Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter is once again asking the community to clean out their closets and donate gently worn shoes to help raise funds for students participating in regional, state, and national competitions.
The school’s annual “Soles for Souls” shoe drive accepts gently worn, used, and new shoes of all styles and sizes, including athletic shoes, dress shoes, sandals, boots, and children’s shoes.
The fundraiser serves a dual purpose: helping Lakeside students cover the costs of attending FBLA competitions while providing economic opportunities for families in developing countries.
Through the Funds2Orgs fundraising program, donated shoes are distributed to a network of micro-enterprise partners, who work with entrepreneurs in developing countries to establish and sustain small businesses. The shoes are resold, providing income that helps families afford necessities such as food, clothing, and housing.
Lakeside’s FBLA chapter receives funds based on the total weight of shoes collected.
During the school’s 2025 shoe drive, community members donated 814 pairs of shoes, providing financial support for the organization.
Fundraising is particularly important for Lakeside’s FBLA students because of the expense associated with traveling to competitions. Lakeside is the only public school in Webster Parish that regularly participates in FBLA competitions at the regional, state, and national levels.
“We really appreciate the community helping us out,” FBLA sponsor Lesa Ward said. “We raise money for our students to attend various competitions throughout the year.”
FBLA is a career and technical student organization dedicated to preparing students for careers in business through leadership development, academic competitions, and career preparation. Its programs provide opportunities for students to develop professional skills, gain experience, and compete against students from across the country.
Community members are encouraged to support this year’s shoe drive by donating shoes they no longer need. All styles and sizes are welcome, and every pair contributes toward the fundraiser’s success.
Those interested in donating shoes or learning more about the fundraiser may contact FBLA sponsor Lesa Ward at 318-377-2133. The organization also welcomes financial contributions to help students attend competitions.
