Boundless Futures through Education

Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa is a nonprofit that inspires and prepares young people for success

How you can get started

Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa provides several ways that you can get involved whether you're someone looking to volunteer, part of a district or school looking for educational materials, or part of a business looking to help us expand the reach of our mission.

Volunteers

In-person or Virtual you can Volunteer with Junior Achievement and make a profound difference in the youth of our community.

Volunteers, begin here

Schools and Parents

Junior Achievement provides activities, guides, thought leadership and lots of additional resources to support learning.

Schools and Parents, begin here

Partners

Junior Achievement partners with corporations and individuals to fund the programs that are delivered to our local students.

Partners, begin here

Online resources for Eastern Iowa Teachers and Parents

Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa is providing free online resources to teachers and parents. We are doing this so our kids can spend more time planning for and dreaming about tomorrow, and less time worrying about today. We are committed to doing this until we can all be certain again.

Donate Now

Your immediate contribution will be put to work right away to help more JA programs get into classrooms and have a positive impact on the students in our community!

Donate Now

Program Resources

I am a teacher, parent or student looking for stand-alone activities, facilitator guides, or ancillary resources that support learning.

Learn More about Program Resources

JA of Eastern Iowa Spotlight

Calling all JA Alumni!

Did JA make a difference in your life? Is there a story you want to share about how a JA mentor helped positively influence your life or career? Do you want to re-connect with JA and others who had "the JA experience?"

Learn about JA Alumni

Junior Achievement classroom volunteer standing in front of a group of students sitting on the carpet. The JA Our Community poster is hanging up behind her as she speaks to the class. Students have their hands raised.

Junior Achievement Volunteer Needs

Junior Achievement is experiencing a volunteer shortage. We need you! Help inspire today's youth so that we can all have a brighter tomorrow.

Learn about
Junior Achievement Volunteer Needs

Celebrating Entrepreneurship: A Journey with Brandon Pratt

In honor of National Entrepreneurship Month, this blog post highlights the inspiring journey of Brandon Pratt, founder of Lion Development Group and Gravy Train Restaurant Group. Brandon's entrepreneurial spirit began in his childhood, influenced by his father’s work ethic. Overcoming early challenges, including skepticism due to his youth, Brandon built a successful career driven by a desire to provide for his family and prove others wrong. He emphasizes the importance of passion, persistence, and education in entrepreneurship. Brandon credits his involvement in Business Professionals of America (BPA) and his commitment to Junior Achievement for shaping his business acumen and fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. His story serves as a reminder that with determination, anyone can achieve success and create meaningful change.

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Spotlight on Entrepreneurship: Malia Gudenkauf of Little Miss Finance

Malia Gudenkauf, founder of Little Miss Finance, is celebrated for her entrepreneurial journey and commitment to financial literacy. From childhood ventures like lemonade stands to leaving a corporate career for greater independence, Malia has built a business that empowers others, especially women, to take control of their finances. Influenced by her parents and financial educator Mike Finley, she shares her passion for financial education through accessible, jargon-free content. Overcoming self-doubt and embracing the freedom of entrepreneurship, Malia encourages others to follow their passions and make a difference, drawing inspiration from her own experiences with Junior Achievement. Through Little Miss Finance, she’s not only running a business but also shaping a lasting legacy of financial empowerment.

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40439

Students Reached Locally
2022-2023

1636

Classes Locally
2022-2023

1384

Volunteers Locally
2022-2023

156

Schools Reached Locally
2022-2023