Franklin High School DECA is living proof that your chapter does not have to be over 200 members in order to excel. With only 80 members and one advisor, this enthusiastic Virginia DECA chapter has accomplished much more than some state delegations! The population of Franklin brings to light just how "DECA-enthused" this school really is. Franklin is a small tight-knit community--only 8000 people--and yes, everyone knows everyone! Franklin High School has only 400 students, with the Franklin DECA chapter the best known, and by far the most active student organization at the school.

Contributing to this outstanding involvement is the number of projects the chapter tackles each year. Every spring the officers meet and look over the requests from the community and school. Their list appears to grow each year as news of their success and ability to get things done spreads throughout the community. In the past year alone Franklin DECA has distributed food and money to the American Red Cross, helped to clean up after Hurricane Isabel, sponsored a team for the Alzheimer's Memory Walk, raised money and wrapped gift for families through Cops-for-kids, helped with Downtown Franklin Association's Annual Easter Egg Hunt, raised money for March of Dimes and much more.

Franklin DECA was asked why they take on so many community projects. Advisor Mrs. Sandy Atkinson said "Several reasons-mainly because it is fun and we like the good Public Relations… giving to our community has become important to our membership. Our rising upper classman are excited about the coming year and our DECA and Community activities."
Congratulations to Franklin DECA for being our spotlight chapter. Keep up the good work Virginia.