What is FBLA?
FBLA is a national vocational student organization for students in high schools and middle schools who are interested in business or business education careers. Over 13,000 students in more that 300 high school chapters and over 4,000 students in 120 middle level chapters participate in Arkansas FBLA. Benefits of membership are leadership skills, business competencies, community responsibilities, and self-confidence.
Who can join?
Any secondary student in grades 9-12, who is interested in a career in business and has taken or is currently enrolled in at least one business course, is eligible for membership in the FBLA High School Division. Membership in the Middle School Division is open to students in grades 5-9 who accept the purpose of FBLA Middle School Division, subscribe to its creed, and demonstrate willingness to contribute to good school-community relations. Additionally, a middle level chapter must be chartered at the school.
What does FBLA do?
FBLA provides the business leaders of tomorrow with the necessary skills to successfully compete in the job market, pursue postsecondary education, or manage personal skills. Members learn how to lead and participate in group discussions by engaging in practical problem solving and decision-making activities. FBLA members learn the value of competition through directed competitive events.
What are examples of local chapter activities?
Professional
Professional activities provide members with a business connection for their future. Guest speakers, panel discussions, visits to business and industry, and shadowing experiences are used as instructional projects for a chapter's program of work.
Leadership
Participation in FBLA activities as a member, committee chairperson, or officer provides experiences that contribute to the development of a positive self-image and a feeling of accomplishment.
Community
Chapter activities that make a contribution to the community provide members with the opportunity to develop civic pride and responsibility. Members also meet influential business and community leaders, learn the steps necessary to complete a project, and work with business and government officials.
Service
The main purpose of service projects is to help others and these activities can be tailor-made for the school and community.