DECA Chapter Strategy Guide

DECA PREPARES EMERGING LEADERS AND ENTREPRENEURS IN MARKETING, FINANCE, HOSPITALITY AND MANAGEMENT

OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES DECA’S COMPREHENSIVE LEARNING PROGRAM

An integral component of classroom instruction, DECA activities provide authentic, experiential learning methods to prepare members for college and careers.

DECA members put their knowledge into action through rigorous project-based activities that require creative solutions with practical outcomes.

Partnerships with businesses at local and broader levels provide DECA members realistic insight into industry and promote meaningful, relevant learning.

As in the global economy, a spark of competition drives DECA members to excel and improve their performance.

DECA PREPARES THE NEXT GENERATION TO BE

DECA members are ambitious, high-achieving leaders equipped to conquer the challenges of their aspirations.

Recognizing the benefit of service and responsibility to the community, DECA members continually impact and improve their local and broader communities.

DECA members are poised professionals with ethics, integrity and high standards.

DECA members are empowered through experience to provide effective leadership through global setting, consensus building and project implementation.

DECA Chapter Strategy

Effective DECA advisors use strategy to develop an intentional plan to create a strong DECA chapter. DECA’s Chapter Strategy provides the framework and resources to develop your chapter in a business-like context, helping your members apply learning. Think of your DECA chapter as a small business or corporation— complete with a leadership team, goals, a program of leadership and project management techniques, all supporting DECA’s mission.

Strategy is essential to any successful enterprise and entrepreneurial leader. The key job of the DECA executive leader is recognizing how people, ideas and resources come together to achieve results for stakeholders. Understanding the core elements of a successful DECA Chapter Strategy is the first step toward realizing the full potential of your chapter—and the first step of strategy is understanding and believing in the importance of the mission.

As a DECA advisor, you are part of a network of nearly 6,000 educators who enrich their classrooms and extend their students learning through DECA. When implemented successfully, DECA makes classroom learning more engaging. Get an overview of how to develop a strategy for your chapter and discover resources to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. This is how we do DECA!

This chapter strategy guidebook is intended for DECA advisors to use with their chapter members and includes modules with lesson plans and student worksheets that can be duplicated. It can be used as a road map of how DECA advisors and members can implement to manage their DECA chapter effectively.

Each module includes:

• Performance Indicators

• Educator Overview

• Student Learning Activities

Each module provides a general outline of the above bullet points and a means to accomplish them. Still, it is by no means exhaustive, and we encourage you to integrate additional resources specific to your association and chapter.

Discover more resources at deca.org/resources

21st CENTURY SKILLS

CRITICAL THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING

• Use various types of reasoning as appropriate to the situation

• Analyze how parts of a whole interact with each other to produce overall outcomes in complex systems

• Interpret information and draw conclusions based on the best analysis

COMMUNICATION

• Articulate thoughts and ideas effectively using oral, written and nonverbal communication skills in a variety of forms and contexts

• Listen effectively to decipher meaning, including knowledge, values, attitudes and intentions

• Use communication for a range of purposes

• Utilize multiple media and technologies, and know how to judge their effectiveness a priori as well as assess their impact

COLLABORATION

• Demonstrate ability to work effectively and respectfully with diverse teams

• Exercise flexibility and willingness to be helpful in making necessary compromises to accomplish a common goal

• Assume shared responsibility for collaborative work, and value the individual contributions made by each team member

CREATIVITY + INNOVATION

• Use a wide range of idea creation techniques

• Elaborate, refine, analyze and evaluate their own ideas in order to improve and maximize creative efforts

• Develop, implement and communicate new ideas to others effectively

• Act on creative ideas to make a tangible and useful contribution to the field in which the innovation will occur

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Module 1

LET’S TALK ABOUT DECA

The DECA experience starts in the classroom, where students learn business concepts in preparation for college and careers. Learn how to introduce your students to DECA.

Module 2

DECA EMERGING LEADERS + ENTREPRENEURS

Ensure your chapter officers are stand-out ambassadors for the brand and mission of DECA. Help your members craft a response to “What is DECA?” that showcases their unique DECA experience and tells their personal DECA story.

Module 3

DECA LEADERSHIP STYLES

The DECA Leadership Styles assessment will allow your members to discover insights into who they are as a leader. Students will identify their sweet spots and blind spots as a DECA leader.

Module 4 DECA LEADERSHIP TEAM

Learn how to build a leadership team worth following! Understand DECA’s Mission-based Officer Structure and position responsibilities.

Module 5

DECA GOALS

DECA Goals provide a menu of suggested DECA chapter activities from DECA’s Comprehensive Learning Program. Learn DECA’s goal setting process to ensure your chapter leadership team is successful.

4

Module 6

DECA PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP

Bring together DECA goals and action items for the year into one strategic leadership plan that sets the direction and goals for your chapter.

Module 7

DECA CHAPTER CAMPAIGNS

7

Engage your members in DECA activities throughout the year using DECA’s Chapter Campaigns as your guide!

Module 8

DECA CHAPTER BUDGET

Unleash your chapter’s fundraising potential and learn valuable business financial principles through the DECA Diamond Fundraising model.

13

Module 9

DECA CHAPTER COMMUNICATIONS

Create a strategic communications plan for your chapter by effectively creating content, sharing content and driving engagement.

19

Module 10 DECA TRAVEL

24

One of the perks of DECA membership is the opportunity to learn while traveling in professional business style. Learn DECA travel tips to ensure a successful educational conference!

Module 11 COOL IDEAS

Explore unique membership, promotion, community service, advocacy and fundraising, ideas to engage your members and create a thriving local chapter.

37

43

47

Let’s Talk About DECA

Your chapter is part of a chartered association that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. At the local level, members can choose from an array of international learning programs supported by your chartered association and integrate them into classroom instruction to make learning vibrant and relevant.

The DECA experience starts in the classroom, where students learn business concepts in preparation for college and careers. A powerful instructional component, DECA brings the classroom to life by empowering the teacher-advisor to make learning relevant with educational programs that integrate into classroom instruction, apply learning, connect to business and promote competition. The successful integration of these four interconnected components, also part of DECA’s guiding principles, results in a strong program that produces college-and careerready students.

DECA chapters are organized around courses, programs of study, academies or other career and technical education programs. High school chapters are recognized by chartered associations, which set eligibility guidelines for membership in a specific state, province or territory. In many cases, high school students interested in marketing, entrepreneurship, finance, hospitality or management join DECA when they are enrolled in a course within these content areas taught by a teacher who also serves as the DECA advisor. With this close connection to the curriculum, DECA members and advisors can integrate DECA activities into the classroom, apply the classroom experience to project-based activities, connect to business partners at all levels and utilize competition to improve their performance.

Local chapters are unincorporated student organizations operating under the authority of the local school district and the chartered association. Chapters (not referred to as a “club”) are comprised of student members, chapter advisors, professional members and alumni members. Chapters shall comply with all policies set forth by the local school district and their chartered association. When policies of the local school district differ from those of the chartered association, the chapter shall comply with the most restrictive policies.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Explain the organizational design of businesses

• Discuss the global environment in which businesses operate

• Describe factors that affect the business environment

• Explain how organizations adapt to today’s markets

• Explain the nature of organizational culture

INTRODUCE DECA TO YOUR STUDENTS

Any student enrolled in your class is eligible to join DECA. Some ideas for introducing DECA are below.

DECA’s Membership Video

Show DECA’s promotional membership video, review the criteria for DECA membership and share the possibilities that come from joining the organization. Give students information about how to join, including dues, deadlines and a calendar of activities.

Explore videos at deca.org/brand

DECA Role-play Practice

Find one of DECA’s role-plays that supports a classroom concept you just covered. Have your students independently write a solution to the role-play, and then pair up your students and have them take turns being the participant and the judge. After they’ve completed the activity, explain how it’s similar to DECA and how they can earn recognition and awards.

Learn more at deca.org/resources

Professional Development Discussion

Talk about professional development and the importance of joining professional organizations. Discuss DECA’s mission statement and guiding principles, and then have students brainstorm ways DECA could help them advance their college and career goals.

Learn more at deca.org/mission

DECA Direct Online

Use DECA Direct Online as a classroom activity, either with a specific article that features a classroom connection or as a broader professional development resource. Students can stop back each day to test their knowledge with a unique exam item from DECA’s competitive events. Each week will also feature a Case Study of the Week from DECA’s competitive events. These features make perfect classroom bell ringers or easy ways to practice all year long.

Find articles at decadirect.org.

DECA Leadership Styles

Use DECA’s Leadership Styles with your students so they can understand their approach and style to leadership, whether they are drivers, energizers, caretakers or analyzers. This tool will help students understand their style and the styles of others. DECA’s Leadership Styles allow them to make more significant contributions, recognize how to leverage the leadership of others and work cooperatively to positively influence people and situations to achieve value and growth.

Learn more on page 13 or at deca.org/elevate

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

Assign students the DECA Scavenger Hunt (Activity 1A) on page 6. Have them explore DECA’s website and fill in the appropriate answers for each box. Allow ample time for them to become familiar with each page as they explore DECA’s website.

deca.org

THERE ARE

HIGH SCHOOL MEMBERS

HIGH SCHOOL CHAPTERS

COUNTRIES THAT ARE A PART OF DECA

DECA AWARDED

COLLEGIATE MEMBERS

COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS

IN SCHOLARSHIP MONEY TO DECA MEMBERS EACH YEAR

TOTAL MEMBERS

THERE ARE

TOTAL CHAPTERS

DECA COMPETITIVE EVENTS

THERE ARE

CORPORATE CHALLENGES OFFERED

WHAT ARE THE FOUR CAREER CLUSTERS FOR DECA’S COMPETITIVE EVENTS?

LIST DECA’S CHAPTER CAMPAIGNS

WHAT YEAR WAS DECA FOUNDED?

LIST ONE OF DECA’S COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY PARTNERS

DECA MONTH IS CELEBRATED IN CTE MONTH© IN CELEBRATED IN

WHERE WILL ICDC BE HELD THIS YEAR?

LIST ONE OF DECA’S CORPORATE PARTNERS

MODULE 2

DECA Emerging Leaders + Entrepreneurs

As a DECA chapter advisor, you are responsible for ensuring your chapter members are ambassadors for the brand and mission of DECA. Everything they do – from how they carry themselves to their social media accounts – reflects your chapter and our organization.

WHAT IS A MISSION STATEMENT?

A mission is an overall purpose we are working to accomplish. It describes the end result of an organized effort.

A mission statement captures the goals and philosophies of an entity in one to two sentences. Businesses and corporations use mission statements to communicate what they do, why they do it and who they serve. A mission statement is vital because it communicates a purpose and what makes the entity unique and extraordinary. It’s the cornerstone of the brand, which allows the identity (examples: logo, fonts, colors, images) to be assigned meaning and value.

DECA’S MISSION STATEMENT

The DECA mission statement defines what DECA is and what we do. The DECA mission is a statement connecting all members, leaders and supporters to the bigger picture. All who sport the logo, wear the blazer and work to advance the organization make DECA the premier career and technical educational organization.

Learn more at deca.org/mission

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Explain the nature of organizational culture

• Interpret and adapt to a business’s culture

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Assign DECA members to complete Our Mission. Your Mission! (Activity 2A) on page 8 to become familiar with DECA’s Mission Statement.

STEP 2

Assign members to complete My Mission Moments (Activity 2B) on page 9 to help them organize and plan for the final activity, I Am DECA. For first-year DECA members, this may be difficult to complete. Introduce this concept and have them revisit it throughout the year. You can also partner new DECA members with an experienced DECA member to complete the activity.

OUR

YOUR MISSION!

& ENTREPRENEURS IN MARKETING, FINANCE, HOSPITALITY AND MANAGEMENT

Student

Name

MY MISSION MOMENTS

DECA’s Guiding Principles describe the heart of what DECA is all about and what it means when members tell the world, “I am a DECA member.” One of the most effective and powerful ways you can empower others to support DECA is by telling your personal DECA story and how our guiding principles have contributed to your life and future. We encourage you to revisit this throughout the year and add content as you grow and develop into an emerging leader.

REFLECT HERE ON YOUR MISSION MOMENTS

DECA INTEGRATES INTO THE CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION

Describe a DECA activity or lesson that has helped you prepare for college and career. How did it help you?

DECA APPLIES LEARNING

Share about a DECA project that required you to be creative and apply knowledge you gained in DECA. What was the outcome?

DECA CONNECTS TO BUSINESS

Recall a time when you met with a business partner through DECA. Who did you meet? What was the occasion? What insight did you learn?

DECA PROMOTES COMPETITION

Describe a competitive experience you’ve had in DECA (e.g., running for office, competition, etc.). How did it drive you to excel and improve your skills and performance?

ACADEMICALLY PREPARED

Share how DECA has inspired your scholastic pursuits and equipped you to conquer your aspirations.

COMMUNITY ORIENTED

What DECA service projects have you been involved in? How did your service impact and improve the community?

PROFESSIONALLY RESPONSIBLE

What is one standard of integrity and professionalism you have learned in DECA?

EXPERIENCED LEADERS

My DECA Story

A DECA Story is a brief explanation of what DECA means to a member, the experiences they’ve gained through the organization and how those experiences can benefit others. Crafting a DECA Story is essential to effectively communicate DECA to those who may not be familiar with our organization.

Here are some best practices to remember as you work with your chapter members to create a DECA Story.

• Create a master template of their DECA Story that can easily be tweaked to fit a particular audience. The story they would tell potential DECA members should differ from those shared with your school’s administration. For example, when talking to potential DECA members, they should include the opportunities to explore careers, travel to educational conferences and make new friends. When talking to school administrators or your school board, highlight that DECA is cocurricular and how that makes the classroom more exciting or rewarding.

• When creating a DECA Story, students should assume the person they’re talking to has no prior knowledge of DECA. Avoid using jargon and acronyms.

• A DECA Story should be personal. The most important element isn’t perfectly explaining DECA, but explaining how DECA has impacted their lives.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Explain the use of storytelling in marketing

• Explain the nature of effective verbal communications

• Employ communication styles appropriate to target audience

Share with your students that the “I am DECA” Story structure is the perfect way to quickly introduce themselves and share more about DECA with business partners, administrators and other potential DECA stakeholders. Guide students through each step of the handout and review the example.

I AM

This is their personal introduction that should include a greeting, their name, DECA position (if applicable), chapter and association (location).

The DECA Story piece has four components:

DESCRIBE

Describe DECA in a compelling way that helps paint a picture of their DECA experience. Encourage students to use descriptive words and incorporate their own perspectives and experiences.

EXCITED

Use a storytelling approach. Engage the audience by conveying the impact DECA has on their lives.

CAREER

What is their career objective? How can DECA help them reach their career goals?

ACHIEVEMENT

What are their personal or chapter goals for this year? Encourage your students to think about how their audience can take action to support DECA and their goals.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Give students time to create their individual “I am DECA” Story (Activity 2C) on page 12

STEP 2

Have students partner and practice with another DECA member or form small groups. Once paired up, have students deliver their full “I am DECA” Story to their partner or group. After each story, encourage each partner to give a tip for improving their story and a compliment on their story. If time allows, you can have DECA members change partners.

STEP 3

Ask for one or two students who would like to volunteer to deliver their stories to the entire group or class. If appropriate, you can give each student volunteer a tip to help them improve and a compliment.

“Hello! I’m James Garcia from Sunrise DECA in Denver, Colorado, where I serve as the Vice President of Finance.

DECA is an awesome association of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs preparing for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.

I love DECA because of the exciting educational conferences they host each year, like the Sports and Entertainment Marketing Conference.

My career objective is to become an investment banker.

My goal this year is to be an international finalist in DECA’s Financial Services competitive event. After that, my plan is to attend Cornell University and major in finance. Financial Services is just one of more than 50 competitive events in DECA’s Comprehensive Learning Program. I invite you to visit deca.org to see all the great opportunities DECA has for emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.”

MODULE 3

DECA Leadership Styles

As an advisor, it is important that your chapter members, especially your chapter leadership team, know their DECA Leadership Style to understand themselves better, how they are perceived, and how they work with others. When a team understands each other’s strengths and weaknesses, projects and tasks can be divided so all members are more productive. Influential leaders draw out the best performance from their team by understanding their leadership style and working to meet the needs of individuals who may or may not share the same leadership style.

As emerging leaders, the DECA Leadership Styles assessment will allow them to discover insights into who they are as a leader. Having an awareness of their DECA Leadership Style will enable them to communicate better, assess others’ needs, and forge productive relationships. A leader’s ability to identify these differences and quickly adapt to address individual needs can be the difference between leadership success and failure.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Assess personal strengths and weaknesses

• Explain the concept of leadership

• Consider conflicting viewpoints

• Maintain collaborative partnerships with colleagues

DRIVER

Drivers are effective, organized and goal-oriented. They are the responsible, executive-type that is focused on completing the tasks and project.

See themselves as: executive-like, responsible, goaloriented, organized and effective

Others may see them as: bossy, opinionated, boring and stubborn

ENERGIZER

Energizers are fast-paced, live in the moment and are action-oriented. They are the fun-loving members of a team who are optimistic and able to come up with creative solutions.

See themselves as: fun-loving, solution-oriented, actionoriented and fast-paced

Others may see them as: not serious, forgetful, a rulebreaker and not focused

CARETAKER

Caretakers are warm, caring and people oriented. Caretakers can be counted on to bring encouragement to teammates, and to be considerate of the feelings and wellbeing of others.

See themselves as: caring, warm, people-oriented, encouraging and considerate

Others may see them as: dramatic, naive, overly emotional and ignoring policies

ANALYZER

Analyzers are objective, efficient and visionoriented. As knowledgeable individuals, analyzers are gifted in making plans that are well developed, efficient and innovative.

See themselves as: knowledgeable, great at planning vision-oriented, objective, calm and efficient

Others may see them as: arrogant, calculating, hard to get to know, uncaring and shy

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Review the concept of Nature + Nurture + Choice on page 15 with your students before having them complete the activities in this module.

STEP 2

Have students complete the What’s Your DECA Leadership Style? (Activity 3A) quiz on page 16, then transfer their scores to the Leadership Style Defined worksheet.

STEP 3

Have students complete the Increase Your Influence worksheet (Activity 3B) on page 18

NATURE + NURTURE + CHOICES

One-third of your leadership is based on nature—how you were uniquely wired and gifted at birth. One-third of your leadership is based on nurture—the training you have received and the impact of how you were raised and influenced by family, friends, heroes and others in your life. The final element of your leadership style is based on your choices—the lessons you have learned from the outcomes of your life decisions.

The DECA Leadership Styles Inventory provides insight into your nature—or how you are naturally wired to lead. It provides a glimpse into your natural tendencies and how you were born to act and react to life situations. Your natural style often emerges when you are the most stressed, tired or operating in new or unfamiliar environments. As you gain confidence and comfortability in leadership, the nurture and choice aspects of your leadership style will emerge. This choreography and cultivation of nature, nurture and choice reveals the emerging leader within.

MAJOR AND MINOR LEADERSHIP STYLES

Your highest score represents your Major DECA Leadership Style. This is the leadership style you use most often and readily identify within others.

Your lowest score represents your Minor DECA Leadership Style. This is the leadership style you lead with the least often and likely need help understanding those who operate with this as their Major DECA Leadership Style.

If your Major DECA Leadership Style is tied or within one or two points of another style, this means that you have the capability to readily adjust your leadership style to understand and operate in a wider variety of situations.

AVERAGE LEADERS VS. GREAT LEADERS

An average leader often surrounds themselves with others who have a similar style. This is natural because people are often more comfortable and communicate easily with people with similar styles and backgrounds. While easier, more comfortable and perhaps more fun in the short term, surrounding yourself with like-minded leaders can create significant issues for you and those who follow you.

Any of these leadership styles can sit at the head of the table and lead DECA. However, great leaders and teams understand that all of these styles need to be sitting at the table to achieve maximum success and best serve members, customers and stakeholders.

Student Name

WHAT’S YOUR DECA LEADERSHIP STYLE?

SECTION 1

TikTok: Made sure the video got done. It’s getting tons of hits.

SECTION 2

TikTok: Starred in the video. It was awesome!

SECTION 3

TikTok: Made sure everyone was in the video. We love it!

SECTION 4

TikTok: Developed the concept for the video. It’s incredible!

Management Supervisor Marketing Sales Hospitality Tourism Entrepreneur Innovator

Practical Procedural Responsible Organized

Working in a group I might say: “OK, everyone, let’s concentrate so we can get this done.”

Secretly, you…

Want to be President & CEO with your name on the executive office door.

Adventurous Open-Minded Impulsive Courageous

Unique Empathy Personal Cooperative

Curious Conceptual Competent Knowledgeable Driven Tradition Orderly Meticulous

Exciting Motivational Spontaneous Competitive

Spirited Affectionate Inspirational Dramatic

Detail Equity Flexible Ingenious

Working in a group I might say: “Hey, everyone! You know what would be cool to try?”

Working in a group I might say: “What does everyone think about this idea? Do you like it?”

Working in a group I might say: “I think I have a great idea for how we can do this. What if we…?”

People who praise me say: “I’m great at setting goals and achieving them.”

I’m effective.

Secretly, you… Want to star in your own TV show with your name in lights!

People who praise me say: “I can get people excited and involved.”

I’m charismatic.

Secretly, you…

Want to be the person who brings world peace and you don’t care who gets credit.

People who praise me say:

“I listen well and really care about others.”

I’m considerate.

Secretly, you…

Want to invent a product or service which changes the world.

People who praise me say:

“I’m creative and always have an idea to share.” I’m innovative.

Student Name

YOUR DECA LEADERSHIP STYLE DEFINED

Transfer your scores from DECA Leadership Styles Inventory to the corresponding boxes below.

TOTAL OF SECTION 1

TOTAL OF SECTION 2

TOTAL OF SECTION 3

TOTAL OF SECTION 4

DRIVER ENERGIZER CARETAKER ANALYZER

DRIVERS see themselves as: ENERGIZERS see themselves as:

Executive type

Responsible Goal-oriented Organized Effective

Others see them as:

Bossy Opinionated Boring Stubborn

They dislike:

Non-conformity

Ambiguity Waste Ineffectiveness

They like:

Structure Clear instruction

Punctuality

Time to adapt to change

Work vs. Play

Work, then play

Key DECA Core Value

Fun-loving Solution finder Action-oriented In the moment Fast-paced

Others see them as:

Not serious Forgetful Disobeys rules Not able to stay on task

They dislike:

Authority/rules Inflexibility Slow pace Inaction

They like:

Change

Freedom to create Sense of humor

Hands on

Work vs. Play

Work + play

Key DECA Core Value

Integrity Competence

Member Relations

Organize, track and set goals for membership

Member Relations

Recruit, engage and mobilize members

CARETAKERS see themselves as:

Caring Warm People-oriented Encouraging Considerate

Others see them as:

Dramatic Naïve Touchy-feely Ignores policies

They dislike:

Hypocrisy Deception

Hidden agendas Insincerity

They like:

Collaborating Warm atmosphere

Inclusiveness

Recognition of all

Work vs. Play

Work + play together

Key DECA Core Value

ANALYZERS see themselves as:

Knowledgeable Great planners Vision-oriented Objective + calm Efficient

Others see them as:

Arrogant Hard to get to know Uncaring Shy

They dislike:

Incompetence Inequity Injustice Inefficiency

They like:

The big picture Thinking Inventiveness

Facts + truth

Work vs. Play

Plan to work + play

Key DECA Core Value

Teamwork Innovation

Member Relations

Welcome, connect and encourage members

Member Relations

Strategize and plan the membership campaign

INCREASE YOUR INFLUENCE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUR DECA STYLES

Circle at least one growth statement per DECA Style that you know is a leadership opportunity you want to grow into a leadership strength.

DRIVER GROWTH ENERGIZER GROWTH

• Relax and enjoy the ride. The world’s not perfect. Flex and be ready to change your plan.

• It takes great people and great planning to succeed. Planning is not your growth opportunity area.

• Failure is essential to innovation and learning. Understand setbacks are setups for greater triumph!

• Just because an idea doesn’t have a plan, doesn’t mean it won’t work. Come up with the plan, even if it’s not your idea.

• Don’t be intimidated by the popular or gifted communicator. Seek clarity. Ask your questions (with warmth and sincerity!)

• Watch your tone and tact. Alienating others is not how you access the help needed to succeed!

• Learn to be fully present and listen before responding.

• Watch how much you talk and finish other people’s sentences in conversations.

• Anyone can generate great ideas, learn to rally others to build on ideas and finish great ideas.

• Learn to be patient and give others time to think about your great ideas. Ownership is vital!

• Understand that just because it’s not fun doesn’t mean it failed. Good times don’t always equal good results.

• Details matter. Take the time to color in the picture or encourage others who are gifted at the details.

CARETAKER GROWTH ANALYZER GROWTH

• Service is your strength, but watch how much you give yourself to everything and everyone. Leave some room for your needs too!

• Understand that not everything is personal. It may feel that way, but, it’s not always the case.

• Learn how to bring expectation as successfully as you bring encouragement.

• Suit up and bring your body armor to work with leaders who aren’t your style.

• Deadlines affect others! Being late because you were serving others is still being late and undermines your influence.

• Drama is distracting and it often finds you because of your caring nature for others. Don’t let drama devour precious time and energy.

BE COURAGEOUS!

• Learn to share and engage others in your ideas even if they aren’t perfect yet. That’s what teams are for!

• Learn to really listen and hear the ideas of others before you question and critique.

• When someone shares their feelings, try not to analyze them or what happened. Just listen and be there for them.

• Don’t be so concerned with tomorrow that you miss today!

• Be careful about your superiority complex. No one likes to hear “I told you so.” Others know you were right without you having to tell them.

• There’s a time to study and a time to start up. Be careful not to overthink things and miss the moment.

Ask another leader or advisor you trust to underline additional growth areas for your DECA Style. Seeking genuine feedback from others will accelerate your influence and leadership!

My Leadership Plan:

Write out the action steps you can take to improve the growth areas you circled above for each DECA Style.

DECA Chapter Leadership Team

Student leaders are essential to the success of your DECA chapter. Just like in business, it’s important to identify roles and responsibilities for critical leaders that have a purpose in supporting your DECA chapter’s overall mission and goals.

DECA members are empowered through experience to provide effective leadership through goal setting, consensus building and project implementation. The DECA Leadership Team is the core group of DECA members that provides leadership to the entire DECA chapter. The DECA Leadership Team should have defined roles and responsibilities that support the chapter’s mission and goals.

There are plenty of leadership opportunities to engage more chapter members than just a few officers. Putting together an effective team may include various teams, committees and directors to help share responsibilities and focus on specific duties.

DECA’S MISSION-BASED CHAPTER OFFICER POSITIONS

The DECA chapter officer positions reflect a corporate leadership structure rather than the typical positions utilized in student clubs and organizations. As emerging leaders, DECA encourages chapters to practice real-world leadership by adopting a structure that mirrors business and industry. DECA officer positions are aligned with the DECA mission to ensure that each aspect of the mission is represented with great leadership. Depending on your chapter’s size, each leadership position can be developed into teams and committees to give more members opportunities to develop leadership abilities and engage in chapter activities.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Explain the concept of leadership

• Collaborate with others

• Participate as a team member

• Use consensus-building skills

• Motivate team members

VP of Finance

President VP of Marketing VP of Hospitality

DECA CHAPTER LEADERSHIP TEAM

SELECTION PROCESS

After you have identified the leadership positions within your chapter, you must then determine how you will select members to serve these key roles throughout the year. The advisor and the members should recognize the importance of choosing leaders who can effectively fulfill their responsibilities to grow the chapter and achieve its goals. You should consider the important components in a selection process and develop a clear, written description of how the selection process will be managed.

The process may include a combination of various selection criteria.

• Written application. Includes the potential officer’s qualifications, explanation of desire to serve or an essay of their leadership abilities, a letter of recommendation, and student and parent signatures supporting a code of conduct and expectations.

• A scored interview with a nominating committee. This could be a panel of outgoing officers, faculty or DECA alumni.

• An exam on DECA knowledge and leadership.

It is important to avoid an election process that resembles a popularity contest in which leaders are elected with little or no consideration given to leadership characteristics.

It is also important for students to be involved in the selection process, but they shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing your chapter leaders. Involving chapter members helps them understand the qualities of leaders, their commitment and the roles and responsibilities of those elected.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Review the example chapter officer duties and structure (Activity 4A) on page 21 with your student leadership team. Have the team review the responsibilities under their related officer position and list some ideas they may have for your chapter while serving in their leadership role.

STEP 2

Have your student leadership team complete the chapter organizational structure (Activity 4B) on page 22, and fill in the information to design a structure to fit the unique needs, size and goals of your DECA chapter.

STEP 3

The officer responsibility activity (Activity 4C) on page 23 is intended to be completed by your student leadership team to help them better understand your chapter organizational structure and their leadership roles.

Student Name

CHAPTER OFFICER DUTIES AND STRUCTURE

Advisor(s) CEO (Advisor)

DECA Student Leader President

President Position Overview

Practice the “Entrepreneurial” and “Management” elements of DECA’s Mission Statement. Responsible for connecting with chartered association officers and establishing chapter vision, management and organization that ensures each chapter officer has the training, support, accountability and resources to deliver a powerful DECA experience for each DECA member.

Practices the “Emerging Leaders” element of the DECA mission. Responsible for all non-competitive event career and leadership activities.

Practices the “Careers” element of the DECA mission. Responsible for chapter participation, preparation and performance in competitive events.

Practices the ”Marketing” element of the DECA mission. Responsible for initial member recruitment, branding and promotions.

• DECA Campaigns Director

Sample Project Manager/ Leadership Positions

These could be appointed positions to committees or positions that fit your chapter size, goals and interests.

• Community Service Director

• School Service Director

• Conference Director

• Recognition/ Scholarships Director

• Leadership Training Director

• Freshman Class Director

• Sophomore Class Director

• Junior Class Director

• Senior Class Director

• DECA Challenges Director

• Principles of Business Administration Events Director

• Team Decision Making Events Director

• Individual Series Events Director

• Business Operations Research Events Director

• Project Management Events Director

• Integrated Marketing Campaign Events Director

• Professional Selling Events Director

• Online Events Director

• Creative Director

• Member Recruitment Director

• Digital Media Director

• Public Relations Director

• School Relations Director

• Community Relations Director

• Social Media Director

• Website Director

• Chapter Newsletter Director

Practices the “Finance” element of the DECA mission. Responsible for chapter budgeting, accounting and fund development efforts.

Puts into practice the “Hospitality” element of the DECA mission. Responsible for connecting members to a welcome, valuefilled, fun educational experience.

• Partnerships Director

• Local Advocacy Director

• Event Fundraising Director

• Member Fundraising Director

• School-based Enterprise Director

• Budget Director

• Accounting Director

• New Member Director

• Member Experiences Director

• Chapter Meetings Director

• Chapter Events Director

• Alumni & Professional Member Director

• Ambassador Director

• DECA Mentor Director

Review the responsibilities under your officer position. List some ideas you have that correlate to your position for your chapter this year.

Student Name

DESIGN YOUR DECA CHAPTER ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Instructions: Using the organizational chart structure below, design a structure to fit the unique needs, size and goals of your DECA chapter. The boxes indicate elected positions that make up the executive leadership team. The blank boxes should be filled in to reflect the “director” level positions that make up teams (or committees) that provide support to the mission-based leadership positions. Select director positions from the DECA Chapter Officer Duties and Structure grid on the previous page—or feel free to create your own director positions.

CEO (ADVISOR)

PRESIDENT

VP OF LEADERSHIP

VP OF MARKETING

VP OF HOSPITALITY

VP OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT

VP OF FINANCE

Student Name

OFFICER RESPONSIBILITY DESCRIPTION

Instructions: With your leadership position in mind, complete each prompt in the chart below.

I am the DECA chapter...

List your leadership position.

I report to the chapter…

List who your position reports to in the organizational chart.

I work with the chapter…

List the other chapter leadership positions you will work with to achieve your chapter’s goals.

I am responsible for…

List all the projects, events, activities, campaigns, and efforts your position leads/supports.

We will be successful this year if I…

Create your Chapter Contribution Success Statement.

MODULE 5

DECA Goals

Chapter advisors need to ensure that their chapter officer team is successful; this will also ensure a thriving chapter. All organizations need to establish goals and track their progress toward achieving them. To create a clear vision and effectively lead the members of your DECA chapter, your chapter officers should set goals regularly.

Goals help your officer team stay focused on the biggest priority for your chapter, whether it be increasing membership, completing a chapter campaign, fundraising or having DECA members qualify in a competitive event at a district, association or international conference.

One of the most important benefits of setting goals and holding your chapter officer responsible for them is that goals create and build momentum. Completing a goal gives your chapter the motivation and drive to tackle the next one. For this reason, it’s important to set a mix of easy, medium and hard goals. Completing the easy goals first will build momentum for medium goals, which will then provide the confidence and inspiration to reach the most challenging goals. When your chapter reaches its targets, it helps increase chapter engagement.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Describe the need for marketing data

• Use analytical tracking tools

• Describe data-collection methods (e.g., observations, mail, diaries, telephone, Internet, discussion groups, interviews, scanners, tracking tools)

• Determine the nature of organizational goals

INTRODUCTION TO DECA GOALS

DECA Goals provide a menu of suggested DECA chapter activities from DECA’s Comprehensive Learning Program. We all have big dreams of what we want to achieve in our DECA chapters. Setting measurable goals helps bring definition to those dreams. This definition allows you to better explain what your chapter wants to accomplish, coordinate your efforts, track your progress, inspire your team members and continue refining your action plans to increase your chances of success.

GOAL SETTING RANGE

DECA Goals reflect a corporate style of goal setting. Corporate goal setting assigns a goal range or targets that everyone strives to achieve. Setting ranges of success for goals helps define the baseline expectation as well as the next progressive levels of success the chapter aims to achieve. Goals are like a map of your chapter’s success journey. They tell you where you are currently, define your ultimate destination and show your milestones or rest stops along the way.

DECA GOALS DEFINED

In DECA, the naming of our goal ranges reflects our name and brand. DECA Goals stands for Duty, Exceptional, Champion and Actual.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

Review the information on this page with your chapter’s student leadership team. Then, have them complete the DECA Goals Worksheet (Activity 5A) on pages 26-27

Student leaders can work on this activity independently and then share their responses to create a chapter DECA goals worksheet.

DUTY

The first level baseline expectation for a goal is called the “Duty” goal. Think of this as the minimally acceptable and relatively easy level of success for your chapter.

EXCEPTIONAL

The next progressive level is called the “Exceptional” goal. Think of this as the goal that could be achieved if your chapter is highly organized, committed and well-trained.

CHAMPION The high end of the goal range is called the “Champion” level goal. Think of this goal level as “best in class.” The champion level is where DECA’s best chapters in the world operate relative to your chapters, size, setting and situation. The champion-level DECA Goal is achievable, but it will take extraordinary leadership to achieve.

ACTUAL

The final element of DECA Goals is the “Actual” level. This is where your chapter currently stands toward pursuing your greater goals. The actual level should be updated and reported frequently so officers and members know where you currently are relative to your stated DECA Goals.

Student Name

DECA GOALS WORKSHEET

Follow these steps to set DECA Goals for your chapter:

1. Review the list of goals with your chapter advisor and chapter officer team.

2. Choose the goals most relevant for your chapter this year by place an “X” next to that menu item.

3. Once you’ve selected your goals, establish a range of success for each of them using these levels as guidance:

• Duty: Absolute lowest level of success your chapter will accept

• Exceptional: The real goal you are seeking as a team

• Champion: Your chapter’s “stretch goal” which would place your chapter among the DECA elite

4. Once you’re done setting the goals, use the “Actual” column to write down your current level of achievement and track your chapter’s progress at each DECA Executive Team meeting throughout the year.

MEMBERSHIP

Student Members

Alumni Members

Professional Members

Total Chapter Members

LEADERSHIP

DECA Membership Campaign

DECA Advocacy Campaign

DECA Promotional Campaign

DECA Ethical Leadership Campaign

DECA Community Service Campaign

Attendees at DECA Region Leadership Conference

Attendees at Career Development Conference

Attendees at International Career Development Conference

Total Chapter Hours of School/Community Service

Funds Raised for School/Community Service

Total Number of DECA Scholarship Applications

Number of Cumulative Hours of Training for Members

Total Career/Leadership Training Activities Held in the Chapter

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Number of Stock Market Game Teams

Number of DECA Challenge Entries

Number of Virtual Business Challenge Teams Entered

Number of Finalists at District Conference

Number of Top 3 Winners at District Conference

Number of Finalists at Association Conference

Number of Top 3 Winners at Association Conference

Number of Competition Qualifiers to ICDC

Number of Finalists at ICDC

Student Name

DECA GOALS WORKSHEET

CHAPTER GOALS

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Number of Top Ten Performers at ICDC

Number of Top 3 Overall Winners at ICDC

Number of Competition Prep Sessions Held

Number of Chapter Practice Competition Events Held

Number of Performance Indicators Studied

MARKETING

Number of New DECA Members Recruited

Number of Social Media Messages Posted

Number of Followers on Social Media

Number of Submissions to DECA Direct Online

Number of Presentations to School/District Officials

Number of Community Outreach Activities

Number of Press Releases Sent to News Media

Number of News Articles Covering Chapter Activities

Number of Visitors to Chapter Website

FINANCE

Total Funds Raised for the Chapter

Number of Presentations to Prospective Partners

Number of Stakeholders Reached through Advocacy Efforts

Funds Raised from Partners

Funds Raised from Member Fundraising Activities

Funds Raised from School/Community

Funds Raised from School-based Enterprise

HOSPITALITY

Number of Chapter Meetings Held

Average Attendance at Chapter Meetings

Number of Chapter Networking/Social Events Held

Number of New Members Oriented

Number of Chapter Outings/Excursions/Tours/Trips Held

Number of Virtual Meetings Held

Number of Alumni/Professional Member Connections Made

DUTY EXCEPTIONAL CHAMPION ACTUAL

“It's not about the number of goals you set. DECA success is about the number of goals you go and get!”

MODULE 6

DECA Program of Leadership

Developed by the chapter officer team, the Program of Leadership is a strategic plan that sets the direction and goals for the chapter and includes detailed work plans to achieve those goals.

The DECA Program of Leadership brings together the leadership team, DECA goals and action items for the year into one strategic leadership plan. The program of leadership provides a comprehensive plan of the chapter’s goals and activities for the school year. Each goal is aligned with a mission area, assigns overall responsibility to a leader and indicates the key project initiatives, success criteria, time frame and project leaders.

Developing a Program of Leadership is much like an organization’s approach to its strategic planning process that results in a formal strategic plan. The Program of Leadership will result in defining your chapter strategy for your officer team and should include a formal plan with goals, action plans and resource allocations to keep the chapter on track.

In some cases, you may also develop project management plans depending on the size and scope of your goals and activities. The Program of Leadership should guide your priorities and activities for the year while yielding the largest greatest possible for your chapter.

Goals are great. Results are better.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Determine the nature of organizational goals

• Ascertain employee’s role in meeting organizational goals

• Organize and prioritize work

• Coordinate work with that of team members

• Monitor and ensure completion of delegated tasks

• Streamline work processes

• Evaluate project success

TIPS TO GET STARTED

As you begin to think about creating your Program of Leadership, here are some careful considerations for developing one that is powerful and impactful.

Be Realistic, Attainable and Inclusive

Every great idea needs to be assessed to ensure it’s feasible. Your goals should be realistic and attainable. Does it require additional resources (funding, people, etc.)? Is there enough time to complete the activities and goals? It’s better to be results-driven than to create grand ideas that won’t materialize. When developing your goals and activities, you should consider accessibility for all DECA members in your chapter, flexibility that will allow students to participate and be successful and adaptability for multiple levels of participation and experiences.

Be Data-Driven

You should determine your end goals (both quantitative and qualitative) as well as benchmarks throughout the year. Designate the checkpoints early so that you know when to check in on your progress toward your goals.

Be Proactive

Get as much of a head start on completing the actual action items as possible. Consider which activities are going to need a full project management plan in order to be successful.

BRAINSTORMING

Brainstorming can be a highly effective way to encourage creative thinking for developing a chapter Program of Leadership. Below are a few ideas to use to get started.

• Mind Mapping: Use mind mapping techniques to represent ideas and concepts visually. Provide your students with a topic (leadership, recruitment, fundraising, etc.), and have them create branches with related ideas, further expanding on each branch.

• Brainwriting: Instead of speaking aloud, DECA members write their ideas on sticky notes or a shared digital platform. Then, they build upon each other’s ideas.

• Gallery Walk: Post different topics around the room DECA members will walk around and add their ideas and activities related to the topic.

• Reverse Brainstorming: Instead of generating ideas for a desired outcome, brainstorm ideas to achieve the opposite result. DECA members can identify potential obstacles and find solutions to overcome them.

• Time-Limited Brainstorming: Set a specific time limit for brainstorming sessions to encourage quick thinking and prevent overthinking.

Remember to create a positive and supportive environment where all ideas are encouraged and respected. These brainstorming techniques can stimulate creativity and foster active engagement in creating a chapter program of leadership.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Refer back to the DECA Goals (Module 5) created by your student leaders. Review the elements of a Program of Leadership with your student leadership team and have them complete each statement in the Pre-Planning Worksheet (Activity 6A) on page 30.

STEP 2

Review the DECA Chapter Program of Leadership Example with your student leadership team, then have them create their own DECA Program of Leadership (Activity 6B) using the worksheet on page 32. This can be done by students working independently or in small groups. To engage more DECA members, have your student leadership team share their DECA Program of Leadership goals with your chapter. Then use feedback and input from the members to finalize your chapter Program of Leadership.

STEP 3

Have your student leadership team complete the DECA Program of Leadership Model worksheet (Activity 6C) on page 33 to follow the process for each initiative from start-up to evaluation.

DECA members can be put into small groups led by a chapter officer (project leader) and begin to complete the worksheet for a project under the chapter’s program of leadership.

The project leader should collect and keep the worksheets as a reference and can use the evaluation section to evaluate how successful the project was and any improvements they would suggest.

Student Name

DECA CHAPTER PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP PRE-PLANNING WORKSHEET

ELEMENT DEFINITION

List one DECA goal based on your chapter’s mission. Consider the following areas: leadership, career development, marketing, finance and hospitality.

DECA

GOAL AREA

What does success “look like” for each goal area?

GOAL VISION STATEMENT

Who is the team member in charge of this goal?

EXECUTIVE TEAM LEAD(S)

What activities and initiative will you do to achieve your goal?

KEY PROJECT INITIATIVES

How will you measure the success of this initiative?

SUCCESS CRITERIA

When will this action take place? Consider the start time and deadline.

TIME FRAME

Who is the project leader(s) on this goal?

PROJECT LEADER(S)

Your final plan which brings all the pieces together.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN

DECA CHAPTER PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP EXAMPLE

GOAL VISION STATEMENT

For this school year, our chapter aims to increase membership by adding 20 more student members and obtaining 20 professional members. We will achieve this by completing the membership and chapter campaigns, leveraging social media platforms and attending community events to attract new professional members. Progress will be tracked in the membership system, and adjustments to the strategies will be made if necessary to stay on track to meet the goal.

EXECUTIVE TEAM LEAD(S) Vice President of Marketing

KEY PROJECT INITIATIVES SUCCESS CRITERIA

Visit all business classes

Potential members will attend the chapter interest meeting

First two weeks of school Vice President of Marketing

Attend freshman orientation and the school activities fair

Potential members will attend the chapter interest meeting

September 1-30 Vice President of Marketing

Each member will reach out to two business professionals to join as professional members

Potential professional members will return the form and join our chapter

September 1 - November 30 Vice President of Hospitality

Membership Campaign

20 additional student members and 20 professional members submitted in the membership system

Submit by November 30 President and Chapter Advisor

Chapter Campaigns

Use chapter social media to increase engagement with potential members and professionals.

Chapter officers will attend Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club meetings

Complete and submit the promotional campaign and community service campaign

Increase followers on each social media platform by 10%

Potential professional members will return the form and join our chapter

Submit by November 30 Vice President of Leadership

First week of school until November 30 Vice President of Marketing

September - November President

DECA CHAPTER PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP

DECA PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP MODEL

MODULE 7

DECA Chapter Campaigns

Engage your members in DECA activities throughout the year using DECA’s Chapter Campaigns as your guide! These DECA chapter campaigns are perfect for developing your chapter’s program of leadership and allow your chapter to gain the recognition it deserves. Encourage your chapter officers to develop a plan through their Program of Leadership to engage your community and grow membership by participating in one or more of DECA’s five chapter campaigns.

Each campaign has unique criteria described in the DECA chapter Campaign Guidebook. The guidebook gives a detailed overview and features helpful tools to assist your chapter in completing the chapter campaigns. A sample activity is included on page 36

Learn more at deca.org/campaigns

The campaigns feature five categories: Membership, Promotional, Community Service, Ethical Leadership and Advocacy.

Review requirements and deadlines. Read the guidebook carefully as each campaign has its own deadlines and requirements.

Get creative. The guidebook comes equipped with suggestions on how to incorporate chapter campaigns into your classroom and chapter. Review DECA’s suggested ideas and then decide which ones sound the most feasible. But don’t stop there – think outside of the box and brainstorm your own unique blueprint!

Create an action plan. One of the guidebook’s greatest assets is the student worksheet that follows each campaign’s description. This allows students to visually plan out their target activities, jot down ideas and collaborate with others. Utilize this feature to come up with the best approach for your chapter campaigns!

Submit your campaigns. For the Promotional, Community Service, Ethical Leadership and Advocacy campaigns, submit your information through the Chapter Campaign portal. For the membership campaign, be sure to submit your chapter’s membership roster by the deadline.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Participate in community outreach activities

• Plan special events

• Develop event budget

• Determine staffing needs for events

• Explain the nature of event marketing

• Explain the nature of event planning

• Explain the role of feasibility analysis in the event planning process

MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN

Like in business, continued growth is one of the keys to success. DECA’s membership campaign is designed to help your chapter grow by making the DECA experience available to more student members, keeping alumni involved and engaging professional members such as administrators, teachers, parents and business partners. Recognition for the Membership Campaign will be determined based on your membership submitted in the online membership system. The due date for submission is December 1.

PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN

This campaign provides chapter members an opportunity to share with their school and community what DECA is all about and how their chapter is making a positive impact on its members and community. Conduct three school outreach activities, three community outreach activities and share three alumni success stories to complete this campaign. Be sure to submit your information online by December 1

COMMUNITY SERVICE CAMPAIGN

DECA members are always finding unique ways to serve their community. Get recognized for your efforts through this campaign. It’s easy. Simply document one or more community service activities, be sure to have at least 75% of your members involved, and create at least one form of publicity or promotion. Finally, be sure to submit your information online by December 1

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP CAMPAIGN

Educate your local school and community about the importance of ethics. To earn recognition, submit three Ethical Leadership Challenge entries, conduct three school outreach activities promoting ethical leadership and three community outreach activities promoting ethical leadership. Be sure to submit your information online by December 1

ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN

This campaign takes place in February 2024, during Career and Technical Education Month©. Completing three school outreach activities, three public policymaker outreach activities and three community outreach activities will get your chapter recognized for this campaign. Your community will know you are advocates of DECA and Career and Technical Education! Submit your campaign by March 1

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

Review the chapter campaigns with your DECA members and determine if your chapter would like to participate in any for the current or upcoming school year. Visit deca.org/campaigns for additional information and to download DECA’s Chapter Campaign Guidebook. A student worksheet for the Community Service Campaign (Activity 7A) is included on page 36. Even if your chapter is not planning on submitting a campaign, it can be used as a resource to allow students to visually plan out their activities for a community service activity. deca.org/campaigns

Find more creative ideas at decadirect.org/campaigns

COMMUNITY SERVICE CAMPAIGN ACTION PLAN

Instructions: Complete the following action plan to develop a successful community service project for your chapter.

COMMUNITY SERVICE ACTIVITY

Project:

Cause:

Rationale: Community Connection:

75% MEMBER PARTICIPATION

Strategy:

PUBLICITY/PROMOTION METHODS

Target Audience:

Message:

Type of Publicity/Promotion:

MODULE 8

DECA Chapter Budget

DIAMOND FUNDRAISING MODEL

Like businesses with financial growth plans, DECA chapters must also create programs that support forecasted expenses, identify possible revenue sources and diversify access to financial resources. Unleash your fundraising potential and learn valuable business financial principles through the DECA Diamond Fundraising model.

WHAT IS THE DECA DIAMOND FUNDRAISING MODEL?

The DECA Diamond Fundraising Model is the formula for an effective chapter fundraising plan. Having a plan is essential because it defines direction, changes the shift from reactive fundraising to proactive fundraising and encourages involvement from all members of your chapter. The model includes four areas that make up the fundraising mix:

• Local advocacy

• Partnerships

• Personal selling

• Events and activities

A fundraising plan that incorporates all four areas ensures diversity and creativity in how funds and resources are raised for the chapter.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Describe the nature of budgets

• Develop company’s/ department’s budget

• Describe the nature of event budgeting

• Develop event budget

CHAPTER FUNDRAISERS

The lucrative chapter fundraiser uses learning activities with members to raise funds to support DECA activities.

STEP 1: PLAN

• Develop an annual budget.

• Map out how fundraising activities support teaching standards and provide hands-on learning opportunities.

• Collaborate with chapter leaders to brainstorm opportunities to gain financial support for your chapter’s programs.

• Utilize the DECA Diamond Fundraising Model.

STEP 2: ACT

• Monitor financials throughout the year.

• Share DECA’s impact with administrators, local businesses and community organizations to generate “buy-in.”

• Facilitate fundraising activities to support your chapter’s program of leadership.

NEW ADVISOR TIP

• Keep It Simple – small events can have a big impact; some activities, such as a Miracle Minute, require few resources but can still raise a large amount of funds.

• Encourage students to share successes with others.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Have DECA members complete the Diamond Fundraising Model (Activity 8A) on page 39 and list some examples of fundraisers that fall under each of the four areas (advocacy, partnerships, personal selling and events/activities). Encourage students to brainstorm fundraisers that encompass multiple areas.

STEP 2

DECA members can complete the Determining Your Diamond Fundraising Mix (Activity 8B) on page 40 individually or in small groups. Be sure your students use a goal that corresponds to realistic chapter expenses (how much does your chapter need to raise?). Have your DECA members step through each area and determine a realistic fundraising amount in each area of revenue.

STEP 3

Have your students complete the Diamond Fundraising Factors worksheet (Activity 8C) on pages 41-42 individually or in small groups. There is a section for each of the four areas. Have individuals or groups share their ideas for each of the four areas and determine which may work best for your chapter’s fundraising goals!

Find more fundraising ideas at decadirect.org/fundraising

Student Name

DIAMOND FUNDRAISING MODEL

Instructions: Brainstorm your chapter fundraising plan. List at least five ideas of chapter fund development opportunities for each category below: local advocacy, partnerships, personal selling, and events and activities. Hint: some activities may fall into multiple categories.

LOCAL ADVOCACY PARTNERSHIPS

PERSONAL SELLING

EVENTS + ACTIVITIES

DETERMINING YOUR DIAMOND FUNDRAISING MIX

Instructions: Complete the fundraising mix exercise. Use this worksheet to estimate financial figures and help guide your chapter in the first phase of fund development planning. A more detailed fundraising mix and budget may be prepared with your local chapter and advisor using historical financial figures for a more accurate budget for the upcoming year.

STEP

How much does your chapter need to raise?

STEP

The Bottom Line! In finance, calculating net income, also known as the bottom line or profit margin, is one metric used to measure financial success of a business. DECA chapters model business financial measures by creating chapter budgets and identifying the bottom line by using the net income

formula: Revenue – Expenses = Profit/Loss.

DIAMOND FUNDRAISING FACTORS

When considering a revenue strategy, it is beneficial to consider how all factors come into play. This will help determine the fundraising activities and strategies that are the best fit for your members, school and community.

LOCAL ADVOCACY STRATEGY

TIP #1

Promote contributions your DECA chapter makes to the community.

TIP #2

Communicate consistent, positive and timely DECA branded messages.

IDEAS AND RESOURCES

TIP #3

Send thank you letter and picture of your chapter to policy makers.

FUNDRAISING FACTORS

MEMBERS REQUIRED Crew of few Meet in the middle All hands on deck

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY So easy a caveman can do it! Great members can do it! Great leaders can do it!

PERSONAL SELLING STRATEGY

TIP #1

Revisit “old-school” favorites with a “creative twist.”

TIP #2 Check the calendar and ensure school approval.

IDEAS AND RESOURCES

TIP #3

Consider your competition—be unique!

FUNDRAISING FACTORS

MEMBERS REQUIRED Crew of few Meet in the middle All hands on deck

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY So easy a caveman can do it! Great members can do it! Great leaders can do it! START UP

Student Name

DIAMOND FUNDRAISING FACTORS

PARTNERSHIP STRATEGY

TIP #1

Demonstrate credibility.

TIP #2

Understand the needs of your target partners.

IDEAS AND RESOURCES

TIP #3

Identify your network and make the invitation.

FUNDRAISING FACTORS

MEMBERS REQUIRED Crew of few Meet in the middle

All hands on deck

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY So easy a caveman can do it! Great members can do it! Great leaders can do it!

START UP CAPITAL NEEDED Little to none Moderate Significant

TIME HORIZON Immediate return Mid-term return

Long-term return

FUN FACTOR Boring Bliss Blockbuster

PAYOFF POTENTIAL Bronze Silver Gold

EVENTS + ACTIVITIES STRATEGY TIP #1 Plan ahead.

TIP #2

Work together as a team.

IDEAS AND RESOURCES

TIP #3 Get educated about DECA incentive programs and activities.

FUNDRAISING FACTORS

MEMBERS REQUIRED Crew of few Meet in the middle

All hands on deck

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY So easy a caveman can do it! Great members can do it! Great leaders can do it!

START UP CAPITAL NEEDED Little to none Moderate Significant

TIME HORIZON Immediate return Mid-term return

Long-term return

FUN FACTOR Boring Bliss Blockbuster

PAYOFF POTENTIAL Bronze Silver Gold

MODULE 9

DECA Chapter Communications

There are three steps to creating a strategic communications plan for your chapter: create content, share content and drive engagement. Create a monthly content calendar that matches chapter activities for each month to potential articles and DECA members responsible for writing them. DECA members can then write the articles and submit them to decadirect.org. Then, using social media and other communication channels, those articles can be shared with chapter members. Finally, to drive engagement, use social media to interact with chapter members. This can be accomplished by developing a weekly calendar of social media posts.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Review the DECA Strategic Communications Plan Cool Ideas (Activity 9A) on page 44 with your DECA members. Have them brainstorm some additional ideas that could be used throughout the year. Encourage them to be creative and consider what occurs in your association or local area during each time frame.

STEP 2

Have your students work individually or in small groups to create the Monthly Social Media Plan (Activity 9B) on page 45 based on the examples and brainstorming session. Have your chapter social media team share how many followers your chapter has for each social media platform.

STEP 3

If desired, have your DECA members brainstorm ideas for the Weekly Calendar (Activity 9C) on page 46. Consider other creative ideas your DECA members may have for each

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Develop communications plan

• Implement a communications plan

• Describe the impact of a person’s social media brand on the achievement of organizational objectives

• Create social-media brand identity

• Maintain a consistent brand voice in social content

• Leverage social networks for customer engagement

• Implement strategies to grow social media following

DECA STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS PLAN COOL IDEAS

AUGUST | SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER

Membership Recruitment

• Social Media Raffles – Give away awesome prizes to people who follow you on social media by letting them enter a raffle by liking, sharing, retweeting or otherwise engaging with your social media. Write the names down on pieces of paper, draw a winner and announce it over social media!

• New Member Spotlight – When new members pay their dues, highlight them on social media with their photo and why they joined DECA. People love the thrill of seeing themselves recognized!

• Chapter Meeting Videos – Show your audience the excitement of your chapter meetings by posting highlight videos on TikTok or Instagram and sharing them with others who might be interested in joining!

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | JANUARY

DECA Month and Conference Preparation

• DECA Campaign Highlights – You’re already doing excellent work in your chapter to qualify for the Membership, Promotional, Community Service and Ethical Leadership Campaigns, but make sure to highlight your activities on social media with an appropriate hashtag so others can see your great work.

• Share Conference Excitement – Post photos and videos from last year’s association-level and International Career Development Conferences to get people excited for competition preparation.

• Spotlight on Success – As your members reach milestones in their competitive event preparations, praise them on social media so they can feel the thrill of recognition and others can see the hard work they’re putting in.

FEBRUARY | MARCH | APRIL

Conferences, Conferences, Conferences!

• Celebrate Your Victories, LIVE – Post live updates from your association-level and International Career Development Conference showing the fun you had and the victories you achieved in real-time. Individual shout-outs for winners are especially cool!

• Capture the Memories – Remember to not just send out social media content with your current audience in mind, but to document moments that you can use to highlight in membership recruitment efforts at the beginning of the year.

• Social Media Prizes – Give opportunities for people who are NOT attending the conferences to win prizes or recognition for interacting with your accounts during conferences. For example, the 10th person to “like” a status could win a free chapter t-shirt.

MAY | JUNE | JULY

Celebrate Your Accomplishments

• Recognize Your Supporters – Focus on giving special attention on social media to any donors, professional or alumni members, and business partners who helped you reach success this year.

• Party and Promote – Have an end-of-the-year chapter banquet and share the coolest moments on social media for everyone to see the excitement in your chapter.

• Start Building for Next Year – Share the new DECA theme with your audience, start thinking of new ways to incorporate it into your efforts, and start planning before school is out for your social media efforts during the summer. If you’re looking for great content to share during the summer, check out DECA Direct!

Student

MONTHLY SOCIAL MEDIA PLAN

FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS

WEEKLY SOCIAL MEDIA CALENDAR

HELPFUL SOCIAL MEDIA RESOURCES

1. Canva – Canva makes it easy to create and design graphics, animations and videos to give your social media a boost! The platform has a library of templates, backgrounds, images, fonts and stickers to ensure that you create stand-out content.

2. Hootsuite – Schedule content across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more using one simple, free service. Use this to post up a week or month’s worth of updates on a schedule instead of having to post individual updates every day, as well as to manage multiple accounts.

3. Bit.ly – Twitter will automatically shorten your links for you, but Bitly will let you customize the URL people click on and track how many people click on the link, all for free.

4. Google Alerts – Set up a free alert every time someone posts up an article containing a keyword, including “DECA,” your organization’s name, or anything else, and this service will email you with a link to see what people are saying.

5. DECA Brand Resource Center –Browse DECA’s online library of downloadable logos, templates, videos, animations and more to use in your communications. Find resources at deca.org/brand.

MODULE 10

DECA Travel

DECA advisors must have thought through all aspects of student travel while also being prepared for any possible surprises when traveling with students! The most important aspect is to make sure you understand your local school board policies for student travel and collect any forms or requirements required by your school district and school. Map out all financial obligations and registration deadlines early for your association and DECA conferences. Keep all your records and travel-related files organized and update any necessary forms each school year.

One of the perks of DECA membership is the opportunity to travel in a professional business style. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful trip!

BEFORE THE EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE

1. Schedule a meeting with the parents, students and administrators.

• Provide a conference information sheet with hotel information. Review the Comprehensive Consent Form and Code of Conduct. Discuss consequences.

• Review the importance of representing their family, school, and chapter in a professional manner. For parents unable to attend, follow up with a phone call and a mailing.

• Distribute the trip itinerary and tentative agenda. Use this opportunity to show how students are kept busy with educational and fun activities. Talk about the ways the students prepare for the conference.

• Explain the dress code.

• Let the administration congratulate the students for accepting the opportunity to participate.

2. Submit a press release.

Make this a positive experience for the entire community.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

This module’s activities connect to the following National Curriculum Standards:

• Organize excursions for visitors/travelers

• Explain reasons that people travel

• Describe reasons that people choose destinations

• Describe factors influencing customer willingness to travel to a destination

• Explain factors influencing convention meeting/event site appeal

• Identify travel and tour plan options

• Utilize resources that can contribute to professional development

3. Invite the principal to come into the classroom.

• They should meet the students who will be attending the conference. Let the students present the code of conduct they have signed and will practice at the conference. The principal can help reinforce the importance of professional behavior.

• They should also share ways they are preparing for the event.

4. Meet one last time before leaving for the conference. Review professional expectations. Review the conference program. Answer last-minute questions. Reinforce your belief in them and their abilities.

5. Discuss emergency procedures and develop a plan with your administrators.

• You never know what will happen—and things can happen to anyone. Be sure you have your administrator’s contact information and know school policies and procedures.

• Bring a copy of your school’s activities handbook.

• Bring your students’ signed Comprehensive Consent Forms.

DURING THE EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE

1. Conduct a chapter meeting after registering in your hotel. The agenda should include:

• Collect your students’ cell phone numbers.

• Make a master list of your students’ room numbers.

• Hand out programs and conference materials.

• Go over the schedule of events. Have each student mark in their program where they are to be throughout the conference. Advise them of your location during the conference.

• Go over the physical layout of the hotels.

• Review the Code of Conduct and dress code.

• Build on their excitement and enthusiasm and reinforce your belief in them. Encourage them to meet delegates from other chapters.

2. Establish procedures for students to check-in with you during the conference.

• This is vital! You can help eliminate student frustrations. It’s important that you ask your students how they are doing. Be positive and supportive. Keep your eyes open for potential problems.

• Let your students know where you will be, too!

3. Enforce curfew. Make sure students are in their own rooms. You have a responsibility to your students and their parents to see that your students are in the correct room. Curfew applies to all students!

4. Sit with your students during the general sessions and other special functions. Create a “team” spirit for your chapter. Even the “best of students” are capable of “acting up.”

5. Be visible.

• Drop in and check on your students. “Count heads” at the key sessions and at curfew.

• Review the day’s activities and what activities are scheduled for the next day.

6. Meet problems head-on in a positive manner. Don’t let things get out of hand. Do your part tactfully. They are all of our students!

AFTER THE EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE

1. Congratulate your students for their professionalism and participation at the conference.

2. Send a letter to parents expressing your appreciation for their support.

3. Follow-up with the principal, other administrators and school board members with a student presentation.

4. Submit a follow-up press release with chapter pictures and student comments.

STUDENT ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1

Review the Student Travel Tips (Activity 10A) on page 49 with your DECA chapter several weeks before your chapter travels. Brainstorm any additional tips based on the location in which you will be traveling with your students.

STEP 2

Before departing with your DECA chapter to your event destination, have your DECA members complete the Student Educational Conference Pre-Work (Activity 10B) on page 50

STUDENT TRAVEL TIPS

One of the perks of DECA membership is the opportunity to travel in professional business style. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful trip!

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

As you prepare for your trip, ask yourself the following questions.

– Where am I going?

– What is the weather forecast?

– What type of conference is it?

– Do I have any special responsibilities?

– What activities are planned?

– How many days will I be there?

Only pack necessary items, especially if you will be traveling via airplane. Keep in mind that airlines have restrictions and baggage costs.

Remember that you are in effect in school, and all school rules still apply.

Discuss financial commitments you will have with your chapter advisor. You should discuss a plan for your money with your advisor so you do not have too much excess cash on hand.

Be sure to have photo identification, such as a driver’s license or school ID.

Provide your parents with the name and phone number of the hotel as well as information from your chapter advisor.

DURING THE CONFERENCE

Alert your chapter advisor of your whereabouts, and always know your chapter advisor’s plans. Always be able to contact your chapter advisor.

Keep the name and contact information of another chapter advisor in case of emergency.

Keep the hotel’s front desk phone number and address with you at all times in case of emergency.

Keep your hotel room number a secret – the fewer people that know it, the better.

Wear your name badge only for DECA events, and remove your name badge if you leave the hotel or conference area.

When using mass transit, go to the middle of the car so other passengers can board.

When waiting for an elevator, stand back from the doors to allow elevator occupants to exit before you enter.

Travel in groups. You should travel with an adult after nightfall.

Be in your room at curfew. Your advisor will be checking.

ALWAYS BE ALERT

Be aware of your surroundings and use caution. If something seems out of the ordinary, alert your chapter advisor or the authorities immediately.

Use common sense, and don’t put yourselves in danger.

Don’t socialize with people who are not part of the conference, and especially don’t give out any information such as your hotel information.

REPRESENT THE DECA BRAND

• Promote DECA: Be prepared to explain what DECA is with poise and enthusiasm.

• Know Your DECA Story: Take time to practice your I Am DECA Story and incorporate a brief overview and your goals for the conference.

• Act Professionally: Behave in a courteous and respectful manner that reflects positively on you, your school, your advisors, and DECA.

• Attend and Be on Time: Remember, your attendance is required at most sessions. Go over your personal schedule with your advisor. Represent DECA with pride by being on time and staying for the duration of the program.

• Dress for Success: Ensure your wardrobe meets all requirements of the DECA Dress Code.

• Tip for Service: Remember that the rule of thumb is to tip 1520% for meals with wait service.

Student Name

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE WORKSHEET

Congratulations on being a participant in DECA’s educational conference. We have discussed the opportunities available at the conference and how it will be an extension of our classroom learning. Consider your classroom and DECA learning experiences while reflecting on your role and participation at the conference. In addition, give thought to how you can share the conference experiences with other classmates upon your return.

List the conference name and location.

EVENT

This conference is designed to...

PURPOSE

My role will be to...

MY ROLE

PREPARATION

I am preparing for my role at this conference by...

My participation at the conference has been enhanced by classroom learning in the following areas:

CLASSROOM LEARNING

Three goals I hope to achieve by participating in this conference are:

MY GOALS

I plan to share my conference learning and experiences with my classmates upon my return by: (Example: classroom activities/lesson presentation/games/handout/social media)

UPON MY RETURN

I look forward most to the following at the conference:

LOOKING FORWARD

MODULE 11

Cool Ideas

There are so many cool ideas that DECA chapters implement across the globe. Smart DECA advisors quickly learn to get the most value out of one activity. Rather than simply looking at an event as a fundraiser, for example, consider how it can also reinforce learning concepts, build membership or raise visibility for your chapter. If you are looking for new ideas, consider the following activities! Be sure to also look on DECA Direct Online for additional best practices.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership growth is the key to expanding DECA’s impact on your students and the local community. By recruiting student, alumni and professional members, you create a professional learning environment that enhances curriculum and better prepares your members for college and careers.

BE ACTIVE EARLY

Participate in events—such as conferences, social activities, etc.— early so members have a good experience and share it through word-of-mouth with potential members.

DECA GRAMS

Send “DECA Grams” or personal invitations to join your program to all potential members. Invite them to a chapter meeting to meet current members.

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Develop a partner sponsorship package to help build your professional level membership and further develop relationships with advisory board and other partners. Offer your business partners professional-level DECA membership, a position on your chapter’s advisory board or free advertising in your school-based enterprise and on chapter t-shirts. Invite them to serve as mentors or speakers in class.

MIDDLE SCHOOL WORKSHOP

In the spring, have chapter members conduct an entrepreneurship workshop for eighth graders—your future members.

RECRUITMENT CONTEST

Have a contest to see which class can recruit the most alumni, business partners and parents to join your DECA chapter.

RETWEET/SHARE CHALLENGE

Create a hashtag for your chapter to use during recruitment, stick to it and use it frequently. Then, have a retweet or share challenge with a specific DECA photo and hashtag. It can be a great way to reach a large portion of your school.

SUCCESSFUL ALUMNI

Ask alumni to visit with potential students and share their DECA experience and how it has positively impacted their college and career successes. Ask them to consider joining your chapter as alumni members to provide additional support.

SUCCESSFUL SENIORS

Have your successful seniors talk to freshmen, sophomore and junior classes about why they enjoy your program, the benefits of participating in DECA, the thrill of competition, etc.

EXPAND YOUR FOCUS

Consider inviting students enrolled in marketing, business, hospitality, finance, management and entrepreneurship courses to be a part of your chapter. They can get a lot out of DECA, too!

PARENT INFORMATIONAL NIGHT

Invite parents to an informational session to learn more about DECA and what your chapter has to offer its members. The focus is on helping parents new to DECA understand the level of involvement offered to each member. Parents of current members speak about their experience and what it’s like to be involved as a parent. Parents are offered the opportunity to join the chapter and serve as chaperones or judges at conferences.

“WHAT IS DECA?” VIDEO

Create a promotional video with members answering the question, What is DECA? The video can focus on competition, teamwork, DECA success, community service and leadership. Play the video during DECA Month to help recruit new members, as well as to encourage future members to sign up for a DECA-related course for next year.

PROMOTE

Share your DECA chapter’s success story with others. Through DECA, you are creating an environment that supports learning by allowing members to put their knowledge into action through projects and activities. DECA is helping your members connect to businesses and industry leaders who bring meaningful, relevant learning to the classroom. Utilize a variety of promotional activities to showcase your chapter’s success, create a brand for your chapter and develop an awareness and support of your program within your local and extended community.

ADVISORY NETWORK

Create an advisory network of local business leaders and invite them to participate in chapter meetings as industry insiders for guest speakers or to assist in preparing students for competitive events as mentors. Don’t forget to invite them to join DECA as professional members.

DECA MONTH PROCLAMATION

Request a proclamation signing from the mayor that declares November as DECA Month.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Find successful DECA alumni in your community or from your chapter and write a success story. Submit the success story to your local newspaper or share it on your school’s social media channels.

DECA VIDEO

Make your own chapter-specific membership recruitment video or show the DECA promotional video on your school’s communication channels, such as daily announcements and social media channels.

OPEN HOUSE SOCIAL

Organize a breakfast, lunch or coffee with students, parents and/ or administrators to share your chapter’s plans and goals for the year.

SBE PROMOTION

Distribute coupons to redeem at your school-based enterprise to showcase another exciting element of your DECA chapter.

SHOWCASE IT

Create a bulletin board or showcase in your high school to promote DECA. Display pictures, trophies, posters and upcoming conference locations.

TELL YOUR DECA STORY

Have members attend a local chamber of commerce or school board meeting and share their DECA story.

SILENT DECA FLASH MOB

Engage your members and reach the entire student body by conducting a silent flash mob based upon two of DECA’s Guiding Principles: Community Oriented and Professionally Responsible. During a school-wide assembly, chapter members can speak about the chapter’s community service activities and how DECA is helping its members become professionally responsible. Strategically place members in the audience wearing DECA chapter shirts or blazers and systematically stand silently holding signs that share information about DECA.

GET SOCIAL

Utilize social media channels to quickly deliver DECA chapter information to members and your community. Social media allows the leadership team to communicate to large numbers of members, as well as to promote chapter activities to professional, alumni and potential members.

SLOGAN-A-DAY

Celebrate DECA Month by sharing a popular advertising slogan each day over the school’s intercom system. The first student who can correctly identify that company’s slogan receives a prize such as a DECA coupon.

SERVE

Having a chapter that is community-oriented means that your members recognize the benefit of service and responsibility to the community, as well as the impact they have on their local and broader communities.

MDA MIRACLE MINUTE

Designate one minute during a school day dedicated to raising as many funds as possible for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

MDA SERVE DAY

Connect with your local MDA office and learn how your chapter can support a local family by helping with a day of lawn care, babysitting, cleaning or other daily chores.

CHANGE FOR CHANGE

In your school-based enterprise, ask if customers want to donate the extra change from their purchase to charity. If you don’t have a school store, ask a local business to participate. Then, donate the change to a local charity.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE

Organize a drive to collect school supplies to donate to students in your community. Work with the counselors in your school district to discreetly identify students who need the supplies.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY

Work with a local family to provide food and gifts for all family members in celebration of the holidays. Each member makes a donation and chapter officers purchase the food and gifts for the family members.

INNOVATE

Help your members find their inner entrepreneurial spirit by integrating entrepreneurialrelated DECA activities into your chapter’s program of leadership. Join thousands of students globally as they celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week each year.

MINI-THON

Conduct a Mini-THON, similar to a dance marathon, to support a cause. This event is multi-hour, interactive, fun-filled and studentled.

DECA’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Have members choose a DECA entrepreneurship competitive event and conduct one activity that is part of that event.

BRING IN THE ENTREPRENEURS

Invite a local entrepreneur to speak at a chapter meeting or during class, or organize a luncheon with entrepreneurial leaders in the community to visit with DECA members.

ALUMNI ENTREPRENEURS SPOTLIGHT

Find successful DECA alumni entrepreneurs who embody the entrepreneurial spirit in your community or from your chapter and write a success story. Submit the success story to your local newspaper or share on your school’s social media channels.

DECA CHALLENGES

Participate in the DECA Challenges. Have a competition between your classes, other classes or other student organizations throughout the school.

TAKE IT TO THE BOARD

Present an entrepreneurship presentation to the local chamber of commerce, school board or parent organization for your school.

TEENS TALK

Invite local teen entrepreneurs to share their personal experiences with starting their own business. From successes to failures, the entrepreneurs share that it’s never too early to become an entrepreneur.

TOWN BUSINESS TOUR

Organize a small business tour for your members that features a tour of local businesses and a face-toface discussion with each of the owners. Members learn about each entrepreneur’s individual story and have time for a question-andanswer session.

MENTOR PROGRAM

Invite local business people to mentor members on their entrepreneurship competitive events during a working session.

SBE CUSTOMER APPRECIATION CHALLENGE

Showcase your DECA school-based enterprise (SBE) by creating a special sales promotion challenge. DECA members are challenged to increase traffic and sales in their SBE by creating a customer appreciation event during Global Entrepreneurship Week aimed at teachers. Throughout the week students, on their assigned day, hold sales, host social media “shoutouts” and promote the SBE using a variety of social media channels.

PARTNERSHIP FOR SUCCESS

Work with a local elementary school and serve as mentors providing academic assistance to students who might be falling behind academically. Offer this same service to several freshmen in your high school, helping build confidence and encouraging involvement in school activities.

ADVOCATE

The goal of DECA Advocacy is to showcase the impact that DECA has in preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in your chapter. Celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month© in February by conducting a variety of activities that allow your members to advocate for CTE and DECA.

CONNECT WITH LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Connect with your local chamber of commerce or similar organization to share your chapter’s activities for the year, as well as your success stories by members.

CTE MONTH PROCLAMATION

Request a proclamation signing in recognition of Career and Technical Education Month and DECA from public policymakers.

INDUSTRY GUEST SPEAKER

Ask a business partner, including those on the National Advisory Board, to give an industry expert presentation as a guest speaker.

LETTER-WRITING CAMPAIGN

Conduct a letter-writing campaign to the Department of Education or state legislators about the impact of DECA and the value of their support.

PROMOTIONAL KITS

Make a promotional kit that highlights the impact of your chapter’s activities and share it with teachers, counselors, principals and superintendents. Do the same for public policymakers.

SCHOOL BOARD AND COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

Deliver a presentation on the impact of DECA to the local school board and/or school administrators. Deliver an impact report presentation to the mayor, city council or state legislators of your community.

SOCIAL MEDIA ADVOCACY

Share the benefits of Career and Technical Education and DECA each day of CTE Month.

CTE FAIR

Host a CTSO fair in February to celebrate Career and Technical Education Month. Ensure that each Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) is represented. DECA members speak one-on-one with potential members and share the impact DECA is having on their members, their school and their surrounding community.

CTE MONTH POSTER CAMPAIGN

Design and place CTE Month awareness posters throughout your school. These posters explain what CTE is, how it benefits students, ways to celebrate CTE Month and why students should join DECA.

FUNDRAISE

Fundraising is an essential component in helping maintain the chapter’s budget and in accomplishing its strategic goals. Without funds, chapter activities are limited. There are many different ways to raise funds, and successful chapters generally try several different approaches each year, be sure you know your school district guidelines for what type of fundraising activities are acceptable.

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

Create a sponsor package to propose to local businesses. Members will work to create marketing materials for the business in exchange for a sponsorship or donation to the chapter.

RESTAURANT NIGHT

Partner with a favorite local restaurant to plan a DECA fundraising event. On that night, a percentage or profit match from the restaurant of the night’s profits will go directly to your chapter.

CONCESSION STANDS

Reach out to your school’s athletic director to schedule a time for your DECA chapter to work the concession stand as a fundraiser.

BACK TO SCHOOL RAFFLE

Work with local businesses to create the ultimate back-to-school basket full of supplies for the school year. Raffle off the basket at your school’s open house or first backto-school event.

HAUNTED HOUSE

Chapter members dress up as spooky creatures for a Halloweenthemed haunted house event. Attendees pay to experience the thrills while giving back to your chapter.

‘TIS THE SEASON STAND

Run a festive hot cocoa or baked goods stand at your school before letting out for winter break.

CANDY GRAMS

Sell candy grams for Valentine’s Day to students at your school. Students purchase the candy gram and indicate who they want to receive it. Then, your chapter will pass out candy grams to recipients on Valentine’s Day.

SILENT AUCTION

Plan a silent auction event. Gather donated items and service-based vouchers from local businesses for the auction. Throughout the night, open bidding to attendees and the item goes to the highest bidder.

ICDC ITEM OF THE DAY

Select an item from your SBE’s inventory or create a product to serve as the ICDC item of the day. Profits from the item go directly to fundraising for ICDC.

SELLING TREATS

There are endless treats to choose from for fundraising. From doughnuts and candy bars to gourmet popcorn and cookie dough, there’s something for everyone. Work with a company to sell their treat to fundraise for your chapter.

CAR WASH

Set up a car wash in your school’s parking lot on the weekend and have chapter members wash cars.

PIE YOUR DECA OFFICER TEAM/ADVISORS

Participants purchase pies to pie your chapter’s officer team members/advisors between classes or during lunch.