All posts tagged: Laurie Sallarulo

Entrepreneur Donates More Than 18,000 Beauty Products

Entrepreneur Donates More Than 18,000 Beauty Products

The Entrepreneur Behind SinglesSwag, Jonathan Beskin, Donates More Than 18,000 Beauty Products to Junior Achievement of South Florida

For Immediate Release 

BROWARD COUNTY, FL — Jonathan Beskin — the CEO and founder of SinglesSwag and author of “The Least Likely Millionaire” — recently donated more than 18,000 beauty and fashion products to Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA). The donation included jewelry, skin care products, fashion accessories and cosmetics, which will be distributed at upcoming JA signature events, as a “thank you” to dedicated JA volunteers and to program students.

JA serves more than 74,000 students annually by teaching financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness development. Some of JA’s programs — such as JA’s Career Bound Program, Pre-Apprenticeship Program and Summer Internship Program — help prepare young adults for the professional workforce, which requires students to be well dressed and presentable to potential employers. Beskin’s donations will be a welcomed surprise for JA’s programs.

“JA’s mission is to bridge the gap between school and the workforce by preparing students for the realities of the world-at-large. Jonathan’s donations will help students feel confident, as they pursue the path toward adulthood,” said JA CEO and President Laurie Sallarulo. “We are grateful to entrepreneurs and philanthropists like Jonathan who use their resources to help our youth.”

Beskin, who publicly shares about his early struggles with mental health before becoming a millionaire, is a fantastic example of an underdog embracing adversity to become a recognized success. His first company, a women’s lifestyle subscription box, went from a pre-revenue idea launched with just $2,000 of his own savings, to earning more than $60 million in revenue in under five years. Now, Beskin’s company SinglesSwag and Paradise Delivered is ranked one of the Top 10 fastest growing companies in Florida by Inc. Magazine and has shipped more than 2 million boxes to more than 60 countries. His book “The Least Likely Millionaire” mentors readers to harness a healthy obsession, ignore the naysayers, and embrace the path-less-traveled.

“I hope to inspire young people who feel like they don’t fit the mold of a successful entrepreneur,” said Beskin. “You don’t need a Harvard MBA or a rich family, you just need a desire to change your life.”

Beskin’s message resonates with the mission of JA to inspire young people to go after their dreams.

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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

Entrepreneur Donates More Than 18,000 Beauty Products
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Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant

Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant

Funding Supports Financial Literacy and Career Readiness Programs for At-Risk Youth

 

For Immediate Release 

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (June 23, 2022) – The Junior Achievement Florida Foundation has announced today that it has received a $70,000 grant from State Farm. The state-wide initiative will support Junior Achievement learning experiences in eight localities throughout Florida, enabling thousands of young people to participate in the organization’s nationally recognized financial literacy and career readiness learning experiences.

“State Farm believes that financial literacy education is critical to building stronger and more resilient communities” said Jose Soto, State Farm Corporate Responsibility Analyst. “Part of our education funding is directed toward initiatives and programs that support K-12 financial literacy and pathways for college and career success. We are proud to support Junior Achievement financial literacy and career readiness programs across Florida.”

Each of the eight Florida-based Junior Achievement areas will use the support to advance learning experiences most needed in their region.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA), along with JA Space Coast and JA North Florida will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance introducing high school students to the interrelationship between today’s financial decisions and future financial freedom.

“Thanks to partners like State Farm, JA can provide students with opportunities to grow their confidence and resiliency, explore career possibilities, learn and practice financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills they will need to succeed in the workplace and life,” said Laurie Sallarulo, Junior Achievement of South Florida President & CEO.

JA Tampa Bay, which includes Hillsborough, Polk, Highlands and Sarasota Counties will use the support for:

  • JA BizTown, a capstone learning experience that introduces 5th graders to economic concepts, workplace skills, and personal and business finances. They act as employees and consumers, from paying bills to handling customer service, they experience what it is like to earn and work in a community.
  • JA Finance Park, another capstone learning experience that is a real-life simulation, where students enter the game of life and apply financial concepts to balance their personal budget and learn to make choices that support their future goals.
  • 3DE schools by Junior Achievement, the newest JA learning experience, teaches students in high school relevant business skills and core competencies through business case methodology.

JA Miami will use the support to:

  • Provide local elementary students with an interactive JA Day where they will explore the concepts of financial literacy and workforce readiness.

JA Palm Beaches will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance at area high schools where students are introduced to the interrelationship between today’s financial decisions and future financial freedom and JA Inspire Career Expo where students explore their skills and interests.

JA Central Florida will use the support to provide:

  • JA Finance Park Virtual Advanced to 12th graders in Orange and Osceola districts where students will build a foundation for making intelligent and informed lifelong personal finance decisions.

JA Southwest Florida will use the support to:

  • Provide JA Personal Finance, JA Economics for Success and JA Career Success

The JA Florida Foundation areas have worked with local State Farm representatives to build out an interactive Career Exploration booth for the JA Inspire Career Expo. This virtual platform provides students with the opportunity to explore over 100 business and education booths and listen to dynamic speakers. Live virtual interaction days are scheduled where students can ask volunteers industry related questions. Across the state over 25,000 students will participate.

All areas will offer volunteer opportunities for State Farm associates to participate either in person or virtually, the length and scope varies for each experience.

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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 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 JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About Junior Achievement Florida Foundation

Chartered in 2010, the JA Florida Foundation represents the nine Florida JA chapters joining forces to link to schools across the state of Florida. This collaboration has allowed us each to grow our impact on our area’s marginalized youth through statewide funding and support. Junior Achievement delivers K-12 programming for entrepreneurship, financial literacy and career readiness. For more information on the organization, visit www.juniorachievement.org/web/ja-floridafoundation.

About State Farm®

For 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been and continues to be to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its more than 19,400 agents and approximately 61,764 employees serve over 91 million policies and accounts – which includes auto, fire, life, health, commercial policies and financial services accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 42 on the 2022 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com. ​

For More Information, Contact:

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

Junior Achievement Benefits From $70,000 State Farm Grant
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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
Christopher@JASouthFlorida.org

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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Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens

Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens

April Celebrates Financial Literacy Month

This April we have been celebrating Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to creating awareness of effective money management skills and promoting this education among young people. When you consider that 47 percent of Federal Reserve survey participants said they couldn’t cover a $400 emergency without borrowing or selling something, and 64 percent of U.S. consumers are living paycheck-to-paycheck according to LendingClub Corp., we should be catapulted into action. Building a financially literate society is critical.

While certain groups—African Americans, Hispanics, lower-income people—have fewer financial resources, financial insecurity is an equal-opportunity issue that affects every demographic. Millions of adults, young and old, know what it’s like to be down to their last few dollars while waiting for a paycheck; what it’s like to go to the mailbox knowing there’ll be more bills they can’t pay; what it’s like to have credit cards maxed and borrow money to provide for their families.

These circumstances and others could be avoided with a basic understanding of personal finance. What if we could help young people avoid financial mistakes and prevent them from experiencing these hardships? What if we could prepare them for a future that includes buying a home,  saving for emergencies and building for retirement?

Recently, the Florida legislature passed a bill that requires high schoolers to take a financial literacy course to receive a diploma.

“Ensuring students have the skills to manage their finances will pay dividends for our state,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.

This is a major step toward preparing youth to make well-informed financial decisions, but we need more, and we need it earlier. If we believe financial literacy is a critical life skill, it must be included and supported in elementary, middle and high school.

Broward County Public Schools, believes in this education and 13 years ago partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) to provide every student with the education and experience to practice financial literacy concepts, develop work skills and learn entrepreneurial values. JA is part of one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the world that delivers hands-on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

In JA’s BizTown program, every 5th grade student participates in classroom lessons and a full day experience in a simulated city with life-like storefronts at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion. At BizTown, each child is assigned a job, earns a salary, saves and spends their earnings, helps run their business and contributes to running a mock economy.

“It’s great to see kids in action, getting a hands-on understanding of how money’s managed and how businesses are run.  JA programs immerse students in real-world environments,” said a mother and JA volunteer, Mercedes. “I was fortunate to learn about money from my family. They understood the value of money and importance of budgeting and saving. Many of my friends never learned this at home, and it wasn’t taught in schools, so they made a lot of money mistakes.”

In another wing of JA World, all 8th grade students participate in the Finance Park program. After completing classroom lessons that introduce them to career paths, they learn about real-life finance concepts like taxes, interest, credit scores and saving for emergencies. Students take on adult profiles and navigate a simulated town to learn about careers and budgeting their earnings.

“I wish I had this when I was young,” said Julie Franciosi-Jackson, an Assistant Principal at Crystal Lake Middle School. “This curriculum and experience gives students a chance to learn about career opportunities and how to manage the money they earn.”

When young people don’t see a path to a productive, prosperous future, they become disengaged and disenchanted. The consequences — financial hardship, debt, dismal credit scores — of making one poor financial decision can follow them for decades. One of the best things we can do for young people is prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood.

JA also delivers high school programs that provide financial literacy education, including, Stock Market Challenge, where high school students compete in teams to invest portfolios; JA Career Bound, a career exploration and employment preparation program; Youth Employment, a program placing students in paid summer jobs; Marine/Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program, preparing students for apprenticeships and employment, and 3DE, a model that transforms high school education.

We can all contribute to creating the next generation of financially literate citizens.  Get involved – mentor, volunteer, teach and support financial literacy today. Visit www.jasouthflorida.org.

Next Generation of Financially Literate Citizens
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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

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION
JA Hosts Girls Rule: Ignite Your Superpower on March 9
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Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge

Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge

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

COCONUT CREEK, FL — From February 23rd to March 3rd, between 9:00 AM & 1:00 PM. More than 1,200 Broward County Public Schools and Charter high schoolers, representing 14 schools, will be competing in Junior Achievement of South Florida’s (JA) Stock Market Challenge at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion.

During the challenge, students compete against each other in teams in a simulated stock market environment that is hectic, loud, exciting and filled with energy. Student teams are given $500,000 in imitation currency used to make their initial stock selections from more than 25 fictitious companies before the challenge begins. At the end of the challenge, the team with the stock portfolio with the highest net worth wins!

“The secret to success during the challenge lies in students’ ability to collaborate with their team and their understanding of the big ideas about the stock market,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO. “This is just one of several programs JA offers that empowers youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy and lead our community.”

Last year, JA piloted the Stock Market Challenge with students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, and it was a success. “I loved the high energy of the simulation and will take the strategies used to be successful in investing in the real world,” Marjory Stoneman Douglas student said.

This year, Stock Market Challenge is being sponsored by Broward Sheriff’s Office and CitiBank. Special thanks to JA’s over 7,100 community volunteers for mentoring our youth for this and other entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness programs that impact 69,000 youth each year

Watch highlights from the 2022 event, as featured on WPLG Local 10 — CLICK HERE. JA Stock Market Challenge photos are available upon request.

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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
Broward County Students Compete in Stock Market Challenge
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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 Robyn@JASouthFlorida.org 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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WSVN: New Rick Case Interactive Storefront

WSVN: New Rick Case Interactive Storefront

New Rick Case interactive storefront gives students real-world experience into the auto industry

BY 7 NEWS WSVN

COCONUT CREEK, FLA. (WSVN) – South Florida students recently got a first-hand experience of what it is like to work in the auto industry.

The brand-new, state-of-the-art interactive Rick Case storefront is part of “JA BizTown,” a simulated city in JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, the largest single JA facility in the world.

“Our goal was to make our storefront both engaging and educational for the students,” said President and CEO of the Rick Case Auto Group Rita Case. “We want young people to know that the auto industry is a vital part of our economy and provides great career opportunities, as well.”

JA BizTown is a collection of businesses sponsored by real local businesses, designed to demonstrate how a functioning economy works, as students play roles as executives, associates, and consumers at businesses within the town.

Click to learn more about JA BizTown.

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WSVN: New Rick Case Interactive Storefront
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Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons

Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons

Support will also include work and career readiness and entrepreneurship lessons

City of Coconut Creek, Florida (October 19, 2022) — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is one of five local JA operations across the country participating in a partnership with Synovus Bank. Synovus recently contributed $250,000 to Junior Achievement USA through its Here Matters Community Fund to deliver lessons on financial literacy, essential life skills, work and career readiness and entrepreneurship to thousands of students in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. The lessons will educate and empower children throughout their journeys toward a bright and successful future. The Synovus contribution was the bank’s first donation to a nonprofit since establishing the community fund.

Through this partnership, Junior Achievement of South Florida, alongside local Synovus Bank representatives, will determine which learning experiences best meet the needs of the Broward and south Palm Beach communities.

“Our research shows students are eager to learn about money, business ownership, and work and careers, but they often don’t know where to go for help,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “With the commitment of Synovus, we will be able to help thousands of young people gain knowledge in these critical life skills.”

JA learning experiences depend on volunteers from partners like Synovus to help bring lessons to life for the students it serves. As part of Synovus’ community outreach program called Here Matters, Synovus team members will help teach JA programs in local schools.

“At Synovus, our purpose is to enable people to reach their full potential,” said Sean Simpson, Synovus’ FL Division CEO. “JA inspires young people to take charge of their financial futures, and we’re proud to partner with the nonprofit to strengthen communities and positively impact future generations.”

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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.

About Synovus Bank

Synovus Bank, a Georgia-chartered, FDIC-insured bank, provides commercial and retail banking and a full suite of specialized products and services, including private banking, treasury management, wealth management, mortgage services, premium finance, asset-based lending, structured lending, and international banking through branches in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee. Synovus is a Great Place to Work-Certified Company and is on the web at synovus.com, and on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

For More Information, Contact:

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

Junior Achievement Partners with Synovus Bank to Deliver Financial Literacy Lessons
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