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Student-Run Nonprofit 'Facets' Surpasses $1 Million in Food Delivery

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 19:23 GMT by wjla
      Locales: Virginia, UNITED STATES

FAIRFAX, Va. - February 21st, 2026 - What began as a visionary initiative at Fairfax High School has blossomed into a substantial force for good in Northern Virginia. The student-run nonprofit, 'Facets,' recently surpassed the $1 million mark in value of food delivered to families facing food insecurity across the region. The program uniquely combines hands-on technical education with vital community service, offering valuable life lessons to participating students.

'Facets' isn't simply about delivering meals; it's a holistic learning experience. The cornerstone of their operation is a custom-equipped delivery van - a remarkable project undertaken by the school's auto shop class. Students aren't just learning to repair and maintain vehicles; they are fully responsible for the van's upkeep and operation, encompassing everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. This provides invaluable practical skills often missing from traditional classroom settings.

"We really wanted to create something that went beyond textbooks," explains Suzanne Hough, the auto shop teacher who spearheaded the van's creation and continues to oversee its maintenance. "The students are gaining proficiency in automotive mechanics, yes, but equally important are the soft skills - responsibility, project management, teamwork, and the profound understanding of how their efforts directly impact the lives of others."

The program's origins trace back to a growing concern amongst students regarding food insecurity within their own community. Initial research revealed a significant need, particularly among families struggling with economic hardship and rising living costs. Aaliyah Smith, a Fairfax High School senior and long-time 'Facets' volunteer, recalls the impetus for action. "We realized that while there were existing food banks and charities, there was a gap in reliable, direct-to-home delivery, especially for families with transportation limitations."

'Facets' addresses this gap by partnering with local food banks and grocery stores to secure donations and surplus food. Students then meticulously sort, pack, and deliver these meals directly to pre-identified families in need. The organization utilizes a carefully developed logistics system, leveraging technology to optimize routes and ensure efficient delivery. This includes a custom-built app - also designed and maintained by students - that tracks deliveries, manages inventory, and collects feedback from recipient families.

Over the past several years, 'Facets' has steadily expanded its reach, currently serving over 200 families weekly. The program has also evolved to incorporate nutritional education. Students work with registered dietitians to create meal plans that are not only filling but also provide balanced nutrition. They even include informational pamphlets with each delivery, offering healthy recipes and tips for food budgeting.

The success of 'Facets' has not gone unnoticed. The program has received accolades from local government officials and has become a model for other schools interested in implementing similar initiatives. Several neighboring high schools have already reached out to Fairfax High for guidance on establishing their own student-led nonprofits. There is even discussion of creating a regional network to share resources and best practices.

Looking ahead, 'Facets' aims to further expand its impact. Plans are underway to secure additional funding to upgrade the delivery van with refrigeration capabilities, allowing for the safe transportation of perishable items. The organization is also exploring partnerships with local farms to source fresh produce and reduce food waste. Furthermore, they're developing a mentorship program to pair younger students with experienced 'Facets' volunteers, ensuring the program's sustainability for years to come. The team is also working to expand the app's features to include a volunteer scheduling system, streamlining the logistics and increasing student participation.

"It's more than just delivering food," Smith emphasizes. "It's about building a sense of community, fostering empathy, and empowering students to become active agents of change. Knowing you're helping someone in need - that's an incredible feeling."

'Facets' stands as a testament to the power of student initiative and the potential for schools to play a vital role in addressing pressing social issues. It's a program that not only feeds families but also cultivates the next generation of compassionate and engaged citizens.