Each year, hundreds of Junior Achievement programs across Canada are brought to local schools to teach kids about financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness.
And despite the lockdowns and closures over the past two years, Junior Achievement (JA) was able to reach over 250 kids in the Midland, Penetanguishene, Orillia and Coldwater areas, according to Rebecca Ness, area coordinator for Junior Achievement northern and eastern Ontario.
“Normally delivered as a one day in-class program, JA was successful in creating a virtual classroom and delivering the programs online thanks to local volunteers and sponsors,” Ness said.
“The intent is to spark an interest in kids to learn about money so that they are more educated and responsible adults.”
JA programs are made possible by local sponsors, requested by teachers and delivered by volunteers from the financial or business sectors.
“They are fun and interactive, and depending on the program, teach kids how credit cards work, how to make a budget, different investing and savings strategies, how to match interests and passions to possible career paths, what employers look for, and so many more essential money matters," Ness said.
She credits local sponsors for ensuring the program’s continued success. They include: LabX Media, the Huronia Foundation Community and the Orillia Rotary Club as well as corporate sponsorships from TD, CIBC and HSBC.
Local volunteers who gave their time during the past school year to help deliver programs were: Jessica Wicks (CIBC at time of program, now ), Karen George Lancaster (BMO), Rebecca Ness (Century 21 Millennium Inc), Peggy Onlock (retired CIBC), Sarah Jane Vandenberg (The Career Growth Co), Adam Burton (Financial Consultant, IPC Securities) and Erika Cowen (F5).
And as a new school year approaches, Ness said how programs will be delivered in 2022-23 still needs to be determined.
“However, whether the online format continues for a bit longer or in-person programs are allowed to resume, the content is something our kids are reaping the benefits from,” she said.
Anyone interested in volunteering or sponsoring a program this fall in the area or teachers who would like a board approved program for their class, can click here. please visit https://ww.ja-neo.org.
