Gather, Grow, Give: Inspiring Students to Lead, Encourage and Give Back

The non-profit, student-run club, The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is seeking funding to support students gatherings, special events, outreach projects and service opportunities throughout the school year. This club is open to all students and provides a welcoming environment where students can gather with their peers, build positive relationships, encourage one another, hear inspiring guest speakers and put their faith into action through service to others. The club seeks to create an atmosphere of respect, encouragement and positive relationships within the school community.

Each week, students will gather for the FCA club meeting during lunch. The meetings will either be a special guest speaker, a service project or school engaging project, small groups or fellowship day. FCA give students the opportunity to come together with a shared purpose and that is to encourage one another, grow in character and faith and use their influence to make a positive difference in the lives of others. FCA's influence extends beyond membership as well as classroom experience. Students are encouraged to share positive messages and acts of kindness with others through the school. They learn that being a part of a school community carries the responsibility to contribute positively to the larger community. The students will hear from positive role models in the community who demonstrate how faith, character, leadership can work together. Through guest speakers, group discussions, service and fellowship, students are encouraged to understand that leadership is not simply about performance or winning. It is also about how they treat others, respond to challenges and use their influence to make a positive difference.

*Provides students with positive peer support as they face academic, social, athletic and personal pressures throughout the year. FCA gives students a consistent place where they can find encouragement from peers who want to support one another and make positive choices. *Develops student leadership by providing opportunities for students to take responsibility for meetings, service projects, special events and outreach activities while not being burdened by financial restrictions. These experiences help students develop leadership, communication, organization and teamwork skills that can benefit them well beyond high school. *Promotes positive character development through qualities the club encourages such as integrity, compassion, perseverance, humility, responsibility and service. These characteristics are valuable not only in athletics but also in the classroom, workplace, family and community. *Encourages serving others through community outreach opportunities like Operation Christmas Child. Students have the chance to volunteer their time and resources outside of the students' immediate circle and recognizing opportunities to help others. *Strengthens the school community through small acts of encouragement that can make meaningful impact. *Encourages students to become servant leaders as they will have opportunities to consider what they can give to others rather than what they can receive from the club. The service projects will teach students to recognize needs and respond with compassion and action.

The club plans to host at least five special guest meetings (with school approval), with $200 allocated for pizza and refreshments at each of those meetings. These gatherings will meet during the lunch period and will give student an opportunity to share a meal while listening to guest speakers who can encourage them in areas such as leadership, character, perseverance, integrity, athletics and making positive choices. Additionally, we are requesting $400 to support activities throughout the year including: *Providing club shirts to those who cannot afford to buy one *Cookie exchange around winter break *Supplies to invite students to join the club at Club Rush *Small trinkets or encouraging items that club members can share with members of the school community *Cards, notes and other materials designed to communicate positive and encouraging messages *Supplies for volunteer and service projects, include the club's annual participation in Operation Christmas Child. These activities allow FCA to move beyond weekly meetings and demonstrate the commitment to serving the broader school community in a positive and impactful way.

1400

Pizzas for special guest events (at least 5)

1000.00

Supplies for outreach, service projects and other events

400.00