With support from United Way’s Big Cover Up initiative, Wahama FBLA students designed and produced school-branded crewnecks and hoodies for classmates in need. The project addressed an immediate need for warm clothing while also promoting a sense of belonging and school pride.
United Way’s Big Cover Up initiative provides grants to local schools to fund projects that deliver warm clothing, food, and hygiene items to classmates and families in need during the winter.
Using a project-based learning framework, students were involved in every stage — from identifying the need to designing apparel, managing budgets and logistics and coordinating distribution. Rather than completing a one-time activity, students engaged in sustained inquiry and collaboration, gaining hands-on experience in leadership, communication, and project management.
HATS staff supported the project by guiding students through planning and reflection, reinforcing college and career readiness skills. The effort aligned with Talent Search goals by promoting student agency, self-advocacy and real-world application of classroom learning.
United Way’s investment in student-led service projects helped make this initiative possible, empowering young leader to create meaningful solutions that directly benefit their peers. The collaboration also highlighted the value of partnerships between schools, community organizations and federal programs like TRIO in supporting both academic success and basic student needs.
For Wahama students, the impact went beyond a hoodie or crewneck. The project strengthened school culture, built confidence and demonstrated how leadership and service can spark lasting, positive change. Together, HATS, United Way and Wahama FBLA showcased how project-based learning can transform education into an authentic, community-driven experience—one that prepares students for success in school, careers and life.