All posts tagged: Junior Achievement

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 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

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 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

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge
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Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence

Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence

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

COCONUT CREEK, FL — On April 21, Junior Achievement of South Florida will host its 33rd annual JA Business Hall of Fame Awards Dinner, presented by American Express. This highly anticipated celebration recognizes outstanding leaders who have shown bold vision, commitment to excellence, courageous leadership and community responsibility. Masters of Ceremony Steve Hudson and Andy Cagnetta will guide us through the cocktail-attire event which will take place at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

This year, we will induct three extraordinary leaders into the JA Business Hall of Fame; Carolyn Aronson, Founder of It’s a 10 Haircare; Gary Press, CEO of Fortress Legal Plan, CEO of Alternative Revenue Solution and former CEO of Lifestyles Magazines; and Gregory Haile, President of Broward College. They will join a prestigious group of over 120 Laureates.

JA will honor its first Youth Laureates, recognizing exceptional young innovators. Setting the bar high with this first honor are twin sisters, Hadley and Delaney Robertson, who launched BraceTrack, an app that helps people like them, living with scoliosis.

JA will also continue to celebrate the legacies of Wayne and Marti Huizenga and Melissa Aiello. The Huizenga Lifetime Legacy Award, named in 2016 in honor of two of our most selfless community advocates and philanthropists, will be presented to Mike and Alice Jackson. The Jacksons, like the Huizengas, have created lasting change and left a deep legacy on our community.

The Melissa Aiello Character Award will be given to Allison and Andrew Cagnetta. This award was created in 2015 in honor of the late Melissa Aiello, past President & CEO & President of Junior Achievement of South Florida, who lived her life dedicated to service, integrity and honor. The Cagnettas live and serve with integrity and honor and possess a strong commitment to giving back.

“We are so thankful for these incredible leaders who have supported our mission and the greater community,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “These leaders are role models to nearly 70,000 students who participate in JA’s innovative entrepreneurship, financial literacy and career readiness programs. This event gathers our community’s top leaders and philanthropists to pay tribute to the outstanding accomplishments of the honorees,” added JA Board Chair and CEO of CITY Furniture, Andrew Koenig.

This event is JA’s biggest fundraising event of the year, supporting programs that prepare our young people for successful lives and careers. We’d like to thank our 2023 top sponsors, including American Express, Delta Air Lines, Rick Case Automotive Group, CITY Furniture, Leo Goodwin Foundation, Mike and Alice Jackson, TD Bank, Transworld Business Advisors, Broward College, BBX Capital, Celebrity Cruises, Fifth Third Bank, Ron & Rachel Antevy (Antevy Capital), Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, American National Bank, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Karen & Scott Rassler and Republic Services.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and digital advertising, contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or by calling (954) 979-7124. Tickets can also be purchased online at JASouthFlorida.org/BusinessHallofFame.

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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

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence
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Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023

Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023

JA World Uncorked 2023

By Rachel Galvin
Let’s Talk Magazine

Exotic, glamorous, risque, festive, exciting… These are all words that could be used to describe Moulin Rouge. Perhaps, that is why the enticing concept was used as a theme for the latest JA World Uncorked, held on January 28 at the JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, 1130 Coconut Creek Blvd. in Coconut Creek. Hosted by the Circle of Wise Women, this yearly event benefits Junior Achievement of South Florida.

The theme wasn’t the only thing they changed this year. The event continues to improve, and this year, they brought in more money than ever before – a historic $345,000 and more than 700 guests!

Also this year, the food options seemed more diverse than ever, and delicious, everything from a light and airy panna cotta to a soul-satisfying smoky pulled pork. Guests could start with trying a Caesars salad and tortilla soup and maybe grab some of Yot’s famous fish dip and move on to items like sliders, prime rib, pasta, sashimi and countless other delectable options from local restaurants, and then finish with desserts like cookies, cake, cream puffs, tarts or Italian Ice.

The spirits on hand were just as plentiful and varied. Guests could choose a refreshing and lemony light KLEO-Patra, a mixture of the Greek spirit KLEOS, lemon juice, simple syrup and basil, or opt for a taste of a creamy Pennyslvania Dutch Salted Caramel drink. They could sip their favorite wines, grab a gelatin shot, choose a craft beer from Funky Budha, enjoy Canyon’s prickly pear margarita and more. There was even an espresso martini cart, by Gray Robinson, P.A, where the purveyor got on the bicycle attached and pedaled to grind his own coffee! Yvette and Bob Birdsong sponsored a welcome cocktail for everyone… the Capital Grill Stoli Doli. The variety of wine, spirits, beer and seltzers kept guests happy all night long and the culinary options kept them smiling. DJs played music throughout while guests roamed.

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Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023
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Be a Game Changer

Be a Game Changer

Volunteers Help Level the Playing Field of Life

“Practice makes perfect.” – Benjamin Franklin

This is a quote we have heard from the time we were little even into adulthood. If you were an athlete, you heard it from your coaches, support staff, and parents. Now imagine this quote never existed and instead read, “Good luck. I hope it works out for you.” No one explained the rules of the game. No practice. No game plan. No coaches. Just go out there and do your best, kid, but your best wasn’t good enough. It would be unfair, but nobody would blame the player. They would blame the circumstances.

This type of scenario doesn’t happen in sports, but it does happen in the game of life. No one explains the rules. No discussions of how money works. No game plan for how education supports your future job or career. And certainly, no coaching about how to start or run a business. We’re told just go out there and do your best, kid. But our best isn’t good enough. We’re unprepared for the game. This time, though, people blame the player. Not the circumstances. A more fitting saying would be, “it’s a dog-eat-dog world” …until now.

Volunteers are the game-changer!

They are the player that ignites those around them to do better and be better. They are the player that changes the “on court” or “on field” energy that’s a spark plug and leads the team to victory. They are the ones that young people need. Young people need someone to share their personal and professional experiences and skills to help them make the connection between what they learn in school and life outside the classroom. Someone they can relate to and yet aspire to be. They need someone you wish you had.

Our research shows that students who have experienced Junior Achievement go on to have a greater belief in self and sense of purpose. They report higher levels of career satisfaction, confidence in managing money, and willingness to start and run a business.

So, whether you are working in an office, hybrid, or from home, there are many opportunities for you to find the best way to engage with students. They need your support. Suit up. It’s game time.

JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER FAMILY
Be a Game Changer
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Go Riverwalk Magazine: JA’s Educational Programs

Go Riverwalk Magazine: JA’s Educational Programs

JA World Uncorked Returns to Help Students Thrive

By Madelaine K. Boyer
Go Riverwalk

January 2023 Edition

Throughout her high school career, Jonerra Henrisnor has soaked up financial literacy, entrepreneurship skills and career readiness through several programs at Junior Achievement of South Florida.

The Stranahan High School senior, who aspires to attend Florida A&M University and eventually become an orthodontist, has been involved in different JA programs, including its career bound and summer internship programs. She has even gone on to get a job at State Farm as part of their youth employment program where she has already gotten her Florida 4-40 Customer Representative license and is working toward getting her life insurance license.

Henrisnor is one of 54,000 students that the South Florida organization reaches each year. “It’s amazing to see how far she’s come,” said Kenneth Hart, one of her teachers at Stranahan High School. “I had her as a ninth grader and she was always intelligent and just very bright even before she was put into the Junior Achievement Program.

“But now, as a senior, after getting involved in their programs, I can see how it helped her harness her abilities and put them towards her life outside of school. It gave her something new to work towards,” Hart said. Attending JA of South Florida has been a positive experience, Henrisnor said.

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Go Riverwalk Magazine: JA’s Educational Programs
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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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JA & Broward County Public Schools Partner to Launch 3DE Schools

JA & Broward County Public Schools Partner to Launch 3DE Schools

Innovative Model Proven to Accelerate Student Engagement and Academic Outcomes

CITY OF COCONUT CREEK, FL (September 20, 2022) – “EDUCATION IS TRANSFORMATIONAL. IT CHANGES LIVES.” ~ Condoleezza Rice. 3DE schools by Junior Achievement is transforming the high school education experience across the country. This educational model re-engineers high school education to be more relevant, experiential and authentically connected to the complexities of the real world to prepare today’s students for the demands of tomorrow’s economy.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) was selected to be among 10 JA areas of 102 in the US, to bring this new approach to high school education in its local school district. JA has partnered with Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) to launch the 3DE model in two schools this fall. McArthur High School and Charles W. Flanagan High School were selected by BCPS as the first schools to implement the model.

“BCPS is thrilled to partner with JA to bring 3DE to our local high schools. Our long-time partnership with JA is one of alignment and collaboration. The outcomes this model is demonstrating are outstanding and we look forward to reporting similar results in the next few years. Our mutual goal is to provide the most engaging learning environment possible for our students. JA programs complement the work of BCPS in the classroom, at JA World and in the community,” said Dr. Vickie L. Cartwright, Broward County Public Schools Superintendent.

3DE is a holistic, comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to reconstruct traditional high school education, combining core academics with real world application. Delivering the model includes everything from restructuring the school organization, reconstructing the curriculum design, teacher development and support, case challenge application and the involvement of business partners.

“JA is honored to have been selected as one of the 10 locations to launch 3DE nationally.  This school model fully prepares students for tomorrow’s demands by integrating business challenges directly into education to heighten students’ appreciation for academics (e.g., Reading, History, Math, Science, etc.) and long-term workforce aspirations,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO, Junior Achievement of South Florida.

Today’s complexities require a new approach within education that will position all students for opportunity. 3DE is helping to ensure that students graduate with the skills, mindsets and goals to be successful in the future. Our goal is to accelerate economic competitiveness and expand opportunity for all.

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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 3DE by Junior Achievement:

3DE is a subsidiary non-profit organization under Junior Achievement USA, based in Atlanta, Ga, dedicated to re-engineering high school education nationwide.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT 3DE SCHOOLS:

APPROACH – WHAT MAKES 3DE UNIQUE:

The 3DE school “within-a-school” model uses real-world experiences to connect standards-based learning and project-based application to create interdisciplinary learning environments. This model breaks through traditional barriers and redesigns the framework of education from the inside out – expanding economic opportunity for ALL students. It…

  1. Provides access and exposure for students to diverse, high-growth careers
  2. Provides businesses with innovative perspectives to discover new productivity ideas and/or solutions by tomorrow’s leaders, future consumers, and future employees

DELIVERY:

Case methodology is proven to increase student engagement, build critical thinking, strengthen comprehension, and accelerate academic performance. Using integrated learning through dynamic case challenges co-designed by business partners, catalyzes student collaboration with peers, provides exposure to industries, and builds skill sets.

GOAL – EXPERIENCED & EMPOWERED STUDENTS:

Upon graduation, 3DE students can choose a post-secondary path that best suits their passions and career plan. 3DE students will have been exposed to a variety of industries and businesses, building a future talent pipeline for our workforce. Each 3DE student will have also experienced 16 real-world case challenges and a senior capstone project.  National and local business partnerships, with organizations such as Arby’s, Truist, UPS, Delta Airlines, Deloitte, and Home Depot, provide case challenges geared towards equipping young people with the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities.

3DE 2021 FLORIDA RESULTS

  • 2,108 students across 7 schools
  • 500+ business professionals engaged
  • 1% fewer cases of absenteeism
  • 9% outperformance on state assessments
  • 7% teacher buy-in & engagement

For More Information, Contact:
Adrinia Woods, Chief Revenue Officer
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7100 x131 or [email protected]

JA & Broward County Public Schools Partner to Launch 3DE Schools
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SFBW September 2022: The Beacon

SFBW September 2022: The Beacon

HOW JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF SOUTH FLORIDA LIT UP THE LIFE AND DREAMS OF A STRANAHAN HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

South Florida Business & Wealth
September 2022
By Drew Limsky

Junior Achievement gave 17-year-old Jayden Bonhomme something that school could not. And that’s the point. This is a story of burgeoning self-esteem,validation, and an epiphany that his varied interests could lead to a viable career path.

Through its Youth Employment program, which is part of JA Career Bound, the organization helps teenagers prepare for the workforce. They learn interviewing skills, presentation skills, collaboration, conflict resolution, networking, how different companies in varied sectors function—in short, the real world.

“Research says that students graduate from high school knowing only about five to eight jobs,” says Laurie Sallarulo, president and CEO of JA of South Florida. The program serves to remedy that. For Bonhomme, JA—and Career Bound, in particular—made him envision a future as a health care administrator. “I became acquainted with Junior Achievement in high school during my freshman year,” Bonhomme recalls. “I remember everyone was getting dressed up for mock interviews, and I thought, I want to be a part of that.” The first time Bonhomme walked into JA’s Town Square, for a field trip during his sophomore year, he noted the breadth of the organization’s reach—various colleges, Broward Health, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, the FBI and the military were all represented.

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SFBW September 2022: The Beacon
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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

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