. Ask your adviser for help if you need another perspective on the direction of your event.

HIGHLIGHT WHAT’S IMPORTANT. Because the STAR Events project represents your work and efforts, everything you’ve done may seem important! In reality, you have a limited time to present your project – maybe just 5 minutes, depending on your event guidelines. How do you determine what to include? Review the event guidelines to make sure items listed in the event specifications and rubric are easy to find in your physical work (display, portfolio, or visual) and that your oral presentation also highlights these items. It’s your responsibility to make sure that the consultants and evaluators for your event don’t have to guess or try to find this information. If it’s not evident, they may just assume you didn’t do it!

INVITE FEEDBACK. How many times have you presented your project? You may have practiced it often, but has it been with the same few people in the room? Ask teachers or others outside of FCCLA to review your event materials and to listen to your presentation. If something isn’t clear to them, there’s a good chance it may not be clear to at least one of the event evaluators. It’s better to get this type of feedback before rather that after competition.

NAVIGATE THE COMPETITION DAY. Whether you find out ahead of time or the morning of your competition, you’ll be given a competition time for your event. Work with your team members to make sure that everyone knows where and when to meet, who is responsible for bringing items for your event, and who is carrying out the display or other items after the presentation. Create a check-off list if that helps you!

ENERGIZE. Evaluators may have seen many projects during the time they are volunteering with STAR Events. What will make yours stand out? It may just be the energy that you bring when you walk in the room! It’s normal to be nervous, but take a deep breath, remember to smile, and remember that you have worked hard to have this moment. It’s your time to shine!

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FCCLA/LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl National Champion Finalists Congratulations to the following FCCLA teams that have qualified to compete in the FCCLA/LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl at the 2016 National Leadership Conference in San Diego, California.

NATIONAL “SECOND CHANCE” QUALIFIERS Campus High, Kansas Meadvill High, Missouri Peaster High, Texas Woodrow Wilson High, Virginia

NATIONAL CLUSTER MEETING QUALIFIERS Adair High School, Oklahoma Anna High School, Ohio Boyle County High School, Kentucky Brookings High School, South Dakota Dwight High School, Illinois East Central High School, Indiana Frankfort High School, Kansas Houston High School, Georgia John P. Stevens High School, New Jersey Parkston High School, South Dakota Selah High School, Washington Wabaunsee Senior High School, Kansas

Congratulations to Meadville High for winning LifeSmart’s national FCCLA Challenge! They have earned the right to represent FCCLA at the National LifeSmarts Championship, April 9-12, 2016, in Denver, Colorado. Congratulations!

Interested in competing in the FCCLA/LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl or the FCCLA Challenge? Visit www.lifesmarts.org for more information and to sign up your team. Good luck!

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 17

THE FCCLA

PRODUCT POST www.co-store.com/fccla

|

AWESOME PRODUCTS

FCCLA STORE HIGHLIGHTS TO FIT ALL OF YOUR NEEDS

STAY WARM IN RED

BE EFFICIENT

Stay warm when the weather cools down

Keep notes, ideas, and small cards close at hand

ALWAYS BE PREPARED

SHOW YOUR SPIRIT

Stay hydrated and bring your supplies

Decorative pins or a letterman patch add spirit to any outfit or jacket

Find these great products and more online at www.fcclastore.org

“ FCCLA has more than 150,000 dedicated and hard-working members spanning across the nation. Pretty impressive, right?

Well, let’s make that number a million!

Check out these facts about our new membership campaign Go For The Red, created by the National Executive Council.

These nuggets of info can help you spread the message of FCCLA and encourage others to join the Ultimate Leadership Experience!

“

FCCLA has made a huge impact on my life. It has helped me develop many essential skills for success, and I don’t know where I would be without it.

Nathon Taylor National Vice-President of Membership

”

Over the course of FCCLA’s seventy-year existence, millions of lives have been impacted. Members know

first-hand what it is like to be a part of The Ultimate Leadership Experience, and now it is time to expand those horizons to students across the nation using FCCLA’s brand new membership campaign Go For the Red. Go For The Red seeks to expand the message of FCCLA. FCCLA is the only Career and Technical Student Organization with the family as its central focus. FCCLA seeks to promote personal growth and leadership development through Family and Consumer Sciences Education, while focusing on the multiple roles of family member, wage earner, and community leader.

Members also develop skills for life through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.

Through this campaign, students in more than 5,300 chapters gain the opportunity to share the message of FCCLA using innovative recruitment strategies. The new campaign emphasizes

Before FCCLA, I didn’t know what I could accomplish. Now I know that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

Machela Sween Chapter Officer, Mountain View, WY

”

all aspects of membership because increasing a delegation is not simply recruiting, but also finding a way to retain members and recognize participation in the organization. Go For The Red returns to the three staples of membership: recruit, retain, and recognize.

Members, chapters, and states that exemplify the standards of the campaign will be recognized for their efforts!

Members and chapters will receive cash prizes and FCCLA Store vouchers as well as recognition at the National Leadership Conference in San Diego, CA. State winners will also receive recognition at NLC, as well as a plaque on stage during the general session.

Visit the FCCLA website for more info on how to join the Ultimate Leadership Experience!

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 19

FCCLA Journeys

Army All-American Bowl Event Some people describe selfempowerment as believing in yourself, identifying your self-motivation, and finding the strength to take on new challenges. For me, selfempowerment in 2016 meant finding my inner bravery to jump out of a plane at 13,500 feet AGL (above ground level)! I took a leap of courage (literally) and had the opportunity to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I had the utmost privilege to represent FCCLA at the Army All-American Bowl events in San Antonio, Texas, from January 6 – January 10. The All-American Bowl is the Army’s year-round high school outreach program that recognizes the talent of America’s best and brightest football players and band members. I was invited on behalf of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), as FCCLA and Army ROTC have

common goals of developing and/or enhancing opportunities for students to reach their full potential as professionals, leaders, and service-oriented citizens.

The events allowed me to directly engage with Army soldiers, civilians, and cadets as well as network with other influential professionals that share interest in providing leadership opportunities to youth across the nation. We had the chance to take a tour of Fort Sam Houston to see what life on an Army base is like, listen to cadets talk about their experience in the ROTC program and how it challenged them to enhance their leadership skills, and also learn about the many career opportunities with the Army – including STEM and medical careers. In addition to learning about America’s Army, I was honored to share the FCCLA story and enjoyed telling others about our over 150,000 youth leaders across the nation.

The most exciting (and nerveracking) part of this experience was finding out that I was also selected as 1 of 15 guests to participate in a tandem skydive jump with the World Champion U.S. Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights. While I had never been skydiving before, I figured if I was ever going to do it I might as well jump with one of the country’s best parachutist! Staff Sergeant James Hackett was my tandem instructor and quickly calmed my fears after sharing with me he had over 1,800 freefall jumps.

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Although it was quite terrifying standing in an open doorway of an airplane at 13,500 feet knowing I was about to jump out of it, the jump was by far the most exhilarating thing I’ve ever done!

Words can’t describe the feeling of free falling in the sky, overlooking the world below you. It truly was an experience of a lifetime.

My trip to the Army All-American Bowl taught me so many different things, and I will always be grateful for the amazing opportunity.

Sometimes in life we are given the opportunity to do something great or something we’ve never had the courage to do before. At first, it might seem scary, but once you take that first step, you realize it wasn’t as bad or difficult as you had imagined, and the reward is definitely worth it! This year, I hope all of you to feel empowered to go after something you’ve always wanted or to try something new.

Whether it is running for state office, applying to present a workshop at a national meeting, or leading a new chapter project, I urge all of you to take that leap of courage!

HEATHER DAVIS, FCCLA PARTNERSHIP MANAGER

FCCLA’s Unite In Red Fund - Red Jacket Awards This year on #GivingRedTuesday, National FCCLA raised $2,623 - enough funds to purchase 38 red FCCLA jackets!

Through this campaign, National FCCLA started the Unite in Red Fund – Red Jacket Awards. The Unite in Red Fund – Red Jacket Awards kicked off in January and will continue throughout the school year. FCCLA members can apply for a jacket or advisers can nominate an outstanding member. One jacket will be awarded each month, and, in addition to the monthly awards, ten FCCLA members will be awarded a red jacket on stage at the 2016 National Leadership Conference in San Diego, CA. For more information, please visit the links below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ GVDL35J (FCCLA members who want to apply for the red jacket awards) https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/ GV6L57V (FCCLA advisers who want to nominate a member for the red jacket awards) OUR JANUARY 2016 UNITE IN RED FUND – RED JACKET AWARDS WINNER: Makaylie Langford, a 10th grader from UT, was our very first recipient of the Red Jacket Awards.

“When I joined FCCLA my freshman year, I was shy, awkward, and insecure; I had no leadership skills whatsoever. Now, I can say with certainty that this is no longer an accurate description of me. FCCLA has empowered me to be a leader in my life, my family, my chapter, my school, and my community, and has helped me to develop skills and abilities I didn’t even know I had. My freshman year, I participated in the Illustrated Talk STAR Event and learned so much about public speaking and how to talk to people without becoming absolutely sick with nerves. I received the top score in my category at state leadership conference and went on to earn a gold medal at NLC in Washington, D.C., that summer. I had so much support through my whole competition experience from my parents, my adviser, and my fellow members who had unshakable faith in me, even when I couldn’t say the same about myself.

These experiences and others with FCCLA have enabled me to be a leader in my community and chapter, where I serve as the vice-president of membership and the only sophomore officer in our chapter, something I never would have been able to do before. A staple of our organization are the colors white and red. I particularly like red because it represents the personal qualities of strength, determination, and courage. Seeing red reminds me to be a brave leader and represent FCCLA. Because red is such a bright, bold color, I am always reminded to stand out and be bold as well. When people see FCCLA members wearing the blazers, they’re curious and want to know more about the young leaders in the bright red. The blazers make a statement wherever they go and open conversations about our great organization.

I love having those conversations, and think they will multiply when I wear a red blazer.”

CONGRATULATIONS, MAKAYLIE! March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 21

! r e w o P

r e n t r a P

In the SPOTLIGHT now: • • •

FORD DRIVING SKILLS FOR LIFE We are thrilled to announce that Ford Driving Skills for Life (Ford DSFL), a huge supporter of our FACTS program, will host a hands-on drivers training clinic at our 2016 National Leadership Conference! Members will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel and learn new driving skills from professional racecar drivers who are also Ford DSFL driving instructors.

Ford DSFL teaches teens the necessary skills for safe driving beyond what was learned in standard drivers education and helps young drivers improve their skills in four key areas that are critical factors in more than 60% of vehicle crashes, including: • Hazard Recognition

22 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

Vehicle Handling Speed Management Space Management

The program also addresses distracted and impaired driving. In addition to the hands-on training, the FREE program includes: •

•

The www.drivingskillsforlife.com website where you will find training modules, car care videos, interactive games, hands-on tour schedule, The Pledge, a point system with a chance to score free prizes, and more.

An electronic educator packet that can be used by students and parents at home, as well as educators in the classroom or community settings.

You can also follow Ford DSFL on Twitter, Instagram (@FordDSFL #FordDSFL), and Facebook (Ford Driving Skills for Life) for fun facts, graphics, giveaways, and more.

VISA INC.’S PRACTICAL MONEY SKILLS FOR LIFE For 20 years, Visa has been a private sector leader in developing innovative, free programs that help people effectively learn the fundamentals of personal finance, including budgeting, saving, spending responsibly, and using credit wisely. Visa’s Practical Money Skills for Life program offers free financial education resources to help students – and people of all ages – gain the knowledge and skills they need for a strong financial future.

Visa has developed entertaining and engaging programs, online games, financial calculators, mobile apps, and other materials to teach money management skills to everyone, focusing on topics ranging from budgeting and saving to responsible spending and the wise use of credit.

Visa also offers classroom curriculum for grades 9-12 that includes activities and projects related to financial goals, including saving for college, career planning, using credit wisely, dealing with identity theft, budgeting, saving, banking, managing income, paying off debt, and investing to help students succeed in life after college. To encourage students to start saving now, Visa’s free Plan’it Prom app helps teens and parents combat the high cost of prom by budgeting for every prom-related expense. The app is available for iOS and Android devices.

FCCLA enjoys partnering with Visa for our national program Financial Fitness. We hope you will check out Visa’s resources to help you stay financially fit!

Learn more: practicalmoneyskills.com @PracticalMoney

KENDALL COLLEGE Just like FCCLA promotes personal growth and leadership development, Kendall College prides itself in getting its students ready for the world upon graduation.

Kendall’s campus is ideally situated in one of the most vibrant hospitality and business centers in the world – home to more than 4,700 restaurants and 29 Fortune 500 companies. The city of Chicago acts as the student’s living classroom and provides hands-on learning opportunities within the industry. Kendall College is a great place where students can study culinary arts, baking and pastry, hospitality management, or business.

Kendall’s innovative approach to learning gives students a professional edge.

A global perspective is incorporated into the Kendall experience. As a member of the Laureate International Universities network, students have the opportunity to learn at institutions all over the world.

Kendall College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, its culinary arts and baking and pastry programs are accredited by the American Culinary Federation.

Kendall College provides great benefits to our organization, advisers, and members through scholarship offers, adviser training modules, summer camp discounts, and much more. Check out their website to learn more!

Learn more: Kendall.edu Teen Summer Camps: kendall.edu/camps April 30 Open House: kendall.edu/OH @KendallCollege

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 23

Answers: Black tie turned red, wristwatch removed, FCCLA logo on girl removed, bowtie removed, FCCLA logo added on girl’s shirt, pearl necklace removed, FCCLA logo on name badge moved to other corner

24 Teen Times www.fcclainc.org March/April 2016

Can you find the seven differences between the two images below?

Spot the Changes

2016 Capitol Leadership Washington D.C., is regularly known for the Capitol, the White House, and many other attractions, but for the four days of Capitol Leadership, it is known for FCCLA! This September 28-October 1, FCCLA members from across the nation will storm Capitol Hill, demanding FCCLA be seen and heard. Through this unique gathering, FCCLA members and advisers have the opportunity to participate in advocacy training, develop a state and national public policy plan, meet with members of Congress and federal officials, and explore the nation’s capital.

Capitol Leadership will allow student leaders to dive into FCCLA and become expert advocates through training sessions. While attending the conference, students will take part in trainings that teach professionalism, communication, public speaking skills, and much more. After learning about advocacy and becoming armed with the knowledge they need to know, chapter members and officers will take part in Capitol Hill simulations to prepare them to meet with public officials about Career and Technical Education.

Attendees will participate in a service project that empowers student leadership and touches the D.C. community. Lead2Feed is a service-learning program that fosters teamwork in an effort to help students learn and develop key leadership skills as they take action to solve real life hunger issues.

Every day provides something new, as each session gives members hands-on experiences. In addition to special guests and speakers, Capitol Leadership brings members together from across the nation to provide networking opportunities and friendships that will last a lifetime!

Capitol Leadership is open to all nationally affiliated FCCLA members and advisers. So join youth leaders and advisers from across the country at the nation’s capital September 28-October 1 to develop your leadership skills, learn about government relations, and meet with elected officials to advocate for Family and Consumer Sciences education and related topics. Through advocating, networking, creating memories, and public relations, we all can enjoy The Ultimate Leadership Experience!

Participants can take what they learn about family mealtime and the importance of nutrition education and apply it to improving policy at the local, state, and national levels.

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 25

Make Plans for the 2016 National Cluster Meetings!

Get ready for a successful college experience, and get ready to be leaders in our future careers.

Those attending the action-packed 2016 National Cluster Meeting are guaranteed to feel confident about becoming financially fit for life.

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FCCLA has made it a goal to help our members prepare for college and careers, while also becoming a stronger leader in their communities at the National Cluster Meetings. Chapters can choose to travel to Denver, Colorado (November 4-6), or Orlando, Florida (November 18-20), to engage in Competitive Events and listen to vibrant youth and adult speakers.

able to discuss various issues related to college readiness. Representatives will be able to answer your questions about completing applications, choosing the right major, and funding education.

And who knows? You may just find your dream college during the meeting!

Denver and Orlando will also be hosting some of the most outstanding FCCLA National Program workshop presenters. Chapter members will serve as peer educators as they inform others about all the possibilities available with FCCLA’s National Programs. In addition to the FCCLA National Program workshops, there will be presentations from FCCLA partners and exhibitors on a variety of subjects.

Chapters can choose to

travel to Denver, Colorado

If you plan on attending one of these dynamic meetings, consider participating in a Skill Demonstration Event or the FCCLA/LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl. Skill Demonstration Events provide members a unique chance to display Family and Consumer Sciences-related occupation skills. Events available this year include Culinary Food Art, Culinary Knife Skills, Fashion Sketch, FCCLA Creed Speaking & Interpretation, Impromptu Speaking, Speak Out for FCCLA, Toys that Teach, and five different Challenge events: Consumer Math; Culinary Math; Early Childhood; Hospitality, Tourism and Recreation; and Sciences in FACS. With so many options, there is sure to be a choice perfect for any attendee’s career goals.

(November 4-6), or Orlando, Florida (November 18-20).

For those of you who are searching for an opportunity to advance to competition at the 2017 National Leadership Conference and are quick on a buzzer, be sure to register a team for the FCCLA/ LifeSmarts Knowledge Bowl. You and your team members’ knowledge of all aspects of Family and Consumer Sciences will be challenged with a written test and head-to-head competition.

NCM attendees will have the opportunity to meet exhibitors from across the country as well as representatives from area colleges. You’ll even be

Leadership Academy courses will also be offered at the National Cluster Meeting! Members can participate in the sessions offered for course credit. If you aren’t part of this Ultimate Leadership Experience yet, you can register for Leadership Academy and get in on the fun and learning.

Where would we be without our advisers?

Along with youth training events will be adviser professional development sessions. Advisers can network with other educators from across the nation and increase their knowledge in how to reach more students with Family and Consumer Sciences.

FCCLA is providing the sessions, trainings, and resources. Now it’s your turn to get involved and take advantage of the incredible information presented during the National Cluster Meetings and apply it to your future. Who’s ready to join us in Denver or Orlando? You!

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 27

FCCLA...In Action

Check out the FCCLA action happening all across the nation!

Want to be featured in FCCLA In Action? Email your story to communications@ fcclainc.org for consideration, and include photos of your event.

Hubbertville FCCLA Members of the Hubbertville FCCLA chapter, Alabama, attended the Alabama Joint Leadership Development Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. The conference is the premier leadership event for youth and is the largest nonathletic gathering of youth for an educational purpose in Alabama. The event brought in more than 8,000 top students preparing to make Alabama the leading state for work, family, fun, community, and great living! Members were also able to meet State Superintendent of Education Dr. Bice.

Sutton FCCLA The Sutton FCCLA chapter, Nebraska, held a “Purple Out” fundraiser at one of their home volleyball games to raise money for Jessica Nuss, a past FCCLA member, who is suffering from cystic fibrosis. The chapter held a cake raffle where they raffled off purple cakes, cupcakes, and baskets. The Sutton chapter also sold purple “Team Jessica” t-shirts, raising a total of $1,373.18! With this money, the chapter bought Jessica a computer so she can keep in touch with her family and friends, as she will be moving to Houston, Texas, while she waits for a lung and liver transplant. The remainder of the money was donated to her medical fund.

Perry High FCCLA Perry High FCCLA, Georgia, was empowered by the spirit of giving this holiday season as they joined hands with Perry Volunteer Outreach to help pack boxes of food for families in the middle Georgia area. Many FCCLA members were in attendance to lend a helping hand. Some were divided among food packing stations, while other students pushed carts holding boxes to each station in order for them to be filled. When asked why they chose to participate, most students said that they simply enjoy helping others.

Pioneer Pleasant Vale FCCLA Senator Patrick Anderson proclaimed the week beginning with February 7th as National FCCLA Week for the Pioneer Pleasant Vale FCCLA chapter, Oklahoma, and urged all citizens to acquaint themselves with the activities and values of FCCLA, to show interest in it, and to give help and encouragement to the young men and women who are working to achieve knowledge and experience that will help prepare them for future responsibilities as active and concerned adult members of society.

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FCCLA Faces Leadership is not a position. It’s an action! FCCLA has proven this to be true. You’re not just empowering yourself by having a position in your community, but you are showing others how they can succeed with the skills they have and the actions they take.

Uriel Martinez, Georgia Region 4 Officer I can empower others to succeed by helping them accomplish goals they have set. I can do this by motivating them to carry out their goals and assisting them in properly planning how they will achieve them. Keeping someone’s spirits up and giving a clear map for them to follow can definitely help them succeed.

Katelyn Dunavant, Hubbertville FCCLA Member Participating in FCCLA has pushed me to try new things, step outside my comfort zone, and grow as a leader. As a result, I have become empowered.

I’m convinced that everyone has incredible potential. Some just need someone to believe in them before they can see it.

Makaylie Langford, Canyon View High School FCCLA Member It’s simple! Invite them to become part of The Ultimate Leadership Experience! But don’t stop there. Nothing empowers a student more than involvement in FCCLA projects and programs. Invite them to actively participate. These activities build leadership skills for life.

Madison Comer, Page County FCCLA Member

Q.

What does empowering to succeed mean to you?

I can empower others to succeed through leading by example, working my hardest to achieve high goals I have set for myself, being positive both in and out of school, and by showing others I value their success as well as my own. FCCLA has provided many opportunities to lead by example.

Annie Stickney, Kittitas Secondary School FCCLA Member Do things together! You give and gain confidence by sharing your thoughts and advice with others, and it doesn’t take much to make a connection with someone.

Motivational leader Paul J. Meyers said, “Communication – the human connection – is the key to personal and career success.” So reinforce your connections and build a better, more empowered you!

Ashley Pournaras, FCCLA Senior Communications Manager Success can be found in everyone.

This is exactly why it is important that FCCLA members empower those around them to succeed.

Things like STAR Events, state events, national programs, and more are the perfect platforms to empower those around you to succeed. Does your friend want to live a healthier lifestyle? Direct them towards the new Student Body program. Fellow classmates struggling to finance college?

Steer them towards the Financial Fitness program. Spreading the word about FCCLA’s programs and events could be the perfect way to help your peers succeed!

Nathon Taylor, National Vice-President of Membership

March/April 2016 www.fcclainc.org Teen Times 29

Facebook

/NationalFCCLA

@New Rockford-Sheyenne Public Schools : It’s FCCLA Week this week! We are having a food drive all this week - please bring non-perishable food items to the FACS room at the school! One of FCCLA’s national projects this year is supporting Lead to Feed, a national drive to end hunger. @Sahvanna Mease: Vista ridge and Skyview middle school fccla at the state Capitol!

Twitter @virginiafccla: If you can, tune in to your local NBC station this morning to try to catch the National #FCCLA officers on live tv! @ShaneFeldman : Happy #FCCLAWeek to my extended #FCCLA family! :) So much love & respect for you all. @NationalFCCLA @LeadtoFeed

Instagram @pierce_fccla: Working hard to get ready for National FCCLA Week! #fcclafamily @montana_blair: Today was a pretty proud day as 3 “generations” of region one FCCLA State Officers came together. Our FCCLA family continues to grow & we couldn’t be happier. @virginiafccla: #VAFCCLA is excited to be celebrating #CTE month throughout February! #FCCLA #FACS

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/NationalFCCLA

/NationalFCCLA

/NationalFCCLA

FCCLAinc.org/blog

NationalFCCLA1945

NLC San Diego July 3-7, 2016

THIS YEAR AT FCCLA’S NATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE:

• hear inspiring speakers • expand leadership skills • explore career pathways FIND OUT MORE ONLINE:

• www.fcclainc.org