Powering Possibility: Wells Fargo and Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

Author: Cathy Essick
Corporate Responsibility
Published: Wednesday, 22 Oct 2025

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Image caption: Wells Fargo’s partnership with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa reflects a shared commitment to building financially resilient communities.

At Wells Fargo, helping communities thrive is more than a mission—it’s a shared responsibility. That’s why the company’s partnership with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI) feels like such a natural fit. As Britney Appelgate, Vice President and Lead Community Impact and Sustainability Specialist, explains, “Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success aligns perfectly with our focus on fueling a strong economy. By supporting Junior Achievement, we help equip students with the financial knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Wells Fargo’s commitment to building financially resilient families, supporting vibrant small businesses, and fostering inclusive growth mirrors the outcomes Junior Achievement (JA) strives to achieve through its hands-on learning experiences. From financial literacy to career readiness and entrepreneurship, JA programs empower students to make informed decisions about their futures—skills that directly support Wells Fargo’s vision of strong, sustainable communities.

Beyond financial support, Wells Fargo employees regularly engage with JA programs as volunteers, sharing their expertise and experiences with students across Eastern Iowa. “JA provides opportunities for our employees to connect their work to a larger purpose,” Appelgate said. “It’s rewarding to see them teaching financial concepts, encouraging critical thinking, and helping young people imagine what’s possible.”

Student handing a debit card to another student

Image caption: Students at JA BizTown® Mobile gain hands-on experience managing finances and serving customers in the Wells Fargo storefront—learning firsthand how teamwork, budgeting, and decision-making shape success in the real world.

One initiative especially meaningful to the Wells Fargo team is JA BizTown® Mobile. The mobile innovative program brings financial literacy and career simulations directly to students, including those in rural areas who may not have access to traditional field trip opportunities. “By removing barriers like cost and transportation, JA BizTown® Mobile ensures that more students can experience this transformational program,” Appelgate shared. “The expanded access it provides has been invaluable for students and educators alike.”

For Wells Fargo, the partnership with Junior Achievement is about more than philanthropy—it’s about building the foundation for future prosperity. “JA offers a proven platform for investing in the future workforce, fostering financial capability, and cultivating meaningful relationships,” Appelgate said. “What sets JA apart is their commitment to working with each business partner to identify shared goals and create tailored opportunities for engagement. This customized approach has been incredibly successful for our team, allowing us to make a tangible difference in the lives of students and the communities we serve.”

Kristi Brown, Development Director at Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the depth of Wells Fargo’s impact. “Wells Fargo exemplifies what true partnership looks like,” Brown said. “Their dedication goes far beyond financial support—they are hands-on, engaged, and genuinely committed to empowering the next generation. Because of partners like Wells Fargo, students across Eastern Iowa are gaining the confidence and skills to create stronger futures for themselves and their communities.”

Through its partnership with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa, Wells Fargo continues to power possibility—helping young people gain the confidence, skills, and knowledge to build brighter financial futures and stronger communities for generations to come.