SkillsUSA members at Autry Technology Center apply technical skills to turn a calendar proposal into a $2,500 fundraiser

SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA
Sep 7, 2018 · 3 min read

SkillsUSA members in the graphic arts program at Autry Technology Center in Enid, Okla., like to think big. When the chapter decided to support a local nonprofit, Bennie’s Barn, they used their technical skills for good. As a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) certified program, Bennie’s Barn achieves a dual mission that helps both humans and horses. In addition to providing healing equine therapy to military veterans, disabled adults and children, Bennie’s Barn rescues abused and neglected horses and trains them to be therapy animals.

Inspired by this work, members approached Bennie’s Barn with the calendar idea and action plan, and the rest is history. Graphic arts students worked in partnership with board members, managing and delivering on every aspect throughout the process from design concept review and approval, to proofing and editing, to printing and production. The result was 500 professionally printed calendars ready for purchase at a holiday event in December. The calendars sold out, achieving the chapter’s fundraising goal and providing Bennie’s Barn with a generous check for $2,500.

According to member Ashley Gonzales, “We did a really good job of staying in close contact with each other during this project. We were persistent in our work as a team and with our client, Bennie’s Barn. I was able to apply my knowledge in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to make a difference.”

Computer and technology literacy was paramount as both morning and afternoon graphic arts classes participated in calendar development and production. Students used Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator programs to create the calendars, expanding their computer and technology-based knowledge and skill sets. Students applied job-specific skills in graphic arts competencies as well as collaboration with Bennie’s Barn board members as their client, setting and meeting deadlines, problem solving, and supplying a professional, high-quality product as scheduled. Service orientation was apparent in students taking the initiative to balance technical and production skills to benefit a valued community organization. Sounds like a calendar most people would proudly display.

“This activity connected us to an amazing nonprofit in our community while providing a professional product,” said Meagan Littlefield. “We experienced setbacks and frustrations, but we pushed through to stay on schedule. Seeing the finished product and being able to give Bennie’s Barn the proceeds was rewarding.”

    SkillsUSA

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    SkillsUSA

    SkillsUSA's mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens. SkillsUSA is a #skillsgap solution.

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