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2025 Future Bound by Junior Achievement
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Entrepreneurship
From June 8–12, the brightest young minds in entrepreneurship gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, for the inaugural Future BoundTM by Junior Achievement. This dynamic event brought together high school students from across the United States to showcase their innovative projects, demonstrate business acumen, and compete for national recognition for their outstanding achievements. A true celebration of...
Educator Spotlight: Katie Hess
By Aislinn Klosterman
Community Involvement
In this spotlight, we get to know Katie Hess, a passionate school counselor at Maysville Elementary who’s making a big impact in her students’ lives. From guiding them through life’s challenges to introducing them to real-world career experiences through JA BizTown, Katie is helping young learners build confidence and see what’s possible. Read on to learn what drives her, why she believes in...
Top 5 Skills Every Young Entrepreneur Should Build Now
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Entrepreneurship
Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or just want to think more like a boss, building the right skill set is key. From navigating challenges to managing money, the most successful entrepreneurs are constantly learning, adapting, and...
Building a Strong Financial Foundation: Equipping Teens for a Brighter Tomorrow
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Financial Literacy
In honor of Financial Literacy Month, we explore the challenges teens face in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world and emphasize the vital role financial education plays in shaping a more secure and promising...
Volunteer Spotlight: James "Rich" Lawrence
By Aislinn Klosterman
Corporate Responsibility
James "Rich" Lawrence is a dedicated JA volunteer whose passion for financial literacy, mentorship, and community impact has empowered both students and volunteers...
JA BizTown in Newark is Officially Open!
By Aislinn Klosterman
Work Readiness
A BizTown presented by Meta in Newark is officially OPEN! 🚀 Thanks to Meta's and our partners' incredible support, students in and around Licking County now have a place to step into real-world careers, run businesses, and build their...
Educator Spotlight: Elizabeth Newell
By Aislinn Klosterman
Community Involvement
This year, we’re celebrating our amazing local educators who we work with every day! Meet the incredible Elizabeth Newell, who has dedicated 22 years to shaping young minds! She’s been bringing her 5th graders to JA BizTown since 2010, creating lasting memories and real-world learning experiences that students cherish for...
Teens Want Financial Literacy Education, But Many Schools Don’t Offer It
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Financial Literacy
While the demand for financial literacy education is high among teens, the availability of such courses is disappointingly low. Junior Achievement continues to bridge this gap by offering comprehensive programs that equip students with essential life...
Reawakening the American Dream: Homeownership for Generation Z
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Financial Literacy
For over a century, owning a home has been synonymous with the American Dream. Since the 1890s, when homebuilders first linked homeownership with the promise of prosperity, generations of Americans have aspired to build wealth and create legacies through owning their own homes. However, recent trends reveal significant challenges facing young adults in achieving this...
Grad Nation: If Not College, Then What?
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Work Readiness
For decades, earning a four-year college degree has been seen as the key to upward mobility. However, rising college costs and increasing student debt are causing many to question the value of a college...