In today's economy, the competition for funding is unusually stiff. Donors want to know that each of their dollars will make a difference in someone's life, and maybe even help create a better future. Junior Achievement one of the best investments you can make to change kids' lives now, and build a better world for the adults they will soon become.

       Junior Achievement investors like you benefited approximately 7,800 young people in the Michiana area last school year, by bringing the real world to students and opening their minds to their potential. As Mark Eagan, former Executive Director of the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce, so succinctly stated, "Junior Achievement is one method by which a community can foster an entrepreneurial culture and thereby ensure a vibrant local economy in the future."

       Your investment is one of the three keys that allow us to continue as a leader in teaching economics and financial literacy in our communities:

• VOLUNTEERS: During the 2009/2010 school year, 273 consultants from area businesses, agencies, and organizations presented 345 JA programs in Michiana classrooms. Many Multi-Achievers consulted for two or more classes, and up to 75% of our Consultants come back year after year. Many of our staunch financial supporters are also JA consultants themselves and/or encourage their employees to volunteer.

• BLACKBOARD TIME: Junior Achievement is recognized as one of the leading organizations in meeting the requirements for teaching economics and financial literacy in schools:

  • JA bridges the gap of what students are learning in school and how it can be applied in the real world, reinforces the value of a good education, and gives students the self-confidence to pursue their dreams.

  • In addition, JA's "Excellence through Ethics" supplemental program, available for download through the Junior Achievement website, provides age-appropriate training in ethical decision-making to help students learn how to make ethical decisions in school and eventually in the workforce. (Click here for JA's supplemental Excellence Through Ethics programs)

• MONEY: JA is funded primarily through businesses, individuals, service clubs, foundations, and special events, with the proceeds being used for our educational materials, recruiting and training our volunteers, and supporting delivery of the program to our classrooms. Without these, our program cannot continue.

       That's where you come in. We can only deliver the classes that we have the financial resources to sustain. Please help us meet the challenges of ensuring a successful economic future by calling us at (269) 983-7579 or emailing info@michianaja.org and pledging your financial support!

Junior Achievement uses hands-on experiences to help young people understand the economics of life. In partnership with business and educators, JA brings the real world to students, opening their minds to their potential.

       Junior Achievement is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, to which contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.