Our Blog
Grad Nation: If Not College, Then What?
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Work Readiness
For decades, earning a four-year college degree has been seen as the key to upward mobility. However, rising college costs and increasing student debt are causing many to question the value of a college...
Becoming a Nonprofit President: Insights from JA Western MA President Amie Miarecki
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, we dive deep into the journey of becoming a president with Amie Miarecki, President of Junior Achievement of Western...
Summer Jobs = Career Readiness
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Work Readiness
Summer is a season often synonymous with relaxation and leisure for many teenagers. However, an increasing number of teens are leveraging this break from school to gain valuable work experience through summer jobs. These opportunities not only provide immediate benefits but also prepare young people for success in a global...
Announcing Junior Achievement’s 18 Under 18 Class of 2024
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Last week, Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) honored its 18 Under 18 Class of 2024, sponsored by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, at Tower Square in...
Pathfinder Tech student takes home top honors in EnTEENpreneur Challenge
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) held its annual EnTEENpreneur Challenge, a pitch contest similar in format to one seen on a reality TV show about entrepreneurship, on April 25 at the UMass Amherst Center at Springfield in Tower...
Unlocking Opportunities: Preparing Teens for an AI Future
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Work Readiness
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has swiftly become a driving force reshaping our world. From enhancing educational experiences to revolutionizing industries, its impact is profound and far-reaching. Yet, amidst the promises of innovation, questions arise, particularly among young people, about the future of work and the career paths that will remain resilient in an increasingly AI-driven...
From Literacy to Action: Empowering Teens for Financial Wellness
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Financial Literacy
In today's dynamic economic landscape, financial literacy is more than just understanding conceptsit's about taking action. Junior Achievement champions this philosophy with the theme "From Literacy to Action." Our mission is clear: to equip individuals, especially young people, with the tools and confidence needed to navigate personal finances...
Because of JA...The Impact of Junior Achievement on Fis Life
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Community Involvement
In a world where the impact of every action matters, volunteering stands out as a powerful means of making a difference. At the heart of JA lies the belief that every individual has the potential to shape the future, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through initiatives like "Because of JA," volunteers contribute to meaningful change, one classroom at a...
Stemming the STEM Decline
Blog from JA USA
By Kelsey Matzinger
Work Readiness
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers have long been hailed as the anchor of innovation and economic progress. However, despite the critical role they play in shaping the future, there's a concerning trend in the declining interest among students, particularly in non-medical STEM...
Mayor Sarno, Rock 102′s Steve Nagle bartend to raise money for Junior Achievement
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno served as a celebrity bartender Tuesday night, all to benefit Junior Achievement of Western...