Future Homemakers of America, Inc.

Future Homemakers of America, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that was previously known as the Future Homemakers of America (FHA). It is now part of a broader organization known as the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

History

Future Homemakers of America was founded on June 11, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, as a national organization for students in home economics classes. The organization was initially supported by the American Home Economics Association and had a membership of over 90,000 students at its inception. It grew rapidly, with over 250,000 combined members from FHA and its sister organization, New Homemakers of America, by 1949[1][2].

In 1965, FHA merged with the New Homemakers of America, a separate organization established in southern states where racial segregation was prevalent. This merger occurred during a period of significant social change following the Civil Rights Act of 1964[2][3]. By 1966, FHA's membership peaked at over 607,000 members[1][2].

In the early 1970s, FHA began to include Home Economics Related Organizations (HERO) chapters to focus more on career development alongside family and personal life skills. In 1973, males were allowed to join FHA, with Toney Bingham becoming the first male national officer[1][4]. In 1999, the organization's name was changed to Family, Career and Community Leaders of America to reflect its expanded mission and focus on career preparation[2][5].

Mission and Programs

Historically, FHA aimed to promote home economics skills and appreciation for home life among young people. After its merger and name change, the organization shifted to empower students to take on multiple roles as family members, wage earners, and community leaders. FCCLA offers a variety of programs designed to foster leadership skills, family and consumer sciences knowledge, and community service initiatives[2][5]. Programs like STAR Events and Competitive Recognition Events provide students with opportunities to develop and showcase their skills in areas such as nutrition, fashion, and hospitality[5].

The organization's current mission is centered around promoting personal growth and leadership development through family and consumer sciences education. It focuses on issues affecting families, schools, careers, and communities, emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and career preparation[2][5].

Legacy

As part of FCCLA, the legacy of Future Homemakers of America continues to influence the development of young leaders across the United States. Today, FCCLA has over 245,000 student members and more than 7,300 chapter advisers, supporting students in middle school through grade 12 and post-secondary education[2].