Blue Santa has been a traditional and cherished Vista Ridge event since 2016, but have you ever wondered who organizes the beloved holiday game and library activities? FCCLA, one of the school’s various organizations, works hard every holiday season to make the event the best it can be. However, Blue Santa is not their only focus, as FCCLA is a co-curricular club that works to promote family and community throughout the Ridge.
FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) is a national non-profit organization with a local chapter at our school. Throughout the year, club members participate in various committees and prepare for their annual competition in spring. Students create projects relating to Family and Consumer Services areas such as interior design and nutrition.
“FCCLA members compete in regional competitive events at the end of January,” FCCLA sponsor Ms. Green said. “Students are able to advance to state and national competitions as well.”
The club’s main goal in the first semester is preparing for the big competition. When creating their projects, students are given the opportunity to expand on their passions and explore their desired career paths. With a wide range of specializations and creative freedom, competitors find the experience teaches them valuable life skills and prepares them to excel in their field.
“As the vice president of FCCLA, I am in charge of organizing the Homecoming Parade and Trunk or Treat committees,” junior Faith Pacelli said. “I also manage the annual toy collection and donations for Blue Santa.”
FCCLA gives students many opportunities to be leaders in their community. Throughout the year, officers get to plan events, help organize meetings, and have fun as well. Having a leadership position in the club teaches members to work with others better, be a good example for their peers, and gain confidence in valuable skills such as public speaking. It’s a great club to prepare students for success in all areas of life.
“Some of the more fun activities we do throughout the year are committees,” senior Michelle Faghih said. “The committees include Blue Santa, Trunk or Treat, and the Homecoming parade.”
Although members are busy preparing for competitive events, there are still various opportunities for them to be involved at the Ridge. FCCLA begins its year during Homecoming by creating a float to showcase at the parade. In October, the club participates in the annual Trunk or Treat celebration. This year, students had fun dressing up as minions and handing candy to kids. Lastly, they organize the annual Blue Santa fundraiser to provide toys and food for families and children in need during the holiday season.
“I enjoy being a member of FCCLA,” Faghih said. “It allows me to learn from other people, work together as a team, and give back to our community.”
