Wisconsin DECA Direct

This year, Wisconsin DECA’s "Chalk the Walk" initiative proved just how powerful art can be in bringing communities together across the state. Over $800 was raised, and well over 11 chapters participated in turning sidewalks and parking lots across the state into vibrant artworks that showcased the creativity and passion of DECA members. But more than that, they helped to raise money in support of various charitable organizations reminding us of the great impact that can be done by something even as small as a piece of chalk.

Chalk the Walk was a service-based initiative where DECA chapters have the opportunity to host a chalk art contest within their communities, where participants created artwork centered around the theme of "Celebrating Diversity”. Chapters raised money through the sale of chalk and donated profits towards charitable organizations of their choice. Winning art from each chapter was submitted to the state-level competition to compete for a grand prize of $1000 to be split in half for the winner and a charitable organization of their choosing.

The goal of "Chalk the Walk" this year was to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, but chapters took this theme and ran with it. Artworks started conversations about representation and the importance of embracing differences while becoming spaces for individual expression. And while the chalk may have washed away, the impact of these messages will continue to linger in communities.

Thanks to the hard work of these chapters, Wisconsin DECA raised well over $800 to support numerous charities. The real success of this initiative wasn’t in the numbers—it was in the creativity shown, the conversations started, and the inspiration sparked by these incredible designs. To the chapters that participated, thank you for making this year’s "Chalk the Walk" unforgettable and I look forward to how Wisconsin DECA keeps this momentum going and continue building a brighter, more equitable and inclusive future.