When Lynn Booth arrived at Commerce High School last year, she saw untapped potential. As the new Nutrition and Food Science instructor, she was excited to guide students through the school’s three-course pathway — Food Nutrition and Wellness, Food For Life, and Food Science — which ranges from basic kitchen principles to studying food at a molecular level. 

But Booth also had a second role: adviser for the school’s FCCLA chapter — Family, Career and Community Leaders of America — a student leadership organization tied to the broader field of Family and Consumer Sciences. She knew FCCLA could give students opportunities far beyond the classroom. The problem? Only four students were members, and the annual dues prevented many from joining. 

Last year, Booth secured a donor to help, growing membership to 90. This year, thanks to a $1,100 grant from HireSmart Cares, she can go even further: covering the cost of FCCLA membership for every student in the building.  

“If they want to join, it’s free,” she says. “That means even if they’re not in my classes, they can still participate in competitions, leadership training, and service projects.” 

Booth’s Nutrition and Food Science courses are open only to students who choose that pathway. FCCLA, however, is open to the entire school, and that’s where the grant changes the game. It means a student in any grade, taking any schedule of classes, can step into FCCLA’s world of leadership, competition, and service. 

Some FCCLA members will also be in Booth’s courses, where projects often tie directly to competitions, such as sports nutrition plans, career investigations, or food science demonstrations. But many others will come from different programs and still find their place in FCCLA through activities like community service, public speaking, or design challenges. 

For Booth, the real value of FCCLA is in the transformation it sparks. She’s seen students who were too shy to speak in class go on to lead teams, give public speeches, and take on leadership roles.  

“That’s what FCCLA is about to me — doing things for students to help them grow leadership and teamwork, skills they’ll need in the workplace,” she said. 

Events range from cupcake decorating contests to job interview simulations, from web design to fashion, from culinary arts to sports nutrition. The program also connects students to travel and networking opportunities, from regional meetings at the University of Georgia to the State Leadership Conference in Columbus. 

Booth’s goal is to affiliate all 530 Commerce High students, with at least 100 active participants regularly attending meetings and events.  

Community service is another major aspect of FCCLA. Members have organized food drives, created holiday support packages for students in need, and partnered with the Key Club for local library events.  

“Service gives students a sense of purpose and a connection to their community,” said Booth. 

While Booth continues to grow FCCLA, she’s also looking ahead for her teaching program, possibly expanding into a full culinary track. 

Her hope is that every student will see FCCLA as a place to try something new, discover hidden strengths, and gain confidence for life after high school. Personal finance lessons, leadership training, and career exploration are part of the mix — built into classroom projects and FCCLA activities alike. 

“The grant makes it possible for anyone to walk in the door and get involved,” she said. “That’s how you change a school culture — you take away the barriers and open the opportunities to everyone.”