My Nonprofit Reviews
Jon T.
Review for Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, Inc., Springfield, MA, USA
I began volunteering with JA in 2007 at a Springfield High School. I was shocked at how many lacked such basic understanding that credit cards charge interest (or even had to be paid back!) I also volunteered at a fundraising event. Fast-forward to 2012, I've taught 14 different classes in 5 different high schools and 2 elementary schools, and wish I had time to do more. I've been told that as a school volunteer, if you reach one child, you've accomplished the mission. Judging by reactions in classroom after classroom, Junior Achievement reaches many more children. My daughter in High School taught a JA program for second graders (by herself no less!) and is eager to do more. Even at 15, she recognizes the invaluable role that Junior Achievement can play in these kids lives, and is currently planning a school-wide volunteering program at her High School to get other students to go out and become "High School Heroes" who teach these skills to elementary school kids.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I've seen more confidence in students, not only in themselves, but in their futures. One high school student stands out. He was "too cool" to really invest in a classroom program to teach about managing a business. Within a couple weeks he was the most attentive - but the real result came in following year, when he heard I was coming to teach another class and came in to help. He went from counting down the minutes until he could go home to someone planning on starting his own business.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
find the funds so Junior Achievement could become part of EVERY SINGLE student's school experience.
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization beyond what is required of board members?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
How did you learn about this organization?
My company in 2007 put out a call for classroom volunteers. My decision to give it a try is among the most rewarding of my life.
What is this organization's top short-term priority?
Increasing funding so it can expand the programs to more communities and students.
What is its top priority in the long run?
Offering more and richer programs to students, anytime a school will allow us to come in.
