WCHS DECA Students Lead the Way in Supporting H.A.R.T.S. Shelter

Warren County High School (WCHS) DECA students have once again proven their leadership and commitment to community service by spearheading a successful campaign to support the Hope And Rest Temporary Shelter (H.A.R.T.S.). The initiative combined a comprehensive donation drive and a promotional effort to raise awareness about homelessness and the shelter’s critical role in the Front Royal/Warren County community.

A Multi-Faceted campaign for a Worthy Cause

The project, led by DECA students Sophia Lamendola, Joseph MacDougall, and Erika Navarro, was a shining example of teamwork and innovative problem-solving. The campaign collected clothing, toiletries, non-perishable food, and other essentials for H.A.R.T.S. while spotlighting the shelter’s mission.

Project Managers (L – R): Sophia Lamendola, Joseph MacDougall, & Erika Navarro

In October, WCHS digital marketing students worked on integrated marketing plans to amplify the shelter’s message. Utilizing both social media and traditional print media, students crafted engaging campaigns to encourage community involvement. They even assisted H.A.R.T.S. during the Fall Festival of Leaves, raising awareness and gathering donations from festival-goers.

As the project progressed, the project managers led an all-school push in November. Donation points were set up throughout the school, and announcements rallied students and staff to contribute. The collected items were sorted, packaged, and delivered with care, demonstrating the students’ dedication to making a meaningful impact.

A Community Comes Together

Erika Navarro, one of the project managers, expressed pride in the collective effort. “Our goal was to bring our school and community together to support H.A.R.T.S. and make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness,” she said. “Through teamwork, creative outreach, and the generosity of our peers, we successfully organized a donation drive that provided essential resources to the shelter.”

The campaign benefited H.A.R.T.S. and inspired a spirit of giving within WCHS. Students, faculty, and staff worked together, demonstrating the power of collective action to address local challenges.

A Lasting Impact

Michelle Smeltzer, President of the H.A.R.T.S. board, accepted the donations with gratitude, commending the students for their hard work and dedication. The success of this campaign reflects the student’s ability to take on real-world challenges and create solutions that benefit their community.

Michelle Smeltzer, President of the H.A.R.T.S. board accepting donations.

By combining marketing savvy, leadership skills, and a passion for service, the WCHS DECA team showed how young people can make a tangible difference. Their efforts stand as a testament to the power of community engagement and the impact of working toward a shared goal.