All posts tagged: JA World

JA Celebrates 65th Anniversary Empowering 1.3 Million Youth

JA Celebrates 65th Anniversary Empowering 1.3 Million Youth

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF SOUTH FLORIDA CELEBRATES ITS 65TH YEAR EMPOWERING 1.3 MILLION YOUTH

Events will take place throughout the last half of 2024 and all of 2025, beginning with a Celebration for JA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program Graduates on July 26

Broward County, FL — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) will celebrate its 65th anniversary throughout the 2024- 2025 fiscal year. The nonprofit, which partners with Broward County Schools, has served more than 1.3 million students since its inception on Aug. 10, 1959, and annually serves more than 80,000 K-12+ students in 10 established programs. In its 65 years in operation, JA has stayed true to its mission to empower young people and give them the tools they need to succeed in the real world.

The first event to commemorate the organization’s 65th anniversary will be a graduation celebration for the students who successfully completed JA’s Pre-Apprenticeship program. This empowering program helps high school seniors and young adults pursue professional careers in the marine and construction fields. Participants undergo a 6-month training program, which sets them up to earn any of five industry-recognized certifications, fast-track life-changing careers and earn $600 in milestone incentives. The program then matches students with top employers in the industries and launches them into registered apprenticeship careers.

The Pre-Apprenticeship Graduation Celebration will take place on July 26 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066).

The second anniversary event will be a Celebration of Impact Breakfast, on Oct. 17 from 8 to 10 a.m. (also taking place at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion). Kicking off the new school year, the event gathers community business leaders, legislative advocates, Broward County Public School officials and other key stakeholders, who are committed to JA’s mission. The celebration will honor community trailblazers and feature ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new storefronts opening in JA BizTown and JA Career Discovery Park two simulated cities that teach critical skills in financial literacy, learn about career paths and gain the knowledge they need to join the workforce.

All of JA’s 65-year anniversary events will pay homage to the organization’s history. JA USA, JA’s parent organization, began in 1919 when founder Horace Moses, Theodore Vail, then President of AT&T, and U.S. Senator from Massachusetts Murray Crane, set the foundation for a global movement to bridge the gap between education and practical business skills Their vision was to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. In 1959 the Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale partnered with JA USA to launch a local branch. In 2009, JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, the largest single JA center in the nation, was opened on the north campus of Broward College.

To learn more about all of JA’s programs, visit JASouthFlorida.org.

Media is invited to attend both the Pre-Apprenticeship Graduation and the Celebration of Impact Breakfast. Interviews are available upon request with JA’s CEO Laurie Sallarulo, Pre-Apprenticeship Program Director Felix Collazo, JA Board Chairman Andrew Koenig, students in JA’s programs and other influential members of JA leadership. Press photos and videos are available. Please contact Senior Marketing Manager Christopher Miller at Ch*********@************da.org or (954) 979-7110.

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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 5,000 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 10+ programs to more than 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 Career Discovery 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 Celebrates 65th Anniversary Empowering 1.3 Million Youth
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Teen Entrepreneurs Secure FedEx 2024 Global Possibilities Award

Teen Entrepreneurs Secure FedEx 2024 Global Possibilities Award

Junior Achievement Of South Florida Teen Entrepreneurs Secure 2024 Global Possibilities Award Presented by FedEx

FedEx Acknowledges Innovative Business Plan Driving Job Creation and Environmental Sustainability

WASHINGTON DC — During Junior Achievement’s (JA) National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS), held from June 10-13, NSU University School SugarWare earned the 2024 Global Possibilities Award, presented by FedEx. Evaluated by a panel of FedEx jurors, the student company showcased an exceptional business strategy to foster employment opportunities while supporting environmental sustainability.

To qualify for the Global Possibilities Award, presented by FedEx, a Junior Achievement student company needed to be among the finalist teams competing at Junior Achievement’s NSLS. These talented teen entrepreneurs participated in additional sessions focused on the concept and impact of global connectivity, a program developed by FedEx that complements the JA Company Program®. The award recognized the JA student company that devised a marketing plan for a product or service showcasing a comprehensive understanding of global connectivity.

“FedEx was founded with one essential purpose: to connect people and possibilities around the world. We believe a connected world is a better world. With the strength of our global network and logistics expertise, we help our customers – from small business owners to Fortune 500 companies – compete more effectively in the global marketplace,” said Ann-Marie McIntosh, vice president of global brand at FedEx. “The FedEx Global Possibilities platform celebrates the power of global connectivity and the next generation of innovators. The Global Possibilities Award recognizes a student-run business that best exhibits the four principles of global connectivity: Driven by Innovation, Connecting to New Markets, Fueling Community Development, and Sustainability and Social Responsibility.”

The SugarWare journey began with a simple yet powerful idea—to combat CO2 emissions by harnessing the potential of sugarcane. The founders of SugarWare, all students at NSU University School, united with the common goal of creating products that are not only functional and stylish but also environmentally responsible. It’s not just a project; it’s a commitment to shaping a brighter, greener future. Learn more at https://sugarware.co/.

“Attending the Junior Achievement Nationals Student Leadership Seminar was an exhilarating experience, especially when we received the FedEx Global Possibilities Award. Winning this prestigious award was a testament to SugarWares commitment to sustainability and innovation. Our mission to reduce CO2 emissions aligns perfectly with FedEx’s environmental goals. This recognition inspires us to continue our journey towards a more sustainable world,” said Bari Eisenband, SugarWare CEO.

JA Company Program® is an immersive learning experience that empowers high school students to establish and operate authentic business ventures under the guidance of committed mentors from the local business community. Fueled by their passion, the teenage entrepreneurs identified an unmet consumer need, successfully garnered investors for their venture, and adeptly crafted and marketed their innovative product or service.

“SugarWare embraced the concept of global connectivity as a catalyst for industry transformation, market expansion, and sustainable growth,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “By harnessing the opportunities presented by global interconnectedness, these young visionaries can pioneer innovative solutions that transcend geographical boundaries, spur economic development, and effect positive change on a global scale.”

Junior Achievement’s National Student Leadership Summit serves as a platform to honor the remarkable business acumen, creativity, and innovation demonstrated by JA Company Program students aged 15-18 throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. The JA Company Program affords teens the invaluable opportunity to launch and manage their own enterprises under the guidance of local business volunteers.

Throughout the three-day event, student-led companies competed for various accolades, participated in engaging virtual seminars led by national experts in innovation, entrepreneurship, and business, and virtually presented their enterprises to a distinguished panel of judges comprising esteemed business leaders.

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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 Career Discovery Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About Junior Achievement USA® (JA)

Junior Achievement is the world’s largest organization 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. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers and provide relevant, hands-on experiences that give students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. Today, JA reaches more than 3.3 million students per year in 102 markets across the United States as part of 12.5 million students served by operations in more than 100 other countries worldwide. Junior Achievement USA is a member of JA Worldwide. For more information, visit www.ja.org.

About the Global Possibilities Award

FedEx serves as the global sponsor of the Global Possibilities Award, presented by FedEx for JA Worldwide.  To be eligible for the Global Possibilities Award, a student company must be one of the finalists selected to compete at the JA National Student Leadership Summit in the USA or one of the JA Company of the Year Competitions worldwide. Student company members must complete a seminar conducted by FedEx on the idea and impact of global connectivity.  The Global Possibilities Award, presented by FedEx is given to the JA student company which best demonstrates their understanding and application of global connectivity, leveraging international trade to create jobs, grow small businesses, expand global development and improve the environment.

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenue of $88 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions through operating companies competing collectively, operating collaboratively and innovating digitally as one FedEx. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040.

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

Teen Entrepreneurs Secure FedEx 2024 Global Possibilities Award
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South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day

South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day

South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day is expected to set the national template for other states

WIRELESSESTIMATOR.COM

South Florida will host the first national Broadband Careers Awareness Day, a broadband industry coalition led by Broadband Careers and supported by Junior Achievement of South Florida and Neptuno USA, Corp.

Open to the public at no charge (REGISTER HERE), the promoters have provided an opportunity for telecommunication companies, education providers, industry associations, and representatives of state, local, and federal agencies to convene on Friday, October 27, 2023, at the Junior Achievement of South Florida facilities at 1130 Coconut Creek Blvd, Coconut Creek, FL to brainstorm and discuss the many challenges and opportunities that are arising around broadband deployment. 

There will also be a strong focus on the attractive career paths offered to the youth looking to enter a dynamic, rewarding, and essential workforce.

Junior Achievement serves 80,000 students in Broward and South Palm Beach counties through the efforts of more than 7,000 volunteers.

Commissioner Carr and other dignitaries will be represented

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, an avid supporter of workforce development, will provide virtual opening remarks to attendees that will include Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz; Sean Lewis, Florida’s Chief of Broadband Initiatives; as well as officials from the City of Coconut Creek and representatives of Broward College, Miami Dade Community College, and Learning Alliance.

Representing industry associations will be Dr. Gemma Frock, Director of Workforce Development for NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, and Amelia de Jesus, Vice President of Workforce Solutions for WIA – the Wireless Infrastructure Association.

Miami Tech Works will also be in attendance. They have a coalition of over 200 stakeholders in the “tech” ecosystem that brings together a critical group of business leaders with education and training providers to align academic programs with the needs of employers.

Numerous industry companies like MasTec Network Solutions and SBA Communications Corporation support the initiative.

CLICK HERE TO READ FULL ARTICLE

South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day
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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 Career Discovery 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 Ro***@************da.org 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 Career Discovery 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 Career Discovery 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 Career Discovery 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 Career Discovery 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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JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20

JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20

The Book, Bucks & Backpacks initiative helps launch families into a successful
summer break by providing reading, financial and health literacy
resources to families in Broward County.

BROWARD COUNTY, FL — On Saturday, May 20, from 10 am to 1 pm, Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) will partner with local educational organizations, healthcare providers and businesses to host its annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks event, presented by CITY Furniture, at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066). Roughly 600 students and their families, totaling 1200 people, from area middle and high schools have been selected, based on need, to attend.

The event is a festive day for these registered families to come enjoy games, educational booths and giveaways. Every family is provided supplies to help them make the most of their summer breaks, including healthcare resources, academic retention materials, financial literacy tools, backpacks and school supplies.

This event promotes summer health and wellness, prevents the summer slide and teaches children the value of savings and money.

“It’s proven that over 60% of all summer-related injuries occur among children ages 2-11. Also on average, students lose 17-34% of the prior year’s learning gains,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “Summer can be an important time to keep students on track and give them momentum for the next school year. This event helps set families up for success.”

Thank you to the 2023 partners: Broward County Public Schools, Bright Futures Scholarships (funded by the Florida Lottery), the Early Leaning Coalition of Broward County, Molina Healthcare, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, CrewFacilities.com, Rick Case Automotive Group, BrightStar Credit Union, We Florida Financial, Bluegreen Vacations, ABC Florida East Coast Chapter, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Children’s Services of Broward County, City of Coconut Creek, City of Fort Lauderdale, Community Care Plan, Florida KidsCare, MCNA Dental, Sea the World, Truly Nolen, Universal Property and Casualty Insurance, Urban League of Broward County

For more information, visit https://www.JASouthFlorida.org/BooksBucksBackpacks.

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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 Career Discovery Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

Local media is invited to attend this event.
To arrange for press coverage or for media inquiries, please contact:

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

JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20
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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 Career Discovery 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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JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9

JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9

200 Broward County high school girls will participate in an empowering program and event, including inspiring speakers and mentors, a girls business fashion show and celebratory luncheon.

COCONUT CREEK, FL — The Girls Rule Initiative at Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) connects local high school girls with successful women in our community. Through mentorship,, girls are encouraged to ignite their passion, embrace their dreams and see by example, that they can be anything they want. On March 9th, JA will host its annual Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower program and event for 200 local high school girls. Girls will travel to JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066) to participate in mentoring workshops, hear from nationally acclaimed motivational speakers, model business outfits which they get to keep and attend a celebratory lunch. The workshops will take place between 8:30-11:30am, with the celebration luncheon immediately following from 11:30am to 2:30pm.

“The Girls Rule event is an impactful way for the next generation of young women to connect with and learn from inspiring role models and female trailblazers. Hearing their stories and journeys to success will fill these young women with hope for a great future.” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida.
Workshops will include impactful discussions on topics that influence young women, like self-care, discovering your passion, finding a meaningful career, goal setting, the value of mentors, how to stand out from the pack and the power of resiliency.

This year’s luncheon will feature keynote speaker Rachel McKenzie, an inspiring entrepreneur and wife of former Super Bowl champion Michael Terrance McKenzie. Rachel has been on a longtime mission to help entrepreneurs build and grow profitable businesses. Trained as a business builder, she has a unique 20-year background in communication, leadership, strategic planning and project management on multi-million dollar development projects.

Dr. Yvette Maureen—a 5-time author, TEDx speaker and entrepreneur—will also speak at the event. Dr. Yvette is universally characterized as an authority on business marketing strategies, total-body wellness and success. As one of today’s highly sought-after business experts, she has documented and shared principles and insight on peak performance with thousands of followers around the globe. As a researcher and professor, Dr. Yvette encourages individuals to look at the fundamental concepts of business to extract the keys that underlie all accomplishments.

Guests at the event will also delight in a “Dress for Success” runway fashion show featuring students from Boyd H. Anderson, Dillard, Plantation and Stranahan high schools who will model modern business fashions appropriate for their desired careers. For each $300 donated at the event, a young lady will learn how to dress professionally within the workplace with the latest fashion trends. The girls will keep the attire as a welcomed addition to their professional wardrobe. The fashion show is sponsored by the U.S. Polo Association, the non-profit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States and one of the oldest sports’ governing bodies.

The day ends with a champagne toast and professional networking. For more information, visit JASouthFlorida.org/GirlsRule.

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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 Career Discovery 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

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9
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Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge

Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge

Junior Achievement of South Florida hosts 33rd Annual JA Business Hall of Fame Awards

COCONUT CREEK, FL — From February 23rd to March 3rd, between 9:00 AM & 1:00 PM. More than 1,200 Broward County Public Schools and Charter high schoolers, representing 14 schools, will be competing in Junior Achievement of South Florida’s (JA) Stock Market Challenge at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion.

During the challenge, students compete against each other in teams in a simulated stock market environment that is hectic, loud, exciting and filled with energy. Student teams are given $500,000 in imitation currency used to make their initial stock selections from more than 25 fictitious companies before the challenge begins. At the end of the challenge, the team with the stock portfolio with the highest net worth wins!

“The secret to success during the challenge lies in students’ ability to collaborate with their team and their understanding of the big ideas about the stock market,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO. “This is just one of several programs JA offers that empowers youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy and lead our community.”

Last year, JA piloted the Stock Market Challenge with students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, and it was a success. “I loved the high energy of the simulation and will take the strategies used to be successful in investing in the real world,” Marjory Stoneman Douglas student said.

This year, Stock Market Challenge is being sponsored by Broward Sheriff’s Office and CitiBank. Special thanks to JA’s over 7,100 community volunteers for mentoring our youth for this and other entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness programs that impact 69,000 youth each year

Watch highlights from the 2022 event, as featured on WPLG Local 10 — CLICK HERE. JA Stock Market Challenge photos are available upon request.

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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 Career Discovery 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

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge
read more