At Wayne Hills, DECA is a club that prepares students to be active leaders in their community and future business-related endeavors. Here, students learn skills in marketing, finance, hospitality, management, and more. Not only does DECA strive to help students grow and learn, but it also encourages them to give back to the community through their yearly community service events.
This year, with over 100 members, DECA was able to raise around $1,000 for the American Cancer Society! A few weeks ago, DECA sold Gertrude Hawk chocolate bars to the students of Wayne Hills. These chocolates, priced at $2 each, were so popular because of their delicious flavors and fair price. DECA members would bring a full box of chocolates to sell during lunch and by the end of the day, the box would often be empty!
The American Cancer Society is a not-for-profit national organization that works to find a cure for cancer. As co-officers Rishika Mussani and Medha Limaye explained, the money raised through the chocolate sales would go towards cancer patients “getting the proper treatment to receiving better community support.” Additionally, the two stated that the American Cancer Society “assist[s] in the day-to-day processes of getting patients the help that they need.” Because of the righteous aim of this national organization, DECA decided to extend its selling window from one week to two weeks.
As a club, DECA completes a yearly community service project to receive recognition at state competitions, and more importantly, to give back to the community. This year, state competitions are held at Atlantic City in March. While not all DECA members compete in states, those who qualify during Regional Testing or submit a paper get this opportunity. Don’t forget to support your friends and classmates as they compete in Regionals, States, and maybe even Nationals!
For seventy-five years, DECA has been centered around not only educating students about the world of business but serving the community in more ways than one. It has positively impacted many students, teachers, administrators, and even business professionals. For those of you who bought chocolate, thank you for helping DECA thrive in doing what matters most, helping others. Stay tuned for next year’s community service event and get ready to help out even more people!
