It’s never too early to teach children to take on responsibility, live a healthy lifestyle and care.

The Trendsetter Club at Fountain Hills Charter School exemplifies that philosophy. Facilitated by Lisa Ristuccia, the club’s 17 members – ranging from eight to 13 years old in third through eighth grade – develop leadership skills through service projects, volunteering in the community, participating in fundraising events, team-building activities, group discussion and field trips.

Activities and field trips vary from year to year, as do Trendsetter members.

The idea for Trendsetters developed in 1993 when fourth grader teacher Sharon Eivinsen’s students wanted a way to help make a difference in their community.

She and the late Rev. Stanley Jones, Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church pastor, knew about research that students thrive when they feel connected to their schools and community.

They also recognized that youth demonstrate limitless enthusiasm when they are given meaningful roles in problem-solving and service.

With that motivation under their belt and spurred on by students desiring to make a difference, Eivinsen and Jones created a model program.

Trendsetters became a 501(c)3 organization based on the scientific findings of the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets that help youth succeed.

The concept is that the more assets a youth possesses, the more likely he or she is to make wise decisions, choose a positive path and grow up to be a competent, caring and responsible adult.

Tax credit donations from community members fund this after-school program.

Since the school year began in August, the Trendsetters have concentrated on protecting and preserving the environment. The first community service outing was Oct. 2 to the Box Bar recreation area, along the Verde River in the Tonto National Forest.

Ristuccia said the litter and debris scattered in the wildlife habitat area surprised club members. As one youngsters said, “How people litter is disgusting.”

“There was a lot of trash…cigarettes, bottle caps. I don’t exactly know why people do that. It’s really annoying, especially to the people who like to camp there,” said one Trendsetter.

Buddy Ballew said they recovered a bench from the Verde River. They filled about eight large trash bags with debris, including carpet remnants. Even though trash bins were available to visitors, they chose to ignore them. The students said they felt that their cleanup endeavors made a difference.

A few members accompanied Ristuccia Oct. 20 to participate in Rio Salado Audubon Center’s Enchanted Trail event. The students helped teach children and adults about recycling, nature and science, then used black lights to show off nocturnal wildlife.

“We’re trying to concentrate on the environment, conservation efforts and learning about animals and making sure that we keep them safe,” said Ristuccia.

The field trips are optional. The club meets weekly on Mondays.

“A lot depends on what’s happening in the community,” Ristuccia said of the club’s involvement.

Upcoming projects are Operation Christmas Child, a Feed My Starving Children food packing event, Relay for Life and Salt River clean-up.