March 2026

For generations, the promise of economic mobility—the belief that each new generation can build a more stable and prosperous future—has been central to the American narrative. Yet today, that promise is increasingly out of reach. Too often, a child’s ZIP code, family income, and access to early opportunities still shape their future more than their potential does.

At Junior Achievement, we’re committed to changing that. Every day, we equip students with the skills, mentorship, and real‑world experiences they need to navigate a rapidly evolving economy.

Our recent thought‑leadership whitepaper takes a deeper look at:

• Why economic mobility is no longer a given
• How education, mentorship, financial capability, and career exposure work together to drive meaningful change
• The growing evidence behind multi‑lever strategies that lead to measurable outcomes for young people and their communities

Your support makes this progress possible. When partners like you invest in students, you’re helping match talent with opportunity—and creating ripple effects that can strengthen families and communities for generations to come.

As you explore this month’s newsletter, you’ll find several meaningful ways to get involved and help expand these pathways for opportunity. Together, we can ensure more young people have the chance to realize their full potential.

Read the full whitepaper HERE to see how your partnership is transforming futures.

Mary Pille

President, JA of Central Illinois

Lend a Hand, Shape a Future

Make a direct, meaningful impact in the lives of local students by volunteering with Junior Achievement! We’re looking for caring, community‑minded individuals who want to bring real‑world learning to life in classrooms and experiential programs across Central Illinois. Your time and energy will empower young learners and help them build confidence for the future. Your involvement truly makes a difference—learn more and sign up through the JA Engage platform using the button below.

Your help is especially valuable right now. We have an urgent need for the following classes:

Classroom Volunteers Needed

There are current openings for volunteers at Bent Elementary and Washington Elementary in Bloomington, Bethel Lutheran School in Morton, and Franklin Primary School in Peoria

JA Mobile Discovery Center Volunteers

JA BizTown volunteers are needed this spring in Peoria at Elise Ford Allen Academy and Reservoir Gifted Academy and in Peoria Heights at Peoria Heights Grade School and St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School.

Volunteers are needed for JA Finance Park at St Vincent De Paul School in Peoria.

Learn more and sign up for these opportunities through the JA Engage platform using the button below.

Seeking Volunteer Videographer for JA BizTown

JA BizTown is a new and exciting addition to Junior Achievement programming in Central Illinois. This hands‑on, pop‑up city is brought directly into schools or community spaces, giving students an unforgettable opportunity to step into real‑world roles as business leaders and active citizens.

This hands‑on simulation is one of the most memorable experiences we offer, and having high‑quality video allows us to share those moments with teachers, sponsors, families, and members of our community.

We are seeking a volunteer videographer to help us capture the energy and impact of this experience. The role includes spending a few hours at one JA BizTown session to record footage and then editing the video into a final product. We can also provide additional photos and graphics if helpful.



JA staff will guide you through the flow of the day, and you’ll have a front‑row seat as students step into their roles as business leaders and citizens.



Your talent can help us showcase the impact of JA BizTown and inspire future volunteers and supporters. If you’re interested in volunteering as our videographer, please reach out — we’d be grateful to have you.  jessica.jarnagin@ja.org

Olympia Middle School Hosts CareerSpark

Olympia Middle School buzzed with excitement on March 4 as 255 sixth- and seventh-grade students participated in CareerSpark, an engaging career‑readiness experience designed to open students’ eyes to future opportunities. The experience brought together an outstanding group of community exhibitors who showcased career paths across healthcare, skilled trades, finance, public service, technology, education, agriculture, and more.



Students rotated through interactive stations where they tried hands-on activities and learned directly from professionals who bring essential skills and services to our region. From medical tools and safety equipment to financial literacy resources and creative arts demonstrations, students had the chance to explore career fields they may pursue in the years ahead. Learn more and see a list of exhibitors here.

Dueling Pianos Supporting McLean County

Support educational experiences in Bloomington Normal at Dueling Pianos featuring the Fun Pianos Show on April 30 at Destihl Barrel Room. You can expect a musical party of singing, dancing, comedy, and outrageous piano playing, with all proceeds directly supporting educational experiences in McLean County. (See highlights from a show here!) 

We will also be honoring our McLean County Teacher of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sponsorships are available. Contact sally.eastman@ja.org to reserve your table or purchase tickets.

Welcome to the JA Young Professionals Board Rea & Reed

Junior Achievement is pleased to welcome Rea Ghantous and Reed Sanders to the JA Young Professionals Board. Both bring valuable expertise, energy, and a passion for inspiring the next generation.

Rea Ghantous, a Private Banking Associate at Busey Bank, brings strengths that align closely with JA’s mission of financial literacy. Her enthusiasm for helping young people build confidence in their financial and career paths makes her a strong addition to the board.

Reed Sanders, a former JA student and active volunteer, now serves as a Red Team Security Consultant at Google. His journey—from JA participant to industry professional to board member—reflects the lasting impact of JA programs and his ongoing commitment to giving back.

Junior Achievement looks forward to the energy and perspective they each will contribute as they help empower the next generation.