Celebrating National Mentoring Month: Junior Achievement’s Group Mentoring Approach

Author: Cathy Essick
Corporate Responsibility
Published: Tuesday, 14 Jan 2025

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Image caption: Students in action! Thanks to our amazing volunteer, this classroom is learning valuable skills in teamwork, financial literacy, and career readiness. Together, we are shaping bright futures!

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the power of mentoring and its impact on young people. At Junior Achievement (JA) of Eastern Iowa, we’re proud to use a group mentoring approach that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their potential as adults. This hands-on, collaborative method brings small groups of students together with mentors who guide them through engaging activities and meaningful discussions.

Key Aspects of Junior Achievement’s Group Mentoring

Collaborative Learning
In JA’s group mentoring programs, students work together on projects and activities. This teamwork helps them develop critical communication and collaboration skills that they’ll use throughout their lives.

Real-World Insights
What makes JA unique is the way we work with professionals from a variety of industries to bring real-world experience into our programs. Mentors share their career journeys, insights, and practical advice on topics like career readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. These authentic connections help students see the relevance of their education and inspire them to dream bigger.

One student from Alburnett Elementary shared, “I learned about saving money and starting your own business.” These lessons, delivered by professionals, make an incredible impact on young minds.

Supportive Environment
The group setting creates a safe and encouraging environment where students can support one another, build confidence, and develop their social skills. It’s not just about what they learn but how they grow as individuals and teammates.

Structured Programs
JA’s structured programs are designed to be engaging and educational. From business ethics to economics and personal finance, these programs encourage critical thinking and creative problem-solving—skills essential for success in today’s world.

Image caption: Volunteers bring real-world experiences into the classroom, creating meaningful interactions that inspire students to dream big and think creatively about their futures. Together, they build confidence, knowledge, and connections that last a lifetime.

The Impact of Mentoring in Junior Achievement

Group mentoring has a profound impact on the students we serve. Research conducted by Ipsos highlights the significant benefits of Junior Achievement programs:

91% of Alumni report that JA motivated them to learn.
85% of Alumni say JA gave them confidence in new situations.
76% of Alumni recall having a JA volunteer in their class.
65% remember the concepts their JA mentor taught them.
84% note that JA positively influenced their decision to pursue higher education.
81% say JA shaped their career path.
90% report that JA exposed them to different ways of thinking.

Many JA Alumni cite the lasting influence of their mentors, with a significant number pursuing careers similar to those of their JA volunteers. This speaks to the transformative power of mentoring in helping young people envision and achieve their dreams.

Katie Hayes, a Transamerica employee and dedicated Junior Achievement volunteer, shares why she gives her time to JA:

“I chose to volunteer for JA because I believe it is important for children to understand that they are part of a community and how communities work together. I also enjoy being around children and teaching important skills they’ll use as they grow into young adults. I believe it benefits students because they learn to understand wants versus needs. These concepts are applicable in many ways such as how their parents or guardians make decisions for the household up to how their communities make decisions. The students also benefit from understanding how the jobs in their communities work together, how jobs make money and how taxes are used to support the communities they live in. The students better understand how they can contribute to their communities now and going forward. The JA program benefits Transamerica and the communities we live and work in by investing in our youth for a bright future. As a financial services company, Transamerica’s purpose is to help people live their best lives. The JA program gives Transamerica the opportunity to reach our youth and provide them with the tools they need to live their best lives.”

Celebrate Mentoring with Junior Achievement

As we honor National Mentoring Month, we’re reminded of the incredible impact mentors have on shaping the future. By sharing their time, expertise, and encouragement, our mentors are empowering the next generation to thrive.

To learn more about Junior Achievement and how you can get involved, visit Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa.

Together, let’s continue to inspire, guide, and empower young people to build brighter futures! If you’re interested in volunteering or would like someone to visit your business to discuss volunteer opportunities, please email Dani Carter.