Community Service Project Tackles Period Poverty in Ashland-Greenwood
Launch the media gallery 1 playerAshland, NE – In a remarkable display of leadership and community spirit, the Ashland-Greenwood FBLA chapter, led by students Vanity Laughlin, Peyton Nissen, and Kaylee Wilsey, has raised over $4,000 to fight period poverty through their "Hometown Hygiene" initiative. This project, aimed at providing menstrual products to those in need, has made a significant impact on the local community and beyond.
The fundraising efforts, spearheaded by the dedicated trio, were diverse and impactful, with events designed to engage the community while supporting the cause. Among these were a promotional evening at a local basketball game, a pickleball tournament, and a call-a-thon that involved reaching out to local residents for donations. These events brought together people from all walks of life, united by the common goal of fighting period poverty.
"The response has been incredible," said Vanity Laughlin, one of the project leaders. "We were so humbled by the support we received from the community, and we couldn’t be more proud of the money we raised and the difference it’s going to make."
The funds raised from these events were used to purchase essential hygiene products such as tampons and pads, which were distributed to local schools within the Ashland-Greenwood district. Additionally, the team partnered with non-profits, including the Friendship Home, to ensure these items reached a wider group of individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford them.
In an effort to ensure the sustainability of the project, the Ashland-Greenwood FBLA group also received guidance from the Tower of Tampons, a local organization dedicated to providing menstrual products to those in need. Their counsel was instrumental in helping the FBLA group identify key areas for distribution and navigate the logistics of product purchases.
"Working with the Tower of Tampons group has been an invaluable experience," explained Peyton Nissen, another member of the FBLA team. "Their expertise in handling these kinds of initiatives allowed us to make the biggest impact possible, ensuring that we are not just helping today, but also creating a lasting effect."
Period poverty—defined as the inability to access or afford menstrual products—remains a persistent issue affecting individuals in communities across the country. The Hometown Hygiene project has shone a light on this issue in Ashland-Greenwood, addressing the needs of those who face embarrassment, shame, or economic hardship when it comes to managing their periods.
"The impact of this project goes beyond just supplying products—it’s about dignity and equity," said Kaylee Wilsey, the third leader of the initiative. "We’re proud to be part of a movement that not only provides hygiene items but also gives people the confidence and resources to take care of themselves."
The Ashland-Greenwood FBLA chapter’s Hometown Hygiene initiative serves as a shining example of how young people can lead social change and create a lasting impact. With the support of the community, they have shown that when people come together with purpose, they can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
For the Ashland-Greenwood FBLA, the work doesn’t stop here. The group is already looking ahead, planning ways to continue supporting those facing period poverty in the future.