Fairbury High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter is leading a powerful community effort this week to raise cancer awareness through its annual “Pink Out / Dig Pink” campaign.

The event unites students, staff, and community members in the fight against cancer through education, service, and spirit days. The week includes collaborations with the Milford and Wilber-Clatonia FBLA chapters, as well as Jefferson Community Health & Life.

The campaign kicked off Monday with a Cancer Awareness Convocation at the Burkley Fine Arts Center, featuring Fairbury alum and cancer survivor Isaac Robertson talking about his perseverance.

Throughout the week, students are taking part in themed activities, including a big one tonight (Tuesday) where a Dig Pink Volleyball Triangular, which will feature a three-school awareness pink-out match with Milford and Wilber-Clatonia.   During the match, a bucket will be passed around the gym collecting donations for their cause.

Other activities planned this week include:  

  • Coins for a Cure & Letters of Hope (Oct. 23): Fundraising and letter-writing for local cancer patients.

  • Pink Out Football Game (Oct. 24): A community event honoring survivors and remembering those lost.

FBLA Secretary Micah Friesen said the week’s message hits close to home.

“Our slogan is ‘Three schools, one cause,’ and it’s really cool to see everyone come together,” Friesen said. “It’s powerful when you realize how many people around you have been touched by cancer.”

FBLA Adviser Tammi Mans said this year’s campaign has expanded partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

“We wanted to make this more than a school event,” Mans said. “Jefferson Community Health & Life, McBattas, and local businesses have been amazing partners. The hospital’s ‘Jeans for a Cause’ day and shirt sales directly help us give back in the form of gas gift cards for patients traveling to treatment.”

Funds raised throughout the week will support Jefferson Community Health & Life, with a focus on easing transportation costs for local cancer patients.

Mans said donations from the public are always welcome.

“We love when community members get involved,” she said. “Every dollar helps, and it’s important for our students to learn the value of gratitude and giving back.”

For more information or to donate, contact Fairbury High School FBLA or visit their Facebook page.