All posts tagged: City Furniture

Uncork the Magic

Uncork the Magic

Junior Achievement is thrilled to announce the return of its ultimate epicurean experience, JA World Uncorked

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Broward County, FL — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is thrilled to announce the return of the ultimate epicurean experience, JA World Uncorked, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Hosted by JA’s Circle of Wise Women and sponsored by CITY Furniture, presented by Breakthru Beverage Florida, and amped up by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, this food and wine  extravaganza is set to captivate over 700 guests within JA World Huizenga Center at the Lilian S. Wells Pavilion.

JA World Uncorked beckons food and spirits aficionados to indulge in an indoor festival that promises delectable bites and luscious desserts from South Florida’s leading culinary creators. Delight your senses with an expansive array of premier wines, champagne, spirits and craft beers.

Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida, exclaimed, “JA World Uncorked transcends the joy of wine and food; it embodies our mission to empower young minds. Each facet of this experience is crafted to offer every attendee a taste of our commitment to shaping a brighter future through education and empowerment.”

General admission tickets, priced at $250, are available at JASouthFlorida.org/Uncorked, offering attendees an unlimited supply of delights, beverages, live music, dance and the chance to win enticing raffle prizes.

Now in its 13th year, JA World Uncorked continues to raise funds for Junior Achievement’s educational initiatives. These programs empower over 80,000 K-12 students annually in Broward and south Palm Beach counties, teaching invaluable lessons in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness.

JA World Uncorked owes its success to the generous support of sponsors, including CITY Furniture (Title Sponsor), Breakthru Beverage Florida (Presenting Sponsor), Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and a host of other esteemed partners. Thank you, Florescue Family Foundation, Moss Foundation, The James & Sandra Mantey Family Foundation, The Gussack Family – Exotech Inc., Comcast, Gray Robinson Attorneys at Law, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, AME Solutions, Greater Good Tech, Transworld Business Advisors, Florida Power & Light, Fiserv, Island TV, Centuric, CGC Group, Fran & Peter Woolf, Dooshers, Bank of America, CrewFacilities.com, Deutsche Bank Wealth Management, Merrill Lynch, Miller Construction Company, RCC Associates, Seacor Island Lines and SJF Law Group.

For more information, including exciting sponsorship opportunities, kindly contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or (954) 979-7100.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 5,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 80,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Uncork the Magic
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JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast

JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast

Storefront Ribbon-Cutting and Community Impact Honoree Celebration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Broward County, FL — On October 24, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) will host its annual Community Impact Breakfast to honor JA partners, trailblazing leaders and unveil new and refreshed storefronts in JA World’s simulated cities — JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. Every year more than 80,000 local students participate in experiential classroom lessons and JA World simulations, learning financial literacy, entrepreneurship and workplace readiness so they can be prepared for the future.

This event is an opportunity for local leaders in business, education and philanthropy to network and celebrate the impact JA and its partners are having on the lives of our youth.  JA is honored to recognize community leaders and organizations dedicated to empowering and supporting youth through workforce development. The 2023 Impact Honorees are:

  • Stefano Selorio, Carevocacy – Distinguished Alumni Award
  • Michael Fischler – JA Board Impact Leader
  • Broward County – Government Partner
  • Broward Sheriff’s Office – Community Partner
  • TD Bank – Corporate Partner

We are pleased to announce Dr. Peter Licata, newly appointed Broward County Public Schools Superintendent, will be the keynote speaker to kick off the 2023-2024 school year partnership.

“Junior Achievement of South Florida is committed to helping our children find their passion and prepare to achieve their career goals,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “JA World is a unique asset in our community that provides an opportunity for students to connect academics and the real world of work. We’re so proud to welcome our new storefront partners, who are providing memorable opportunities for students to explore career pathways and learn valuable skills that will serve them as they enter the workforce.”

The storefronts, which are sponsored by local businesses, serve as fun, experiential learning experiences as our students begin to inform perceptions about brands of choice, career pathways and household/business financial management. Thanks to a partnership with Broward County Public Schools, every fifth grader and eighth grader in Broward County participates in JA’s immersive programs in the JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion.

The 2023 list of new storefront partners to be recognized at this event includes: Aetna CVS Health, Amazon, Broward County, Broward County Public Schools, Children’s Services of Broward County, It’s A 10 Haircare, Cozen O’Connor, Farris Foundation, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, South Florida Symphony Orchestra and United Way of Broward. Refreshed storefront partners include CITY Furniture, JM Family Enterprises (JM Toyota) and Sea the World, which features various marine industry businesses.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at:

JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion
(1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066)
8:00 a.m.-8:45 a.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
8:15 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Networking Breakfast
9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Impact Awards Presentation

This is an INVITATION ONLY event. To inquire about sponsorships, please contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or call (954) 979-7124.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 5,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 80,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

JA Hosts Community Impact Breakfast
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Two Dynamic Women Will Be Recognized At Rosé Soirée

Two Dynamic Women Will Be Recognized At Rosé Soirée

JA Event Honors Woman of Wisdom Maureen Canada and Spark Award Recipient Ana Rodriguez

For Immediate Release 

BROWARD COUNTY, FL — For 50 years, Maureen Canada and her family ran the Lighthouse Point Marina and Nauti Dawg Marina and Café in Lighthouse Point. This year, her decades of service to the community, and her passion for philanthropy, will be recognized by Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) when the organization’s JA Circle of Wise Women (CWW) honor Canada with the Woman of Wisdom Award at the 2023 Rosé Soirée.

Rosé Soirée, featuring Title Sponsor CITY Furniture and presented by TD Bank, is an annual fundraising event for Junior Achievement of South Florida that gathers empowered women, business entrepreneurs and leaders in philanthropy to mingle over appetizers and sip Rosé while support JA’s financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness programs. This festive affair is hosted by the CWW, a women’s philanthropic group that believes JA programs are a springboard to show today’s youth their potential for success.

The CWW was founded in May of 2009 at the home of Janet Davis with only 10 original members. Now, the CWW boasts a membership of more than 180 women. Since its inception, the group has raised more than $5 million for Junior Achievement of South Florida.

Rosé Soirée is a fun opportunity for the CWW to pin new members of the group, present scholarships to highly deserving high school girls and honor two women with special awards.

The first award, the Woman of Wisdom Award, will go to Canada who has been an active member of the CWW and a recognized business leader in Broward County. She will share her personal formula for success as a profitable family business leader and inspire event attendees with her passion for social advocacy.

The second award, the Spark Award, will be given to Ana Rodriguez, Florida Power & Light Community Relations Specialist. Rodriguez is the first ever to be recognized with this new award, which recognizes an exceptional female trailblazer. Rodriguez has been a mentor in JA’s Girls Rule program, Girls Rule host committee member since its inception and is an active volunteer in JA’s Career Bound and Pre-Apprentice Programs. She serves on the board of directors at Henderson Behavioral Health and Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach.

Last year, Rosé Soirée raised $110,000 for JA programs. Thanks to this year’s sponsors Happy Pineapple Charity Fund, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Advanced Roofing, Walter Duke + Partners, Florida Power & Light, Synovus, Resolve Marine Group, Rick Case Automotive Group, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, Lawless, Edwards & Warren Wealth Management, Broward Health, Bergeron Family of Companies, Peter & Fran Woolf, Florescue Family Foundation, The Pretty Nomad, Ed Morse, American Global, Intact Insurance, Tripp Scott, Vital Title & Escrow, Hudson Family Foundation, Halmos Holdings, Intentions Pilates & Wellness Spa, Miller Construction Company, RoofConnect, Transworld Business Advisors, CrewFacilities.com, Maureen Rotella Compass, Toothaker.org, RVG & Company CPA’s, Holy Cross Health, Lank Oil Company, Seacoast Bank, Urban Street Development, American National Bank and numerous partners, this event promises to have a greater impact.

The 2023 Rosé Soirée will be held on September 14 from 4:30 to 7 pm at the former Neiman Marcus at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale (2442 E Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304). To purchase a ticket, please visit JASouthFlorida.org/RoseSoiree. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please reach out to Diana Metcalf by email at [email protected] or by phone at (954) 979-7120.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of over 5,000 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 74,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:

Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Two Dynamic Women Will Be Recognized At Rosé Soirée
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Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement

Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement

Florida Lottery Supports Career Bound Program and Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event

For Immediate Release

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (June 1, 2023) — For the second consecutive year, Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is grateful to the Florida Lottery for recently supporting its Career Bound program, graduation celebration and the 2023 Books, Bucks and Backpacks outreach event.

Over the course of the 2022-2023 school year, over 200 high school students from Broward County Public Schools participated in Career Bound, which is designed to expose and prepare students for workplace success. Students experience industries firsthand, develop work skills through business case challenges and have the opportunity for summer employment.

The Career Bound staff recently celebrated the program completion achievements of 206 students (93%), which included a retreat and graduation  that showcased case challenge demonstrations, guest speakers and certificate presentations. In addition to Florida Lottery, this program is also supported by the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Broward County Public Schools, Community Foundation of Broward and various South Florida businesses and individual donors/mentors who play an active role in the student training, employment coaching and college scholarship elements of the program.

On May 20th, JA joined forces with Broward Schools, other education partners, local business and healthcare providers for the Books, Bucks & Backpacks event, presented by CITY Furniture. Over 700 Broward County students and their families attended. Thanks to supporters, like the Florida Lottery, JA provided supplies to help them make the most of their summer break, including healthcare resources, summer safety tips, academic retention materials, financial literacy tools, backpacks and school supplies.

“Junior Achievement is proud of its newly developed partnership with the Florida Lottery, which continues to be a dedicated partner to Florida’s schools and students by making education its biggest winner!  We are thankful for their commitment to JA’s mission of empowering youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy and lead our community,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO.

About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) inspires and prepares youth to succeed in a global economy. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 73,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit https://www.jasouthflorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About The Florida Lottery

The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $44 billion to enhance education and sending more than 950,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue back into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,000 Lottery retailers and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $85.8 billion in prizes and made more than 3,566 people millionaires. For more information, please visit www.flalottery.com.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing. Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110
[email protected]

Florida Lottery Continues Partnership With Junior Achievement
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JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20

JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20

The Book, Bucks & Backpacks initiative helps launch families into a successful
summer break by providing reading, financial and health literacy
resources to families in Broward County.

BROWARD COUNTY, FL — On Saturday, May 20, from 10 am to 1 pm, Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) will partner with local educational organizations, healthcare providers and businesses to host its annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks event, presented by CITY Furniture, at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066). Roughly 600 students and their families, totaling 1200 people, from area middle and high schools have been selected, based on need, to attend.

The event is a festive day for these registered families to come enjoy games, educational booths and giveaways. Every family is provided supplies to help them make the most of their summer breaks, including healthcare resources, academic retention materials, financial literacy tools, backpacks and school supplies.

This event promotes summer health and wellness, prevents the summer slide and teaches children the value of savings and money.

“It’s proven that over 60% of all summer-related injuries occur among children ages 2-11. Also on average, students lose 17-34% of the prior year’s learning gains,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “Summer can be an important time to keep students on track and give them momentum for the next school year. This event helps set families up for success.”

Thank you to the 2023 partners: Broward County Public Schools, Bright Futures Scholarships (funded by the Florida Lottery), the Early Leaning Coalition of Broward County, Molina Healthcare, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, CrewFacilities.com, Rick Case Automotive Group, BrightStar Credit Union, We Florida Financial, Bluegreen Vacations, ABC Florida East Coast Chapter, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Children’s Services of Broward County, City of Coconut Creek, City of Fort Lauderdale, Community Care Plan, Florida KidsCare, MCNA Dental, Sea the World, Truly Nolen, Universal Property and Casualty Insurance, Urban League of Broward County

For more information, visit https://www.JASouthFlorida.org/BooksBucksBackpacks.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

Local media is invited to attend this event.
To arrange for press coverage or for media inquiries, please contact:

Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

JA Hosts Annual Books, Bucks & Backpacks Event May 20
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JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9

JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9

200 Broward County high school girls will participate in an empowering program and event, including inspiring speakers and mentors, a girls business fashion show and celebratory luncheon.

COCONUT CREEK, FL — The Girls Rule Initiative at Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) connects local high school girls with successful women in our community. Through mentorship,, girls are encouraged to ignite their passion, embrace their dreams and see by example, that they can be anything they want. On March 9th, JA will host its annual Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower program and event for 200 local high school girls. Girls will travel to JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33066) to participate in mentoring workshops, hear from nationally acclaimed motivational speakers, model business outfits which they get to keep and attend a celebratory lunch. The workshops will take place between 8:30-11:30am, with the celebration luncheon immediately following from 11:30am to 2:30pm.

“The Girls Rule event is an impactful way for the next generation of young women to connect with and learn from inspiring role models and female trailblazers. Hearing their stories and journeys to success will fill these young women with hope for a great future.” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida.
Workshops will include impactful discussions on topics that influence young women, like self-care, discovering your passion, finding a meaningful career, goal setting, the value of mentors, how to stand out from the pack and the power of resiliency.

This year’s luncheon will feature keynote speaker Rachel McKenzie, an inspiring entrepreneur and wife of former Super Bowl champion Michael Terrance McKenzie. Rachel has been on a longtime mission to help entrepreneurs build and grow profitable businesses. Trained as a business builder, she has a unique 20-year background in communication, leadership, strategic planning and project management on multi-million dollar development projects.

Dr. Yvette Maureen—a 5-time author, TEDx speaker and entrepreneur—will also speak at the event. Dr. Yvette is universally characterized as an authority on business marketing strategies, total-body wellness and success. As one of today’s highly sought-after business experts, she has documented and shared principles and insight on peak performance with thousands of followers around the globe. As a researcher and professor, Dr. Yvette encourages individuals to look at the fundamental concepts of business to extract the keys that underlie all accomplishments.

Guests at the event will also delight in a “Dress for Success” runway fashion show featuring students from Boyd H. Anderson, Dillard, Plantation and Stranahan high schools who will model modern business fashions appropriate for their desired careers. For each $300 donated at the event, a young lady will learn how to dress professionally within the workplace with the latest fashion trends. The girls will keep the attire as a welcomed addition to their professional wardrobe. The fashion show is sponsored by the U.S. Polo Association, the non-profit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States and one of the oldest sports’ governing bodies.

The day ends with a champagne toast and professional networking. For more information, visit JASouthFlorida.org/GirlsRule.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

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JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9
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Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence

Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence

Junior Achievement of South Florida hosts 33rd Annual JA Business Hall of Fame Awards

COCONUT CREEK, FL — On April 21, Junior Achievement of South Florida will host its 33rd annual JA Business Hall of Fame Awards Dinner, presented by American Express. This highly anticipated celebration recognizes outstanding leaders who have shown bold vision, commitment to excellence, courageous leadership and community responsibility. Masters of Ceremony Steve Hudson and Andy Cagnetta will guide us through the cocktail-attire event which will take place at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

This year, we will induct three extraordinary leaders into the JA Business Hall of Fame; Carolyn Aronson, Founder of It’s a 10 Haircare; Gary Press, CEO of Fortress Legal Plan, CEO of Alternative Revenue Solution and former CEO of Lifestyles Magazines; and Gregory Haile, President of Broward College. They will join a prestigious group of over 120 Laureates.

JA will honor its first Youth Laureates, recognizing exceptional young innovators. Setting the bar high with this first honor are twin sisters, Hadley and Delaney Robertson, who launched BraceTrack, an app that helps people like them, living with scoliosis.

JA will also continue to celebrate the legacies of Wayne and Marti Huizenga and Melissa Aiello. The Huizenga Lifetime Legacy Award, named in 2016 in honor of two of our most selfless community advocates and philanthropists, will be presented to Mike and Alice Jackson. The Jacksons, like the Huizengas, have created lasting change and left a deep legacy on our community.

The Melissa Aiello Character Award will be given to Allison and Andrew Cagnetta. This award was created in 2015 in honor of the late Melissa Aiello, past President & CEO & President of Junior Achievement of South Florida, who lived her life dedicated to service, integrity and honor. The Cagnettas live and serve with integrity and honor and possess a strong commitment to giving back.

“We are so thankful for these incredible leaders who have supported our mission and the greater community,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “These leaders are role models to nearly 70,000 students who participate in JA’s innovative entrepreneurship, financial literacy and career readiness programs. This event gathers our community’s top leaders and philanthropists to pay tribute to the outstanding accomplishments of the honorees,” added JA Board Chair and CEO of CITY Furniture, Andrew Koenig.

This event is JA’s biggest fundraising event of the year, supporting programs that prepare our young people for successful lives and careers. We’d like to thank our 2023 top sponsors, including American Express, Delta Air Lines, Rick Case Automotive Group, CITY Furniture, Leo Goodwin Foundation, Mike and Alice Jackson, TD Bank, Transworld Business Advisors, Broward College, BBX Capital, Celebrity Cruises, Fifth Third Bank, Ron & Rachel Antevy (Antevy Capital), Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, American National Bank, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Karen & Scott Rassler and Republic Services.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and digital advertising, contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or by calling (954) 979-7124. Tickets can also be purchased online at JASouthFlorida.org/BusinessHallofFame.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
Celebrating Leaders Committed to Innovation and Excellence
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Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023

Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023

JA World Uncorked 2023

By Rachel Galvin
Let’s Talk Magazine

Exotic, glamorous, risque, festive, exciting… These are all words that could be used to describe Moulin Rouge. Perhaps, that is why the enticing concept was used as a theme for the latest JA World Uncorked, held on January 28 at the JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, 1130 Coconut Creek Blvd. in Coconut Creek. Hosted by the Circle of Wise Women, this yearly event benefits Junior Achievement of South Florida.

The theme wasn’t the only thing they changed this year. The event continues to improve, and this year, they brought in more money than ever before – a historic $345,000 and more than 700 guests!

Also this year, the food options seemed more diverse than ever, and delicious, everything from a light and airy panna cotta to a soul-satisfying smoky pulled pork. Guests could start with trying a Caesars salad and tortilla soup and maybe grab some of Yot’s famous fish dip and move on to items like sliders, prime rib, pasta, sashimi and countless other delectable options from local restaurants, and then finish with desserts like cookies, cake, cream puffs, tarts or Italian Ice.

The spirits on hand were just as plentiful and varied. Guests could choose a refreshing and lemony light KLEO-Patra, a mixture of the Greek spirit KLEOS, lemon juice, simple syrup and basil, or opt for a taste of a creamy Pennyslvania Dutch Salted Caramel drink. They could sip their favorite wines, grab a gelatin shot, choose a craft beer from Funky Budha, enjoy Canyon’s prickly pear margarita and more. There was even an espresso martini cart, by Gray Robinson, P.A, where the purveyor got on the bicycle attached and pedaled to grind his own coffee! Yvette and Bob Birdsong sponsored a welcome cocktail for everyone… the Capital Grill Stoli Doli. The variety of wine, spirits, beer and seltzers kept guests happy all night long and the culinary options kept them smiling. DJs played music throughout while guests roamed.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE
Let’s Talk Magazine: JA World Uncorked 2023
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Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership

Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership

Andrew Koenig Named Board Chair

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (September 1, 2022) — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) announces Andrew Koenig, CEO of CITY Furniture, as its new Board Chair to serve a two-year term. Mr. Koenig will continue the momentum built under the leadership of Tim Rubin, Director of Client Services at Kaufman Rossin, who served as Chair for three years.

“I am grateful for Tim’s support and commitment during a challenging time for nonprofits. Under his leadership, the board was dedicated to helping the organization stay financially healthy. Working with the Governance Committee, Tim also brought a focus on diversity, ensuring the board was represented across all groups, demographics, industries and expertise,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “I am excited about the future and to continue our work with Andrew Koenig at the helm. Andrew is a passionate visionary who will bring inspiring leadership to the board.”

CITY Furniture has been a company dedicated to improving the community for many years. Continuing the family tradition started by his uncle, dad and mom, under Andrew’s leadership as CEO, the company has committed to giving back 5% of its annual profits across five pillars: home, health, service, diversity and education. Andrew is personally committed to serving and giving his time to some of the organizations CITY supports, including JA.

“As a father, I understand how important it is for our children to have the skills and experiences they need to be successful adults and as a business leader, I realize the importance of building a future pipeline of employees. I love that through Junior Achievement all children have access to this real-world education that helps prepare them for work and life. They need us today and we will need them tomorrow,” said Andrew Koenig.

CITY Furniture has been involved with Junior Achievement of South Florida since the opening of JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion 14 years ago. CITY Furniture is a JA Finance Park storefront partner, impacting over 20,000 8th graders each year with career exploration and personal finance education. CITY also donates money raised through their “Test Rest” campaign, sponsors JA events and hires JA interns through the Youth Employment program. Their financial support and involvement as volunteers set a great example for other companies.

JA is also pleased to share the appointment of Executive Committee Members Lisa Anderson, Jeni Chokron, Monique Corker, Kathy Foster, David Greenberg, Brenda Horner, Geoffrey Horst, Tom Loffredo, Lois Marino, Joel Mayersohn, Stuart Morris, Monica Navarro, Steve Nudelberg, John Ray III, Tim Rubin, Franki Lupo Schmidt, Greg Thompson and Mark Walter.

JA’s Board of Directors is composed of 70 business, education and community leaders that bring a strong and balanced blend of skills, experiences and perspectives to the organization. “I am proud to lead with such a diverse, forward-thinking, committed group of board members who are passionate advocates for JA’s vision to help train the next generation of business leaders, employees, employers and consumers. Together, we will continue to increase awareness of JA’s work and partner with the Broward County School District to deepen the impact for each student,” said Andrew Koenig.

Learn more about the Board of Directors at JASouthFlorida.org/Board-of-Directors.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida
Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

Junior Achievement Announces New Board Leadership
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MacKenzie Scott Gives $38.8 Million to Junior Achievement USA

MacKenzie Scott Gives $38.8 Million to Junior Achievement USA

Junior Achievement of South Florida Receives $1.9 Million

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (August 22, 2022) — Through her philanthropic giving, MacKenzie Scott continues to change lives and strengthen nonprofit organizations. She recently donated $38.8 million to Junior Achievement USA, making it the largest single gift in the organization’s 103-year history.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is one of 26 areas to be selected by Scott, receiving $1.9 million. This generous contribution will help to sustain the critical work of preparing every young person to navigate their future, drive our economy and lead our communities. This gift will serve as a lead gift to JA’s $15 million comprehensive campaign, “Unlock the Potential of Tomorrow”, helping JA secure its community impact well into the future.

“The lack of skilled talent in the pipeline is one of the top concerns of employers today. To successfully compete and sustain our local economy, we must develop talent that is educated and trained to handle the demand of skilled and technical jobs. The only way to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified talent in the future is to develop the mindset and skillset of every child,” said President & CEO Laurie Sallarulo.

Junior Achievement of South Florida’s momentum has been extraordinary – reaching more than 69,000 students a year during the 2021 school year. “It’s not just about the number of students served, it’s about the depth of the impact JA programs have on students,” said Sallarulo. Through the unique partnership with Broward County Public Schools, JA compliments academics with real-world education in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship to ensure that all children are ready and able to succeed in tomorrow’s world. “There is still much work to be done, and this gift will allow us to broaden our reach, deepen our impact and continue to innovate,” Sallarulo added.

Andrew Koenig, JA Board Chair and CEO of CITY Furniture shares, “As a business headquartered in Broward County, we have invested heavily in our future workforce by partnering with JA. This will require an all-hands-on-deck approach, involving schools, parents, businesses, government, funders and philanthropists. This contribution from MacKenzie Scott is a testimony to the importance of our work and the need for us to invest in workforce and financial literacy education. I encourage you to join our mission.”

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About “Unlock the Potential of Tomorrow” Comprehensive Campaign
Junior Achievement of South Florida is committed to unlocking the true potential of every child, regardless of their background and circumstances. This 5-year, $15 million campaign is an opportunity for everyone to ensure every child, today and in the future, can learn to be resourceful, innovative, collaborative and resilient. This will give them a chance to lead a successful and prosperous life and will also secure the future of our community and economy.

“Unlock the Potential of Tomorrow” will help sustain JA’s critical mission and help ensure that every child receives the resources, training, education and experiences they will need to face the challenges of succeeding in a complex and unpredictable world. Almost 70% of the students JA serves are from low-income families and will likely not have the opportunity to learn the skills that will allow them to be self-sufficient through employment or entrepreneurship and contribute to the future of our local economy. There are four specific fund opportunities: Capital Investments, Program Innovation Expansion and Scholarships and Endowments. Contact Adrinia Woods, Chief Revenue Officer, at [email protected] or (954) 979-7100.

About Junior Achievement of South Florida
Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

MacKenzie Scott Gives $38.8 Million to Junior Achievement USA
read more