Junior Achievement of the Heartland seeks volunteers to engage K-12 students in learning essential skills for the workplace and beyond. The organization is looking for community members, parents, retired educators, corporate partners, and others to step into classrooms and deliver JA lessons in Clinton and Whiteside Counties.
 
Junior Achievement's mission is centered on inspiring and preparing young people for success. This inspiration is driven by dedicated community volunteers who not only teach JA lessons but also share their own experiences. By doing so, they serve as role models, shaping students' views on the value of education and essential life skills.
 
"Junior Achievement is facing an immediate and crucial need for volunteers to support classrooms," Dougal Nelson, President & CEO of JA stresses. "We are committed to meeting the expectations of our schools and students. Without these JA learning opportunities, many students may miss out on essential financial literacy and career readiness skills critical for their future success."
 
Volunteers receive hands-on training to ensure they are fully prepared to deliver the curriculum effectively. They receive guidebooks and all necessary materials to facilitate successful classroom activities.
“I really appreciate the support that JA gives my students in my classroom. Hearing the message about being a productive member in our community and working hard toward your goals is so important—for students to hear this from a community member and not just from me as their teacher is really powerful!” – Danielle H., Educator
 
In elementary settings, JA consists of five 45-minute sessions, while middle to high school programs typically span six to seven sessions, tailored to specific learning experiences.