While National Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Week is observed from February 9-15, the FBLA groups in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) are active year-round, helping their peers become leaders through career preparation and leadership experiences. One of the most impactful ways for students to engage is through community service.

Battlefield High School organized a community engagement event at Alvey Elementary School, which was a collaborative effort involving students, teachers, and parents. “The event not only allowed us to engage with and give back to our community, but it also helped our team sharpen our planning, teamwork, and organizational skills,” explained Shaivya and Shivali Verma, Battlefield High students and communication directors for the FBLA at the school.

Members of the FBLA at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School are advocating for a “take one or leave one” cart to be placed in the cafeteria. This cart would allow students to leave non-perishable food for others or take items they need.

"It's estimated that one in seven school-aged children in Virginia face food insecurity. FBLA members understand that serving others is both a responsibility and an act of kindness,” stated Carla Jordan, business education teacher at Colgan High.

The FBLA group at Osbourn Park High School visited Pennington Traditional School to engage with a group of middle school students in leadership activities. “Our goal was to educate and excite Pennington middle schoolers on leadership and how the Future Business Leaders of America organization focuses their efforts around community service, leadership activities, and business education,” shared Melanie Ali, business education teacher at Osbourn Park High.

The Woodbridge High School FBLA attended the Town of Occoquan’s town hall meeting, where they successfully advocated for the official designation of FBLA Week, winning with an unanimous vote. “Each year, across the country, from middle school to college, FBLA seeks to inspire and prepare students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences,” shared Seth Wayland, social studies teacher at Woodbridge High.

The dedication and efforts of FBLA groups in PWCS demonstrate the significant impact that student-led initiatives can have on both their peers and the broader community. Through various activities and projects, these students are not only developing essential leadership skills but also fostering a sense of responsibility and community service.