As school is in full swing, Junior Achievement of the Heartland (JA) is seeking volunteers to inspire and prepare young minds for success.
The organization needs community members, parents, retired educators, corporate partners, and others to step into classrooms and deliver JA lessons in local schools, JA said in a news release. With the new academic year comes the opportunity for JA to continue its mission of providing hands-on educational programs in financial literacy, work and career readiness, and entrepreneurship to students in grades K-12.
JA relies on its volunteers to deliver its programs, which are taught in the classroom. Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and industries. They bring real-world experience and expertise to students, the release said.
By sharing their knowledge and passion, volunteers help students develop essential life skills, such as budgeting, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
“Volunteers are the driving force behind Junior Achievement,” JA of the Heartland President & CEO Dougal Nelson said. “Their commitment and passion are what bring our programs to life, helping students gain the essential skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The impact our volunteers have on these young lives is immeasurable, and their contributions are vital to our mission.”
Junior Achievement is dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. Locally, JA of the Heartland serves 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Visit heartland.ja.org for more information.
Benefits of volunteering
By volunteering with JA, the organization said, individuals can:
- Inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential.
- Share valuable industry insights and personal experiences.
- Develop leadership and presentation skills.
- Enhance their community engagement and social responsibility.
Volunteers receive training to ensure they are fully prepared to deliver the curriculum effectively. They also receive easy to follow guidebooks and all necessary materials to facilitate successful classroom engagements. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, see available classes you can volunteer in, and to sign up go here.
