I’ve been fortunate enough to volunteer with Junior Achievement for the past two years. It wasn’t until this past week, however, that I conducted my first “Capitalism with a Conscience” program at Gateway High School. The program basically deals with ethics and business — doing the right thing at work. It was a complete thrill to experience with the students! From the moment I arrived, being greeted and treated with respect, by my JA chaperon (Tara Petersen) put me in the right frame of mind to deliver the materials. The teacher was Candy Lane and she and her class were a joy to be around.
Life is often about timing and how perfect for me to be in that classroom discussing ethics in business while the Toyota situation played out in today’s news. We had some tremendous debates going on and the students took to the lesson and ran with it. I know in our short time together I was able to give them something to think about and, as always, I’m sure a few of them will use the information as they move into the workforce.
As a returning volunteer, let me take the time to thank all of the JA staff for what they do. There are too many names to mention individually, but their dedication and commitment to success for all concerned (volunteer/school/JA) is unbelievable! I feel we, as adults, should take a more active role in trying to teach proper/moral business values to our youth, who in turn will be better equipped to lead our nation. I’m only hoping that as I get older, my small volunteer investment will be rewarded by having competent and compassionate leaders to look after me!
JA is a PERFECT organization to support, because when everything is said and done it’s all win/win…for the kids/school/administrators/JA and most importantly YOU. How could you NOT want to be a part of something so rewarding? GO AHEAD, TAKE THE CHANCE, AND GET INVOLVED. THE ONLY THING YOU HAVE TO FEAR IS CHANGING A KID’S LIFE.
-Keith Jones