To fully understand the nature of small business, it helps to gain experience running one. Mr. Klepadlo’s MVCC Accounting Class at Camden High School continued its tradition of putting students in that exact position through a service learning opportunity as the class held its 2025 Apprentice Challenge Fundraiser on April 1st and 2nd.
As part of the challenge, students are split into two competing teams with a common goal: Raise as much money as possible for a charity of their choice by creating a pop-up “Cafe” business. The teams had to select a name, a leader, and a beneficiary before setting off on the road to entrepreneurship. With one week to get ready, that road was a whirlwind journey.
The two teams were Team Kylo’s Cafe, and Team Baking a Difference. Kylo’s Cafe was led by Camryn Shenk, and named after Mrs. Tracy Hooker’s beloved therapy dog who has become a CHS staple. The team raised funds for the Rome Humane Society. Baking a Difference was led by Lily Price, and chose to raise money for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Students had one week to build their business and get ready for the challenge. They spent many hours outside of class soliciting donations for supplies, developing menus, preparing the desserts, and marketing their efforts to the student body. The menus included items such as ice cream nachos, whoopie pies, cold brew coffee, cake pops, lemonade, cookies, and brownies.
The experience mirrors many of the skills required to be successful in business, which Klepadlo feels fits in perfectly with his class curriculum.
It was a great way for them to learn leadership and teamwork skills, all while managing their time and staying organized to complete a task,” Klepadlo said.
On April 1st and 2nd, preparation transformed into action as students put their wares on sale in the Camden High School cafeteria during lunch periods. After two pressure-packed days, the teams combined to raise nearly $4,000 for the non-profit of their choice. This was a new record for funds raised during the challenge. Baking a Difference won between the two teams by a narrow margin, with $2,002.00 raised for Disabled American Veterans. Kylo’s Cafe raised $1,921.00 on behalf of the Rome Humane Society.
