Charles Henderson High School’s Lifesmarts Team has an opportunity to attend the National Lifesmarts Competition in Philadelphia April 20-24.

The team’s victory in the state Lifesmarts competition made it eligible for the six team members to attend the national competition where they will compete against teams from all across the nation. They will have opportunities to win scholarship money and prizes.

Doris Kelly, team coach, said the students are excited to have the opportunity to compete but are also very nervous that they may not reach the monetary amount needed to make the trip.

“Each state has numerous teams that compete against each other for the state title and we are proud to be the state winner and have the opportunity to represent Alabama at this national event,” Kelly said. “The team is in need of funds to help get to nationals. Travel cost is around $350 per person and lodging cost is running about $190 a night. The total cost of the trip is estimated to be around $5,500. We have secured about $2,200 and need to raise the rest by April 20.”

Kelly said anyone who would like to help make this trip a reality for these very deserving students is encouraged to contact her at 566-3510 ext. 5405.

Kelly said Lifesmarts is a fun and educational event in which everyone learns, expands their experiences and opportunities, meets new friends and explores new areas of the country.

“Lifesmarts is a flexible classroom educational tool that develops the consumer and marketplace knowledge and skills of teens,” she said. “The Lifesmarts program year runs on the standard academic year, August through April, to complement classroom curricula. Lifesmarts teaches teens to be smart and responsible consumers and citizens by focusing on consumer rights and responsibilities, health and safety, technology and the environment.

“In addition to the important information and knowledge that participants gain, they also develop teamwork, self esteem, verbal communication skills, leadership abilities and have fun competing.”

Kelly said that Lifesmarts changes behavior toward better decision-making and better us of money and resources.

“It provides teens with a good understanding of their consumer rights and responsibilities,” she said. “Because many teens begin work during high school, Lifesmarts helps them understand workplace protections, too. It teaches them to spot and avoid frauds and scams and to make smart choices.”