All posts tagged: JA Finance Park

JA Alumni Report 2021-2022

JA Alumni Report 2021-2022

Read Junior Achievement’s Latest Alumni Report

OVERVIEW

These are the findings of an Ipsos poll conducted between June 13-15, 2022. For this survey, a sample of 7,427 Americans age 18+ from the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii was interviewed online in English. This includes 1,003 Junior Achievement Alumni. The poll has a credibility interval of plus or minus 1.4 percentage points for all respondents and 3.8 percentage points for Junior Achievement Alumni respondents.

GENERAL IMPACT OF JA

According to the survey, just under one in five Americans (18%) have participated in the Junior Achievement (JA) program at some point during their kindergarten through twelfth-grade education. As part of their experience, more than three-in-four (76%) JA Alumni report that a volunteer from JA came to visit their class, after-school program, or another setting to teach them about money, jobs, or business. Among those who report that a volunteer came to their class, nearly two-thirds (64%) say they remember the concepts the volunteer taught them about money, jobs, or business. More than half (56%) say they are currently in a career or job, or have worked in a similar position, to the one their JA volunteer had. Ninety-two percent report that JA was a great experience overall, and nearly as many (91%) report that JA motivated them to learn. Strong majorities of JA Alumni report that JA played an important role in believing they can achieve their goals (90%), their personal development (87%), and gave them confidence in new situations (85%).

EDUCATION AND CAREER PATH

When it comes to education, jobs, and careers, similar proportions report JA positively influenced their decision to pursue higher education (84% overall – 83% White JA Alumni, 86% Black JA Alumni, 85% 2 Junior Achievement 2022 Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni), their professional development (84% overall – 84% White JA Alumni, 87% Black JA Alumni, 84% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni), and their career path (81% overall – 80% White JA Alumni, 89% Black JA Alumni, 82% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Ninety percent say it exposed them to different ways of thinking, 89 percent say it motivated them to succeed in their professional lives, and 88 percent say JA widened their horizons. Similarly, 88 percent say it made them think of new work opportunities or career paths. Four in five report that their careers are extremely fulfilling (80%). In terms of aligning education with career outcomes, nearly three-in-four (73%) JA Alumni who graduated from college say they work in a field they studied in college (71% White JA Alumni, 72% Black JA Alumni, 78% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Research by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows that just one-infour (27%) American college graduates say they work in the field they studied in school. Additionally, more than two-thirds (69%) of JA Alumni say they currently work in their dream career (72% White JA Alumni, 69% Black JA Alumni, 69% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Research by MidAmerica Nazarene College shows that only 25 percent of Americans say they are in their “dream career.”

CLICK TO READ THE FULL REPORT

Thank You American Express Foundation!

The American Express Foundation provides funding support to local JA Areas with a focus on engaging American Express employees to serve as volunteers. Through their grant, Building Financial Confidence in Underserved Youth, American Express Foundation will be impacting the lives of hundreds of students with financial literacy programs like JA Finance Park. Students will be taught to make intelligent financial decisions related to income, expenses, savings and credit.

Junior Achievement USA gratefully acknowledges American Express for its dedication to JA Areas with funds to support financial literacy lessons for young achievers.

JA Alumni Report 2021-2022
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JA Enhances Teaching Experiences with Cutting-Edge Technology

JA Enhances Teaching Experiences with Cutting-Edge Technology

Zebra’s ET40 tablets help the non-profit organization provide an engaging, efficient and eco-friendly way to simulate real-life scenarios for students.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is part of a worldwide network that strives to inspire and educate students in financial literacy, workforce readiness and entrepreneurship. Junior Achievement of South Florida is one of 100 plus Junior Achievement locations in the United States and serves approximately 80,000 students a year.

Kids Run the World

As part of its mission to better prepare students for real-world scenarios, Junior Achievement of South Florida offers interactive courses that allow kids to be adults for a day. JA BizTown is a mock city with 18 storefronts sponsored by real local businesses. When students arrive, they are assigned careers for the day, such as bank tellers, doctors, attorneys, magazine editors and meter readers. Students perform that role while interacting with other students and businesses within the town.

Eighth graders get a similar experience with JA Finance Park. While it looks and feels similar to JA BizTown, it is a different program with different goals. Students receive a profile and a life scenario for the day where they simulate real-life decisions for that profile. Additionally, students learn about different career paths they might want to pursue.

A More Interactive Experience

Before 2017, faculty printed course packets for students who attended both JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. The packets contained details about the course and each student’s role in the simulation. With thousands of students attending each year, the amount of paper printed each day was significant. Additionally, staff spent extra time printing course materials and preparing for the next round of students.

CLICK TO READ THE FULL SUCCESS STORY

JA Enhances Teaching Experiences with Cutting-Edge Technology
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JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast

JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast

Storefront Ribbon-Cutting and Community Impact Honoree Celebration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Broward County, FL — On October 24, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) will host its annual Community Impact Breakfast to honor JA partners, trailblazing leaders and unveil new and refreshed storefronts in JA World’s simulated cities — JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. Every year more than 80,000 local students participate in experiential classroom lessons and JA World simulations, learning financial literacy, entrepreneurship and workplace readiness so they can be prepared for the future.

This event is an opportunity for local leaders in business, education and philanthropy to network and celebrate the impact JA and its partners are having on the lives of our youth.  JA is honored to recognize community leaders and organizations dedicated to empowering and supporting youth through workforce development. The 2023 Impact Honorees are:

  • Stefano Selorio, Carevocacy – Distinguished Alumni Award
  • Michael Fischler – JA Board Impact Leader
  • Broward County – Government Partner
  • Broward Sheriff’s Office – Community Partner
  • TD Bank – Corporate Partner

We are pleased to announce Dr. Peter Licata, newly appointed Broward County Public Schools Superintendent, will be the keynote speaker to kick off the 2023-2024 school year partnership.

“Junior Achievement of South Florida is committed to helping our children find their passion and prepare to achieve their career goals,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “JA World is a unique asset in our community that provides an opportunity for students to connect academics and the real world of work. We’re so proud to welcome our new storefront partners, who are providing memorable opportunities for students to explore career pathways and learn valuable skills that will serve them as they enter the workforce.”

The storefronts, which are sponsored by local businesses, serve as fun, experiential learning experiences as our students begin to inform perceptions about brands of choice, career pathways and household/business financial management. Thanks to a partnership with Broward County Public Schools, every fifth grader and eighth grader in Broward County participates in JA’s immersive programs in the JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion.

The 2023 list of new storefront partners to be recognized at this event includes: Aetna CVS Health, Amazon, Broward County, Broward County Public Schools, Children’s Services of Broward County, It’s A 10 Haircare, Cozen O’Connor, Farris Foundation, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, South Florida Symphony Orchestra and United Way of Broward. Refreshed storefront partners include CITY Furniture, JM Family Enterprises (JM Toyota) and Sea the World, which features various marine industry businesses.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at:

JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion
(1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066)
8:00 a.m.-8:45 a.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
8:15 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Networking Breakfast
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Impact Awards Presentation

This is an INVITATION ONLY event. To inquire about sponsorships, please contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or call (954) 979-7124.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 5,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 80,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast
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Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant

Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant

Funding Supports Financial Literacy and Career Readiness Programs for At-Risk Youth

 

For Immediate Release 

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (June 23, 2022) – The Junior Achievement Florida Foundation has announced today that it has received a $70,000 grant from State Farm. The state-wide initiative will support Junior Achievement learning experiences in eight localities throughout Florida, enabling thousands of young people to participate in the organization’s nationally recognized financial literacy and career readiness learning experiences.

“State Farm believes that financial literacy education is critical to building stronger and more resilient communities” said Jose Soto, State Farm Corporate Responsibility Analyst. “Part of our education funding is directed toward initiatives and programs that support K-12 financial literacy and pathways for college and career success. We are proud to support Junior Achievement financial literacy and career readiness programs across Florida.”

Each of the eight Florida-based Junior Achievement areas will use the support to advance learning experiences most needed in their region.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA), along with JA Space Coast and JA North Florida will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance introducing high school students to the interrelationship between today’s financial decisions and future financial freedom.

“Thanks to partners like State Farm, JA can provide students with opportunities to grow their confidence and resiliency, explore career possibilities, learn and practice financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills they will need to succeed in the workplace and life,” said Laurie Sallarulo, Junior Achievement of South Florida President & CEO.

JA Tampa Bay, which includes Hillsborough, Polk, Highlands and Sarasota Counties will use the support for:

  • JA BizTown, a capstone learning experience that introduces 5th graders to economic concepts, workplace skills, and personal and business finances. They act as employees and consumers, from paying bills to handling customer service, they experience what it is like to earn and work in a community.
  • JA Finance Park, another capstone learning experience that is a real-life simulation, where students enter the game of life and apply financial concepts to balance their personal budget and learn to make choices that support their future goals.
  • 3DE schools by Junior Achievement, the newest JA learning experience, teaches students in high school relevant business skills and core competencies through business case methodology.

JA Miami will use the support to:

  • Provide local elementary students with an interactive JA Day where they will explore the concepts of financial literacy and workforce readiness.

JA Palm Beaches will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance at area high schools where students are introduced to the interrelationship between today’s financial decisions and future financial freedom and JA Inspire Career Expo where students explore their skills and interests.

JA Central Florida will use the support to provide:

  • JA Finance Park Virtual Advanced to 12th graders in Orange and Osceola districts where students will build a foundation for making intelligent and informed lifelong personal finance decisions.

JA Southwest Florida will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance, JA Economics for Success and JA Career Success

The JA Florida Foundation areas have worked with local State Farm representatives to build out an interactive Career Exploration booth for the JA Inspire Career Expo. This virtual platform provides students with the opportunity to explore over 100 business and education booths and listen to dynamic speakers. Live virtual interaction days are scheduled where students can ask volunteers industry related questions. Across the state over 25,000 students will participate.

All areas will offer volunteer opportunities for State Farm associates to participate either in person or virtually, the length and scope varies for each experience.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of over 5,000 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 73,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About Junior Achievement Florida Foundation

Chartered in 2010, the JA Florida Foundation represents the nine Florida JA chapters joining forces to link to schools across the state of Florida. This collaboration has allowed us each to grow our impact on our area’s marginalized youth through statewide funding and support. Junior Achievement delivers K-12 programming for entrepreneurship, financial literacy and career readiness. For more information on the organization, visit www.juniorachievement.org/web/ja-floridafoundation.

About State Farm®

For 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been and continues to be to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its more than 19,400 agents and approximately 61,764 employees serve over 91 million policies and accounts – which includes auto, fire, life, health, commercial policies and financial services accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 42 on the 2022 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com. ​

For More Information, Contact:

Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant
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Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement

Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement

Florida Lottery Supports Career Bound Program and Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event

For Immediate Release

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (June 1, 2023) — For the second consecutive year, Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is grateful to the Florida Lottery for recently supporting its Career Bound program, graduation celebration and the 2023 Books, Bucks and Backpacks outreach event.

Over the course of the 2022-2023 school year, over 200 high school students from Broward County Public Schools participated in Career Bound, which is designed to expose and prepare students for workplace success. Students experience industries firsthand, develop work skills through business case challenges and have the opportunity for summer employment.

The Career Bound staff recently celebrated the program completion achievements of 206 students (93%), which included a retreat and graduation  that showcased case challenge demonstrations, guest speakers and certificate presentations. In addition to Florida Lottery, this program is also supported by the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Broward County Public Schools, Community Foundation of Broward and various South Florida businesses and individual donors/mentors who play an active role in the student training, employment coaching and college scholarship elements of the program.

On May 20th, JA joined forces with Broward Schools, other education partners, local business and healthcare providers for the Books, Bucks & Backpacks event, presented by CITY Furniture. Over 700 Broward County students and their families attended. Thanks to supporters, like the Florida Lottery, JA provided supplies to help them make the most of their summer break, including healthcare resources, summer safety tips, academic retention materials, financial literacy tools, backpacks and school supplies.

“Junior Achievement is proud of its newly developed partnership with the Florida Lottery, which continues to be a dedicated partner to Florida’s schools and students by making education its biggest winner!  We are thankful for their commitment to JA’s mission of empowering youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy and lead our community,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO.

About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) inspires and prepares youth to succeed in a global economy. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 73,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit https://www.jasouthflorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About The Florida Lottery

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $44 billion to enhance education and sending more than 950,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue back into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,000 Lottery retailers and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $85.8 billion in prizes and made more than 3,566 people millionaires. For more information, please visit www.flalottery.com.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing. Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110
[email protected]

Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement
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Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens

Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens

April Celebrates Financial Literacy Month

This April we have been celebrating Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to creating awareness of effective money management skills and promoting this education among young people. When you consider that 47 percent of Federal Reserve survey participants said they couldn’t cover a $400 emergency without borrowing or selling something, and 64 percent of U.S. consumers are living paycheck-to-paycheck according to LendingClub Corp., we should be catapulted into action. Building a financially literate society is critical.

While certain groups—African Americans, Hispanics, lower-income people—have fewer financial resources, financial insecurity is an equal-opportunity issue that affects every demographic. Millions of adults, young and old, know what it’s like to be down to their last few dollars while waiting for a paycheck; what it’s like to go to the mailbox knowing there’ll be more bills they can’t pay; what it’s like to have credit cards maxed and borrow money to provide for their families.

These circumstances and others could be avoided with a basic understanding of personal finance. What if we could help young people avoid financial mistakes and prevent them from experiencing these hardships? What if we could prepare them for a future that includes buying a home,  saving for emergencies and building for retirement?

Recently, the Florida legislature passed a bill that requires high schoolers to take a financial literacy course to receive a diploma.

“Ensuring students have the skills to manage their finances will pay dividends for our state,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.

This is a major step toward preparing youth to make well-informed financial decisions, but we need more, and we need it earlier. If we believe financial literacy is a critical life skill, it must be included and supported in elementary, middle and high school.

Broward County Public Schools, believes in this education and 13 years ago partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) to provide every student with the education and experience to practice financial literacy concepts, develop work skills and learn entrepreneurial values. JA is part of one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the world that delivers hands-on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

In JA’s BizTown program, every 5th grade student participates in classroom lessons and a full day experience in a simulated city with life-like storefronts at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion. At BizTown, each child is assigned a job, earns a salary, saves and spends their earnings, helps run their business and contributes to running a mock economy.

“It’s great to see kids in action, getting a hands-on understanding of how money’s managed and how businesses are run.  JA programs immerse students in real-world environments,” said a mother and JA volunteer, Mercedes. “I was fortunate to learn about money from my family. They understood the value of money and importance of budgeting and saving. Many of my friends never learned this at home, and it wasn’t taught in schools, so they made a lot of money mistakes.”

In another wing of JA World, all 8th grade students participate in the Finance Park program. After completing classroom lessons that introduce them to career paths, they learn about real-life finance concepts like taxes, interest, credit scores and saving for emergencies. Students take on adult profiles and navigate a simulated town to learn about careers and budgeting their earnings.

“I wish I had this when I was young,” said Julie Franciosi-Jackson, an Assistant Principal at Crystal Lake Middle School. “This curriculum and experience gives students a chance to learn about career opportunities and how to manage the money they earn.”

When young people don’t see a path to a productive, prosperous future, they become disengaged and disenchanted. The consequences — financial hardship, debt, dismal credit scores — of making one poor financial decision can follow them for decades. One of the best things we can do for young people is prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood.

JA also delivers high school programs that provide financial literacy education, including, Stock Market Challenge, where high school students compete in teams to invest portfolios; JA Career Bound, a career exploration and employment preparation program; Youth Employment, a program placing students in paid summer jobs; Marine/Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program, preparing students for apprenticeships and employment, and 3DE, a model that transforms high school education.

We can all contribute to creating the next generation of financially literate citizens.  Get involved – mentor, volunteer, teach and support financial literacy today. Visit www.jasouthflorida.org.

Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens
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Debt.com Turns 10 and Celebrates by Teaching Financial Literacy to Students

Debt.com Turns 10 and Celebrates by Teaching Financial Literacy to Students

The nation’s premier debt-solutions company partners with the nation’s largest financial literacy program and awards $500 to one lucky student each semester.

PRNEWSWIRE.COM

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., April 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Debt.com is celebrating 10 years of helping adults get out of debt – by teaching children to never go into debt. By partnering with Junior Achievement (JA) of South Florida, Debt.com can offer debt-busting lessons to 20,000 8th graders every school year.

Since 2009, JA has been mentoring students in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy at JA World.  In celebration of financial literacy month, Debt.com ran a give-a-way and awarded one lucky winner $500 to be used for savings, investing, or helping with educational expenses. Iann Heredia of Coral Springs, FL was the winner – and he’s going to spend the money to learn more.

“The high school that I’m going into has a lot of tech-based courses like video technology and cyber security, so I’m going to need a computer for that,” Iann says. “So, I’m going to buy a computer!”

Hearing that pleased Debt.com President Don Silvestri . “We want to celebrate partnering with JA World by giving back to the students, and Iann just proves what we already knew: Those who go through JA World emerge with a brighter future. Without Junior Achievement of South Florida, an entire generation might not learn these valuable lessons .”

Debt.com’s JA storefront will add to that education. It features financial lessons on a variety of topics, such as how credit scores work, the true cost of credit when interest is applied, planning for family costs, and purchasing a home.

About: Debt.com is the consumer website where people can find help with credit card debt, student loan debt, tax debt, credit repair, bankruptcy, and more. Debt.com works with vetted and certified providers that give the best advice and solutions for consumers ‘when life happens.’

SOURCE Debt.com

Debt.com Turns 10 and Celebrates by Teaching Financial Literacy to Students
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Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons

Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons

Support will also include work and career readiness and entrepreneurship lessons

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (October 19, 2022) — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is one of five local JA operations across the country participating in a partnership with Synovus Bank. Synovus recently contributed $250,000 to Junior Achievement USA through its Here Matters Community Fund to deliver lessons on financial literacy, essential life skills, work and career readiness and entrepreneurship to thousands of students in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. The lessons will educate and empower children throughout their journeys toward a bright and successful future. The Synovus contribution was the bank’s first donation to a nonprofit since establishing the community fund.

Through this partnership, Junior Achievement of South Florida, alongside local Synovus Bank representatives, will determine which learning experiences best meet the needs of the Broward and south Palm Beach communities.

“Our research shows students are eager to learn about money, business ownership, and work and careers, but they often don’t know where to go for help,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “With the commitment of Synovus, we will be able to help thousands of young people gain knowledge in these critical life skills.”

JA learning experiences depend on volunteers from partners like Synovus to help bring lessons to life for the students it serves. As part of Synovus’ community outreach program called Here Matters, Synovus team members will help teach JA programs in local schools.

“At Synovus, our purpose is to enable people to reach their full potential,” said Sean Simpson, Synovus’ FL Division CEO. “JA inspires young people to take charge of their financial futures, and we’re proud to partner with the nonprofit to strengthen communities and positively impact future generations.”

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About Synovus Bank

Synovus Bank, a Georgia-chartered, FDIC-insured bank, provides commercial and retail banking and a full suite of specialized products and services, including private banking, treasury management, wealth management, mortgage services, premium finance, asset-based lending, structured lending, and international banking through branches in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee. Synovus is a Great Place to Work-Certified Company and is on the web at synovus.com, and on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

For More Information, Contact:

Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons
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Marine Industry Partners Commit to Renew Storefront

Marine Industry Partners Commit to Renew Storefront

The Marine Industry Storefront exists to educate the younger generation about the multitude of career opportunities in the maritime community

Coconut Creek, FL – August 30, 2022- In response to the workforce crisis being faced by marine industry employers, a group of local companies came together to educate young people about the variety of meaningful, good-paying jobs across the industry. The “Sea the World” storefront at Junior Achievement’s educational facility, JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, opened originally in 2019. Since then, almost 80,000 8th-grade students have experienced this interactive, simulated space that allows them to learn about career pathways across the marine industry.

We are proud to announce that the group of companies involved has grown and the storefront sponsorship has been renewed for three additional school years.  This renewal initiative was led by Christine Battles, AMESolutions.com and Sea The World Spear header, and Megan Lagasse, Marine Director at Pier Sixty-Six.

“The maritime community faces an aging workforce, with skilled labor being very hard to find. In an industry where skill sets and specialized career tracks are vital to its prosperity, it is important to expose young people early on to the various career pathways within the industry,” said Christine Battles. “It was quite a challenge to bring the industry and environment alive on the walls of the storefront, but when you visit you will see how we showcased shipyard trade workers, engine room specialists, yachting professionals, and other career specialties like marina management, training, boat building and more.”

Junior Achievement of South Florida provides programs both in classrooms and at JA World that bring real-world experiential education around work readiness skills, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy to almost 70,000 students each year. The JA Finance Park program is focused on providing career exploration and pathway opportunities across industries. It is also focused on personal finance education for every 8th grader in Broward County Public Schools where students learn to manage the income they earn.

One of the 8th grade JA Finance Park students shared, “This program helped me to see what it feels like to be an adult. I never knew I could do what I like which is cooking and being a chef on a yacht or a ship!  And I would make a lot of money! Thank you marine industry for showing me there are other jobs I never knew about.”

“JA is thrilled and grateful the marine industry is represented in JA Finance Park. Students are rarely exposed to the opportunities in this booming South Florida industry and this program is designed to make students aware of the high-wage career pathways. This storefront is a great example of industry leaders coming together to educate and influence future employees,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO, Junior Achievement of South Florida.

JA Sea The World storefront partners donated financially to support the program for three years and design and build out the space with exciting and engaging elements. Partners include: Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, Inc./AMEsolutions.com, AERE Docking Solutions, Cliff Berry, Inc., Elite Marine A/C, King Ocean Services, Global Marine Travel, IGY Marinas, Marine Industries Association of South Florida/MIASF, MarineMax, Inc., Maritime Professional Training/MPT, OneWater Yacht Group, Palmdale Oil Company, Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina, Roscioli Yachting Center, RPM Diesel Engine Co., Safe Harbor Marinas, Seabulk Tankers (Seacor), Thomas Marine Systems, Universal Marine Center, Wards Marine Electric, Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale, Wright Maritime Group. In-kind partners providing web hosting (AdvantageServices.net), promotional advertising (The Triton), branding, and graphic design (Good Label Co.) to raise more awareness about “Sea the World”. www.jaseatheworld.org

There’s still a lot more to be done in the maritime industry across the nation, but we’re grateful that JA Sea the World can continue to be a steppingstone in bridging the maritime workforce gap in Florida. A BIG thanks to the businesses, associations, and individuals who made this possible!

Hear What JA Sea the World Partners Have to Say

“From what we’re experiencing as a nation, now more than ever, our cause is crucial in gearing up our next generation of maritime professionals. It’s exciting to see the progress we have made so far with the Marine Industry Storefront and its impact on the students,” said Christine Battles, CAO, Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, “Our industry is a gold mine of opportunities for the next generation. I’ve made a personal commitment to inspire their interest in our field to keep the maritime industry as a thriving economic force in the state. Our JA storefront is a major step toward fulfilling this initiative.”

“For more than 60 years, Pier Sixty-Six has been an iconic waterfront destination in Fort Lauderdale and we are honored to be part of the Junior Achievement Marine Storefront. The Marine Industry is a vital economic engine for our community, and it’s our responsibility to protect our position as the yachting capital of the world. We look forward to sharing the many exciting job opportunities with the children who travel through Junior Achievement.” -Megan Lagasse, Marine Director, Pier Sixty-Six Marina

“Maritime Professional Training remains dedicated to improving lives through education. The JA Marine Industry storefront is an important initiative for the entire community, providing insight, opportunity, and promise to the leaders of tomorrow…… enabling them to “Sea the World” as a better place.” -Lisa Morley, Executive Vice President, Maritime Professional Training/MPT

“The success of Seacor Island Lines’ future is founded on good people. Our dynamic environment coupled with the diversity of our employees makes Seacor Island Lines an exciting place to build a successful career.” -Charles Gittens, President, Seacor Island Lines

“Safe Harbor Lauderdale Marine Center is pleased to partner with JA and the Sea the World exhibit to illustrate and showcase our industry’s opportunities in a unique way to help educate and attract future talent into our booming industry.” -Tim Sargent, COO International – Safe Harbor Marinas

“Introducing middle school students to a booming local industry assists in the long-term success of our community. AERE is a family-owned company and our son will be looking for qualified employees as he takes over operations.” –Vicki Abernathy, Chief Operating Officer, AERE Marine Group

“The Junior Achievement Marine Industry Storefront is going to make an enormous positive impact to 50,000 kids per year in South Florida by showing them the vast and unique opportunities that exist within the Marine Industry.   In the long run, our business Elite Marine A/C and other businesses alike will have more prospects to fill more and more job opportunities. The Junior Achievement Marine Industry Storefront is a huge win-win for both the community and the Marine Industry.” -Benjamin Koppenhoefer, President, Elite Marine A/C

“MarineMax is proud to partner with Junior Achievement on this wonderful project. Educating the next generation is extremely important no matter the industry. But we all share a love for the water, and it’s exciting to share opportunities in the marine field with up-and-coming generations.” – Chuck Cashman, MarineMax Chief Revenue Officer

“The Water Taxi is proud to partner with the JA Marine Industry Storefront and educate generations to come about this field. The marine industry is essential to Fort Lauderdale’s economy and lifestyle, and this storefront will help strengthen that for the future.” -Bill Walker, Owner of the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi

“The Marine Industry is one of the largest industries here in South Florida and it takes a huge amount of people and resources to sustain it. Palmdale Oil Company is thrilled to support the Marine Industry thru Junior Achievement. We are excited to show the children who visit the center all the different opportunities that exist within the Marine Industry, opportunities that exist right in their own backyards.” – Mallory Cheatham, Palmdale Oil

“Our goal, as a founding member of Sea the World, was to create another way to reach the future technicians, managers and supporters of our industry. The Marine Industry Storefront clearly identifies the myriad of opportunities that exist in the Maritime sector, as sea-going crew members or shore-based support staff. We look forward to seeing the storefront exhibit grow and continue to provide students with options and opportunities to succeed in our dynamic and exciting industry.” – James Brewer, Managing Director. Roscioli Yachting Center

“We are excited to be a part of the effort to help future generations thrive in an industry that has been a part of our family for two generations. Full speed ahead! “John C. Thomas, President, Thomas Marine Systems Inc.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Marine Industry Partners Commit to Renew Storefront
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Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership

Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership

Andrew Koenig Named Board Chair

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (September 1, 2022) — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) announces Andrew Koenig, CEO of CITY Furniture, as its new Board Chair to serve a two-year term. Mr. Koenig will continue the momentum built under the leadership of Tim Rubin, Director of Client Services at Kaufman Rossin, who served as Chair for three years.

“I am grateful for Tim’s support and commitment during a challenging time for nonprofits. Under his leadership, the board was dedicated to helping the organization stay financially healthy. Working with the Governance Committee, Tim also brought a focus on diversity, ensuring the board was represented across all groups, demographics, industries and expertise,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “I am excited about the future and to continue our work with Andrew Koenig at the helm. Andrew is a passionate visionary who will bring inspiring leadership to the board.”

CITY Furniture has been a company dedicated to improving the community for many years. Continuing the family tradition started by his uncle, dad and mom, under Andrew’s leadership as CEO, the company has committed to giving back 5% of its annual profits across five pillars: home, health, service, diversity and education. Andrew is personally committed to serving and giving his time to some of the organizations CITY supports, including JA.

“As a father, I understand how important it is for our children to have the skills and experiences they need to be successful adults and as a business leader, I realize the importance of building a future pipeline of employees. I love that through Junior Achievement all children have access to this real-world education that helps prepare them for work and life. They need us today and we will need them tomorrow,” said Andrew Koenig.

CITY Furniture has been involved with Junior Achievement of South Florida since the opening of JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion 14 years ago. CITY Furniture is a JA Finance Park storefront partner, impacting over 20,000 8th graders each year with career exploration and personal finance education. CITY also donates money raised through their “Test Rest” campaign, sponsors JA events and hires JA interns through the Youth Employment program. Their financial support and involvement as volunteers set a great example for other companies.

JA is also pleased to share the appointment of Executive Committee Members Lisa Anderson, Jeni Chokron, Monique Corker, Kathy Foster, David Greenberg, Brenda Horner, Geoffrey Horst, Tom Loffredo, Lois Marino, Joel Mayersohn, Stuart Morris, Monica Navarro, Steve Nudelberg, John Ray III, Tim Rubin, Franki Lupo Schmidt, Greg Thompson and Mark Walter.

JA’s Board of Directors is composed of 70 business, education and community leaders that bring a strong and balanced blend of skills, experiences and perspectives to the organization. “I am proud to lead with such a diverse, forward-thinking, committed group of board members who are passionate advocates for JA’s vision to help train the next generation of business leaders, employees, employers and consumers. Together, we will continue to increase awareness of JA’s work and partner with the Broward County School District to deepen the impact for each student,” said Andrew Koenig.

Learn more about the Board of Directors at JASouthFlorida.org/Board-of-Directors.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida
Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership
read more