DECA is no stranger to the improvement and development of young minds. Throughout their 70 years in service, they have molded countless lives and have impacted change on over 10 million students, teachers, educators and the like.

Among the many DECA projects the not-for-profit organization has organized, their community service is prominent. Whether it helps the local neighborhood or touches the international ground, there’s a lot to be inspired by the group’s efforts.

If you are looking for community projects to start in your school or local community, then you’re in the right place.

Below are DECA service ideas that will inspire you to come up with your own.

1. Cook a meal in a soup kitchen

If you or your fellow students are passionate about cooking, why not share your gift to those who are in need? There are a lot of shelters and soup kitchens that regularly need volunteers. All you have to do is reach out to them and see what you can do to help.

Communicate with your fellow volunteers and other chapter members. Have everyone bring something different so that it will be an incredible feast for the homeless, hungry and in need. If you don’t have a knack for cooking, you can always help out in other ways such as packing and distribution.

2. Send letters to deployed soldiers

Soldiers risk their lives every day to help protect and serve our country. They are far away from home and are in need of comfort especially during these hard times. More than anything, they certainly will appreciate any token of gratitude, appreciation or an assurance that their efforts are not in vain.

Another DECA service idea you can take after is by writing these soldiers letters. Let them know that their heroic acts are vastly appreciated. People back home couldn’t be more grateful for the sacrifices they are making. You can get in touch with a local organization to help you send these letters.

3. Organize a coat drive

The holiday season is upon us, and so is the cold weather. Many homeless people don’t have the capacity or resources to keep themselves warm during this time. So one of the best ideas is to organize a coat drive so you can give warmth to those in need.

You can ask your school to donate coats, jackets or scarves. You can even ask the help of your local community so you can gather more. From here, have a plan on how you intend to give them, so no one gets left behind.

4. Offer tutoring to younger students

DECA projects include introducing the organization to younger groups of students. One of the best ways they do this is by providing to tutor to younger students. Not only do they get to help these children improve academically. They are also able to introduce their group and cause thereby inspiring these young kids at an early age.

Be inspired by this idea by organizing your tutoring programs. Get in touch with your teachers and faculty advisors on how you can help the younger students in your school or even those from shelters and other facilities.