This year, Wayne Hills FBLA members seek to Inspire and Honor our veterans for the chapter’s community project. Our veterans and current military fight for this country to protect us, and they should be given gratitude. The goals of this year’s project are to encourage veterans to share their stories, to provide support and supplies, to commemorate their efforts and dedication to our country, to inspire future generations about joining the military, to raise awareness about veteran homes and admirable soldiers, and to incorporate participation for veteran projects. FBLA project directors felt that these heroes should be honored and appreciated. We should uphold their legacy by promoting military opportunities and encouraging new generations to carry on their work.
The first part of this mission occurred on Friday, January 24 when FBLA members were tasked with writing Valentine’s Day cards to veterans. Many members made these cards more personal and formatted their writing in a Pen Pal writing style to further express their gratitude for the heroes of our country. With colorful paper and lots of markers, FBLA members were able to create over 50 wonderful cards for a wonderful cause.
After much success with the Valentine’s Day cards, the FBLA project directors announced the second part of their community service project. On January 31, members were invited to attend a Military Career Pathways Seminar. Lieutenant Commander Ardizzone from the US Naval Academy, Officer Kramer, and Officer Noll spoke about their many interesting experiences with the military and the many opportunities and life lessons they learned throughout their adventures. Students were deeply moved by these guest speakers and hung back for a few minutes to ask further questions. Even non-FBLA members were allowed to attend the seminar, and many showed up in support of our veterans.
For the third phase of the operation, Wayne Hills FBLA organized a Veteran Senior Home Drive to support and uplift veterans in need. Partnering with Paramus Veterans Memorial Home, the chapter collected essential items including clothing, games, personal care products, and patriotic-themed gifts. A donation box, decorated with flyers and announcements, was placed at the school’s main office, encouraging students and faculty to contribute. The main objective was to foster a spirit of generosity within the chapter. Thanks to the overwhelming support from the Wayne Hills community, a significant number of items were gathered and personally delivered to the veterans, ensuring they felt appreciated and remembered.
Through Operation: Inspire and Honor, Wayne Hills FBLA successfully strengthened the bond between students and veterans, creating an impactful service project that extended beyond the classroom. From heartfelt Valentine’s Day cards to an eye-opening Military Career Pathways Seminar and a meaningful Veteran Senior Home Drive, each initiative reflected the chapter’s deep appreciation for those who have served. The project not only honored veterans but also educated and inspired students to consider military pathways and engage in future service efforts. As FBLA looks ahead, the chapter remains committed to fostering awareness, gratitude, and support for our nation’s heroes—because honoring those who protect our freedom is a mission that never ends.
