Introducing: JA Steps to Success
Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans (JA) is thrilled to announce the launch of its exciting new program, JA Steps to Success. This innovative initiative is set to empower young people, providing them with the mentorship they need to navigate the crucial transition from high school to adulthood.
JA Steps to Success is a dynamic half-day program that focuses on equipping youth with the skills and knowledge they need as they prepare for life after high school. It's a collaborative effort, bringing together schools, community mentors, and Junior Achievement, all united by a common goal—to create a strong support network for area youth.
The program's primary objective is to help students bridge the gap between their educational choices and their career aspirations, ultimately guiding them towards achieving their life goals. By connecting students with experienced mentors from the community, JA aims to make a profound and lasting impact on their lives, setting them on a path toward professional and financial success.
During the program, students are grouped with trained mentors who guide them through a wide range of activities. These activities are designed to provide students with practical knowledge and hands-on experience, including:
Budget Building - Students create a monthly budget using the amount of $3,000 dollars. The goal is to find an income that will make them financially independent and comfortable.
Email Etiquette - Students edit an unprofessional email and use workplace communication skills to rewrite an acceptable work email.
Resume Building - Students develop their brag sheet. They then apply the skills on their brag sheet to create a resume.
Vision Board - Students create vision boards, displaying a financial and career readiness goal developed with their mentors.
Interview Skills - Students practice soft skills and workplace communication to prepare them for interviews.
Innovation Project - Students brainstorm to solve a workplace problem and pitch their solution to the small group.
Credit & Debt - Students explore the difference of credit versus debit and practice methods of debt management.
The heart of JA Steps to Success lies in connecting students with experienced business professionals who will serve as their mentors. These mentors will not only share their knowledge but also provide invaluable insights and guidance to help students make informed decisions about their futures.
With JA Steps to Success, we aim to foster meaningful relationships between students and seasoned mentors, allowing students to draw from the experiences of those who have already navigated the challenges they now face. By creating this network of support, we believe that we can empower our youth to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.
In a world where the transition from high school to adulthood can be daunting, JA Steps to Success is here to provide the guidance and support students need to succeed. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will have on the lives of young people in our region. Together, we can shape a brighter, more prosperous future for our youth.
For more information on volunteering as a mentor or to schedule this program in your school, please contact Blaire Brown-Stroemple at blaire@jagno.org.