Junior Achievement of the Desert Southwest

Junior Achievement’s mission is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed. The inspiration piece comes from community volunteers who not only deliver our lessons, but share their experience. In the process, these volunteers serve as role models helping to positively impact young people’s perceptions about the importance of education, as well as critical life skills. Preparation involves our proven lessons that promote financial capability, work and career readiness, and business ownership. 

JA’s unique approach allows volunteers from the community to deliver our curriculum while sharing their experiences with students. Embodying the heart of JA, our more than 500 volunteers help reach over 11,000 local students with lessons on career exploration, workforce readiness, leadership development, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Volunteers transform the key concepts of our lessons into a message that inspires and empowers students to believe in themselves, showing them they can make a difference in the world. JA staff provides curriculum and training, and volunteers are empowered to present at local schools and community youth groups.