Celebrating National Mentoring Month with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

Author: Cathy Essick
Community Involvement
Published: Wednesday, 01 Jan 2025

Sharing

Image caption: A Junior Achievement mentor engages with students, guiding them through hands-on activities to develop career skills and financial literacy.

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the power of mentoring in shaping lives and futures. At Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI), mentoring is at the heart of everything we do. Our programs thrive thanks to the incredible educators, volunteers, and community partners who dedicate their time and expertise to inspire and empower students across our region.

The Impact of Mentoring with JAEI

Through Junior Achievement programs, mentors help students connect classroom learning to real-world applications. They guide young people in developing crucial skills such as financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. Mentors are more than teachers; they are role models who inspire confidence, ignite passions, and help students envision their future potential.

In the 2023-2024 school year, Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa served over 41,000 students, providing more than 200,000 instructional hours. This success would not be possible without the dedication of our mentors who work hand-in-hand with students to make these life-changing programs a reality.

Why Mentoring Matters

Studies show that young people with mentors are more likely to set higher goals, pursue further education, and make better financial decisions. Mentoring helps bridge the gap between what students learn in school and what they need to thrive in the workforce and life. For many students, a mentor’s guidance can be the spark that drives them to achieve their dreams.

Celebrating Our Mentors

This January, we’re taking the opportunity to highlight the incredible contributions of our mentors, including educators, volunteers, and board members. Their efforts ensure that Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success continues to make a lasting impact.

We’re especially proud of the relationships our mentors build with students. These connections are often the key to unlocking potential and creating opportunities that last a lifetime. From long-standing educators who have championed JA programs for years to dedicated volunteers who bring their professional expertise into the classroom, we are endlessly grateful for their support.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Are you inspired by the power of mentoring? National Mentoring Month is the perfect time to get involved with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a passionate community member, your mentorship can make a world of difference in a student’s life. Volunteering with JAEI is a rewarding experience that allows you to give back to your community while shaping the future of tomorrow’s leaders.

Thank You to Our Mentors and Supporters

As we celebrate National Mentoring Month, we want to extend our deepest thanks to all the mentors, educators, and partners who make our work possible. Your commitment to inspiring the next generation is truly remarkable.

Let’s continue to work together to empower young people with the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Here’s to celebrating mentorship and the positive change it brings to our community!

Get Involved: Ready to mentor or support our mission? Visit Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa’s website to learn how you can make an impact today.

#NationalMentoringMonth #JuniorAchievement #MentorshipMatters #EmpoweringYouth