Author: jaswo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Canada Life Supports Junior Achievement for Expanded Financial Literacy Education for Youth Across Southwestern Ontario

26 November 2025
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Canada Life Supports Junior Achievement for Expanded Financial Literacy Education for Youth Across Southwestern Ontario

London, ON – November 26, 2025.

As Canada wraps up Financial Literacy Month, Junior Achievement South Western Ontario (JA SWO) is excited to announce a renewed and energized collaboration with Canada Life, whose $120,000 investment over the next two years will assist in bringing financial health programs to even more young people across the region.

This support comes at a time when navigating finances has become increasingly complex for families. Rising living costs, evolving job markets, and rapid changes in the financial landscape mean today’s youth will greatly benefit from strong financial literacy skills.

“Financial literacy is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’, it is essential,” said Karen Gallant, President and CEO of JA South Western Ontario. “Canada Life’s support strengthens our ability to deliver hands-on learning experiences that help students feel confident about budgeting, credit, saving, and investing. Our financial health programs assist in setting young people up for their future, but also provide them with many tools they can put to use right away.”

“At Canada Life, we believe financial literacy is a critical life skill,” said Jeff Van Hoeve, SVP Business Integration, Canada Life, “That’s why we’re proud to support JA South Western Ontario an organization that helps ensure more young people have access to the tools and knowledge they need to assist in making confident financial decisions.”

Reaching Youth Who Need It Most

Thanks to this renewed support, JA SWO will continue expanding its reach in schools identified as having higher percentages of vulnerable students in a recent study by JA Canada and JA SWO.

By focusing efforts on these communities, JA SWO aims to deliver life-changing financial literacy experiences to students who may otherwise lack access to this kind of learning.

What’s New This Year

Canada Life’s funding will also help launch a refreshed Investment Strategies program for high school students, featuring dynamic digital resources and an improved personal investment plan activity. This enhanced program is designed to attract educators seeking modern, engaging approaches to teaching financial literacy.

JA SWO will also continue delivering its well-loved financial health learning experiences including More Than Money, Dollars with Sense, and Economics for Success to classrooms across the region.

Expanding Impact Across South Western Ontario

With Canada Life’s support, JA SWO will deliver 60 financial learning experiences to 1,800 students each year, engage and train dedicated volunteers to bring real-world financial knowledge into classrooms, and work closely with educators to ensure programs reach the students who benefit most.

JA’s survey data consistently shows that students leave the programs with increased confidence in money management skills that assist in forming the foundation of long-term financial well-being.

About JA South Western Ontario:
Originally formed in 1919, Junior Achievement is now one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs. JA prepares young people for employment and entrepreneurship, delivering hands-on, experiential learning in work readiness, financial health, and entrepreneurship. Reaching more than 10 million young people last year, JA is one of few organizations with the scale, experience, and passion to build a brighter future for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, makers, and managers.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara. jaswo.org

About Canada Life:

Canada Life is a leading insurance, wealth management and benefits provider focused on improving the financial, physical, and mental well-being of Canadians. For over 175 years, individuals, families and business owners across Canada have trusted us to provide sound guidance and deliver on the promises we’ve made. We proudly serve more than 14 million customer relationships from coast to coast to coast. Canada Life is a subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco Inc. and a member of the Power Corporation of Canada group of companies. Visit canadalife.com to learn more.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Junior Achievement South Western Ontario Launches Holiday Giving Campaign with $10,000 Match

20 November 2025
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Junior Achievement South Western Ontario Launches Holiday Giving Campaign with $10,000 Match from Brad Geddes and the Geddes Family Foundation

Junior Achievement South Western Ontario (JASWO) has launched its annual holiday giving campaign, inviting the community to help local students build brighter futures. This year, every donation will have double the impact thanks to a generous $10,000 matching pledge from JA Investor, Brad Geddes and the Geddes Family Foundation.

 Too many young people in Southwestern Ontario are entering adulthood without the confidence, financial literacy, or real-world skills they need to build a secure future. According to the Ontario Campaign 2000 Report Card (2024), 1 in 5 children in Ontario live in poverty, the largest increase on record. At the same time, a TD survey reports that 7 in 10 parents expect their children will face greater financial challenges than they did, and nearly 3 in 5 parents often worry about their children’s financial future.

“These challenges are real, but our community can be part of the solution,” said Karen Gallant, JASWO President & CEO. “JA programs empower youth with the skills, confidence, and tools they need to navigate their financial futures, from understanding money and exploring careers to launching their first business idea. This match helps us reach even more students at a time when they need it most.”

Celebrating the Geddes Family Foundation’s Commitment to Local Youth

Brad Geddes, President & CEO of ZucoraHome, has been a long-time champion of JA South Western Ontario, supporting hands-on learning and opportunities that prepare young people for real-world success. A JA Company Program alumnus and current Director Emeritus of the Board of Directors, Brad’s involvement with JASWO spans more than a decade. His leadership and belief in investing in youth have been instrumental in helping JASWO expand its reach and deepen its impact across the region.

“I give Junior Achievement full credit for sparking the passion and desire I have to create and grow successful businesses,” said Brad Geddes. “JA taught me the value of financial health, the importance of being prepared for the workplace, and—most importantly—what it takes to be an entrepreneur.”

“As JA Investors and supporters, my family and I know the impact JA makes in our community,” he continued. “It’s our hope that we might inspire others to also support this work, so JA has the resources it needs to help shape the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs.”

This season, the Geddes Family Foundation’s $10,000 matching gift will double every gift made. A $25 donation becomes $50. A $100 donation becomes $200, twice the opportunity for local students.

Investing in the Next Generation

Donations made through the holiday campaign support free, hands-on JA programs delivered in classrooms across Southwestern Ontario. These programs help students build financial confidence, explore career pathways, and develop entrepreneurial thinking that will carry them into adulthood.

“When you give, you help equip young people to face challenges no generation has seen before,” said Bobbi-Jo Gardiner, CFRE, JASWO Director of Philanthropy. “And when your gift becomes monthly, you provide the dependable support that helps students build confidence, stability, and brighter futures.”

Video Announcement:

Community members can make a one-time or monthly gift online.


DONATE: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/139694

Together, we can ensure every student in our region has the opportunity not just to succeed today, but to build a stronger, more resilient future for years to come.

 

IN THE NEWS: Youth entrepreneurship in action (DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University)

28 July 2025
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Youth entrepreneurship in action

July 23, 2025

Contributed by: Natalie Plechinger, Communications Assistant

Three members of Hamilton’s Junior Achievement team stand behind a table with BrightBox displays.
Entrepreneurship does not always begin with a clear plan – it often starts with curiosity, collaboration and the motivation to try something new.

To encourage entrepreneurial endeavours among Hamilton’s youth, this past year DeGroote partnered with Junior Achievement South Western Ontario. Their programming provides underserved youth with the opportunity to delve into the entrepreneurial world. After being away for 15 years, the program returned to Hamilton with DeGroote’s support, providing high school students with the skills, support and knowledge to develop a business. The Hamilton team navigated challenges along the way but ended up winning the southwestern Ontario regional competition. This summer they advanced to the national finals where they competed with teams from across Canada in the Social Enterprise Category.

Participants of this program successfully navigated the complexities of starting a business while turning to creativity and philanthropy to give back to their community. By embracing an entrepreneurial mindset, the Hamilton team not only ran a successful venture, but also developed personal and professional skills.

READ MORE

Three members of Hamilton's Junior Achievement team stand behind a table with BrightBox displays.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: London and District Business Hall of Fame Announces 2025 Inductees

10 June 2025
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London and District Business Hall of Fame Announces 2025 Inductees
Jo-Ann Fisher and Dale and Mark Hunter  to Join Prestigious Gallery of Laureates

London, ON – June 10, 2025 –  The London and District Business Hall of Fame is proud to announce the 2025 inductees who will be honoured at this year’s signature gala event on October 23rd at RBC Place London. Jo-Ann Fisher of Hangar9 and Dale and Mark Hunter of the London Knights and have been selected for induction into the Hall of Fame based on their outstanding contributions to business, entrepreneurship, ethics, and philanthropy.

The London and District Business Hall of Fame supports Junior Achievement South Western Ontario and honours respected members of the London and area business community, past and present, for their exceptional achievements in business and community leadership.

2025 Inductees:

Jo-Ann Fisher – Founder and Principal, Hangar9

Jo-Ann Fisher’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies the power of passion-driven business leadership. What began as a Mary Kay beauty consultant role evolved into a mission to empower women through personal style and confidence.

In 1985, Fisher opened her first boutique in London, laying the foundation for Hangar9—now a trusted name in Canadian fashion for over 40 years. Her innovative approach includes pioneering the capsule wardrobe concept through the Hangar9 Formula—[H9] + 9 = 36—which simplifies wardrobe decisions through nine essential pieces creating 36 versatile looks.

Under Fisher’s leadership, Hangar9 has expanded to Toronto, developed a strong eCommerce presence, and maintained its core philosophy that relationships always come before sales. Her numerous accolades include the Business Integrity Award, Enterprising Family of the Year, eCommerce Business of the Year, Best Places to Work, and Best Women’s Clothing Store in London. Today, Fisher continues to lead alongside her three daughters in this successful family-run business.

Dale Hunter – President, Head Coach, Owner, London Knights

A native of Petrolia, Ontario, Dale Hunter brings a remarkable legacy of excellence both as a player and leader in professional hockey. After an illustrious 19-year NHL career with the Quebec Nordiques, Washington Capitals, and Colorado Avalanche, Hunter has transformed the London Knights into one of the most successful franchises in junior hockey history.

Since taking the helm as head coach in 2001, Hunter has led the Knights to five of the franchise’s six OHL titles and three Memorial Cup Championships (2005, 2016, and 2025). His coaching excellence earned him CHL Coach of the Year honours in 2004, and he has represented Canada on the international stage, winning gold at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Tournament and coaching Canada to victory at the U20 World Junior Championships in Czechia.

Mark Hunter – Vice President, General Manager, Owner, London Knights

Also from Petrolia, Ontario, Mark Hunter has seamlessly transitioned from a successful playing career to becoming one of hockey’s most respected executives. The former first overall OHL draft pick enjoyed a 12-year NHL career, including a Stanley Cup victory with the Calgary Flames in 1989.

As General Manager and Vice President of Hockey Operations for the London Knights since 2000, Mark has been instrumental in building the organization’s championship culture, contributing to six OHL titles and three Memorial Cup victories. His expertise extends to international hockey, where he served as Canada’s General Manager for the 2019-2020 World Junior Championships, capturing gold alongside his brother Dale.

Tickets for the Gala Celebration are on sale now at jaswo.org/LBHF.

Wayne Dunn, Jo-Ann Fisher, Mark Hunter, Dale Hunter, and Karen Gallant at the Laureate Announcement Ceremony

 

Advice from an expert: Estate planning and legacy giving

27 May 2025
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I know firsthand how busy life can get with family, work, and volunteer commitments, and how easy it can be to postpone certain to-dos you’ve been meaning to cross off the list for weeks, months, or even years. For many, one of those to-dos is to make a Will and Powers of Attorney or to update existing ones. As a lawyer who practices in the areas of estate planning, estate administration, and charity law, I also know firsthand how important these documents are and how difficult it can be for your loved ones should you become incapacitated or pass away without them.

In my experience, estate planning is an opportunity to consider and document your intentions relating to your assets, your family, and your care, in the event of your incapacity and death, and typically involves making or updating a Will (or more than one Will, if you are a business owner), a Power of Attorney for Property, and a Power of Attorney for Personal Care.

In Ontario, if you die without a Will (intestate), your estate is administered under the province’s intestacy laws rather than in accordance with your wishes. Not only can dying intestate result in very unintended and costly consequences, such as your common law spouse being excluded as a beneficiary (as common law spouses do not have the same rights as married spouses under these laws) or a loved one having to apply to the court to be appointed your executor/estate trustee, but also missed opportunities for trust planning, tax planning, insurance planning, succession planning, and legacy giving.

As May is Leave a Legacy Month, let’s focus on the last one: legacy giving.

Regardless of a client’s age, when discussing their estate planning objectives and helping them to make their Will(s), an important question I ask is whether they would like to include a charitable gift or gifts, and if so, what charity(ies) and causes they wish to support. Some of my clients have already thought about this carefully, have had discussions with their charity(ies) of choice, and/or have set up their own family fund or foundation to steward their donations. Conversely, for some of my clients, this is the first time they have ever considered or seriously considered leaving a legacy gift in their Will; not because they are not charitable, but because they have never been asked, have felt confused about how or when to incorporate charitable donations into their estate plan, and/or have falsely assumed their estate will be “too small” to leave an impactful gift.

These conversations are always meaningful and open the door for my clients to further consider legacy giving and to discuss their intentions and the benefits of same with me and their other trusted advisors, including their accountants, investment advisors, and financial planners.
I would encourage you to discuss estate planning and legacy giving with your trusted advisors as well – we are here to help.

Jessica Williams
Associate – Wills/Estates
HARRISON PENSA LLP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Flanagan Family Honoured at 2025 Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame Gala 

26 May 2025
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Flanagan Family Honoured at 2025 Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame Gala

Kitchener, ON – May 26, 2025.  Guests filled the Embassy Room at Bingemans Conference Centre on May 13, 2025 as the Flanagan family of Flanagan Foodservice was inducted into the Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. The Gala Celebration induction ceremony is a signature fundraising event in support of Junior Achievement South Western Ontario and their youth learning experiences in the areas of financial health, work readiness, and entrepreneurship.

Founded in 1977, Flanagan Foodservice has grown into Canada’s largest Canadian-owned foodservice distributor. Throughout its expansion, the Flanagan family has stayed true to its founding values of exceptional service, innovation, and community commitment. In 2018, they furthered their impact by establishing a family-run charitable foundation benefiting causes across the region.
Emceed by Mike Farwell of Rogers Radio, the evening featured inspiring speeches, an impactful conversation with JA Company Program alumni, a silent auction, and musical performances by Amadea and Osanna Mikitka of the Kitchener-Waterloo Youth Orchestra. JA President & CEO Karen Gallant highlighted JA SWO’s growing impact, with nearly 31,000 learning experiences facilitated last school year alone
“This event is not only about celebrating the achievements of our laureates, but about investing in the next generation of leaders,” said Gallant. “We are grateful to the Flanagan family and our generous sponsors for making this event such a success.”

Flanagan Family receiving awards
Photo Credit: by Sean Lyn
Pictured L to R: Rick Flanagan, Murray Flanagan, Dee Flanagan, Karen Gallant, Dan Flanagan, and Jeff Flanagan

Sponsors of the 2025 Gala included:
  • Innovate Sponsor: Canadian Western Bank (CWB Financial Group)
  • Incubate Sponsors: Libro Credit Union, PEER Group, CIVA Communications, Next Dimension and Luxnglow Premium Products
  • Wine Sponsor: Little Mushroom Catering & Dining Lounge
  • Community Partner: Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce
  • Venture Sponsors: CIBC, WHITNEY & Company Realty Ltd.
  • Decor Sponsor – Sugar Bloom Floral, Award Sponsor – Nothers the Award Store, Photography Sponsor – by Sean Lyn
We’re also grateful for many individual and corporate supporters of the silent auction and Legacy Leaders Challenge.  The Legacy Leaders Challenge, launched this year, recognized top contributors from among former Laureates. Special thanks were extended to Mike Kropp & Robert Harris (PEER Group), Stephanie Soulis (Little Mushroom Catering), and John Whitney (WHITNEY & Company Realty Ltd.) for their outstanding support.
New for 2025, JA South Western Ontario announced the Innovator Award, which will debut at next year’s gala. This new honour will recognize entrepreneurs who are changing the local landscape and are a promoter of change and innovation in search of the greater good.
Nominate the Next Laureate
Nominations for both the Entrepreneur Hall of Fame and the new Innovator Award are now open. Visit jaswo.org/ehof to submit a nomination or to learn more about JA’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.

Larry’s Legacy

22 May 2025
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As I sat at the kitchen table of his sister, Shelley, it took only minutes to learn two things: Larry was dearly missed 17 years after his death and Chatham had lost an incredible person. He was one of those people I instantly wished I had known but somehow felt like I did. “Every child should have the right to be successful.” This is just one of many things that Larry Babcock believed. 

It was evident in the community support he provided to Chatham and his never ending, “do your best and love what you do” reminder to his four children.

“Larry would never tell you what to do,” says Shelley. “He would give you options and help you see them both. Regardless of the outcome, he was always supportive.”

Raised in a family of 4 children, Larry learned community responsibility from his parents, Win and Ross.  His father worked for Chatham Hydro and his mother stayed at home until Ross’ passing in 1964.  When his dad died, the Chatham Hydro community stepped in to help out. His father Ross had spent countless hours volunteering in the athletic community. 

It was that type of belief that Larry carried on into his own life.  Larry, along with his wife Dot, moved back to Chatham in 1969.  Here they raised their children Alexandra, Whitney, Courtney and Blair.  Together they instilled the importance of giving back to the community with their actions. Larry was a family law and real estate lawyer in Chatham from 1969 until his untimely passing in 2007. While he was practicing law, there were client bills that went unpaid and were never collected. If someone could not pay their bill, Larry knew there was a reason, and offered his service rather than add to their struggle.

Larry was a down to earth, generous person. He often could be seen riding his bike to work. He once received a new bike as a gift and one day it went missing. Larry went back to riding his old bike, believing that person needed his new one more than he did. 

Daughter, Courtney, who is an Olympian and third generation inductee in the Chatham Kent Sports Hall of Fame says of her father, “Our dad was always there with a smile and a hug whether we came in first or last.” 

In 2006, at the age of 66, Larry was diagnosed with a glioblastoma, and he died in October of 2007. After his passing, his family created the Larry Babcock Memorial Fund through the Chatham-Kent Community Foundation. One of the three charities supported by his legacy is Junior Achievement South Western Ontario.  JA’s mission is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. This aligns with Larry’s belief that every young person should be given an opportunity to be successful in life.   

For more than 15 years, JA South Western Ontario has been able to provide learning experiences to students in Chatham-Kent thanks to the generosity of the Larry Babcock Memorial Fund.  Students learn financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship lessons that will enable them to be successful community and business leaders like Larry. 

Annually, the fund disburses about $1000 to JA. The fund is open so that donations can be made at any time in Larry’s name.   

As JA South Western Ontario launches its Legacy Giving Program, it is our hope that sharing Larry’s story will remind people: 

  • Larry was an amazing individual who made such a difference to his community and his family every day 
  • Everyone can leave a lasting legacy, either directly through a gift in their will to a charity or indirectly by creating a Memorial Fund, like the Larry Babcock Memorial fund. 
  • Any amount can make a difference.  And if not a financial donation, volunteering with JA South Western Ontario can make huge impact on local youth. 

Alexander Hamilton believed that a legacy is planting seeds in a garden you never get to see. The garden that grows in Larry Babcock’s name is beautiful and bright, like the minds of the students that benefit from it. 

 Will you be the next to plant a seed? 

Heather J. Scott, CFRE
Director, Philanthropy
JA South Western Ontario

Larry’s induction into the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. From left to right: Miles Key, Courtney Babcock, Whitney Babcock, Rob Hitchcock, Alexandra Babcock, Blair Babcock, Christy Babcock

We’re Hiring! Director, Philanthropy

20 May 2025
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Categories: Careers, News

Job Opportunity –

Director, Philanthropy, Full Time
Salary range: $65,000-$80,000 (annual)

JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business. Through the delivery of hands-on, experiential learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness, JA empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their money, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara.

Role Summary

As Director, Philanthropy, you will:

  • Shape and lead a high-performing resource development strategy aligned with JA’s bold mission and strategic plan.
  • Build and steward a robust portfolio of corporate, foundation, and individual partners, driving sustainable revenue growth.
  • Deliver compelling signature fundraising events that strengthen community engagement and elevate our brand.
  • Champion a culture of philanthropy across the organization, while leading and developing a collaborative fundraising team.

This role collaborates closely with the President and CEO, the Director, Programs & Operations and the Director, Marketing & Communications

Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Fundraising Innovation

  • Design and execute an integrated fund development strategy to grow both restricted and unrestricted revenue.
  • Set and achieve ambitious annual and multi-year revenue targets across key streams: major gifts, sponsorships, grants, and events.
  • Lead the planning and success of marquee events such as the London & District Business Hall of Fame and Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.
  • Build data-informed strategies to deepen donor engagement and long-term loyalty.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Develop and manage a dynamic pipeline of prospective donors and partners, with a focus on strategic alignment and mutual impact.
  • Lead on high-value cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities with top funders and corporate sponsors.
  • Translate program outcomes into compelling, donor-centric narratives that inspire investment and long-term commitment.
  • Build cross-functional internal alignment between programming, marketing, and philanthropy to maximize donor satisfaction and retention.

Team Leadership and Operational Excellence

  • Recruit, coach, and lead a mission-driven development team, promoting a high-performance, values-based culture.
  • Oversee departmental operations, including budgeting, forecasting, CRM management (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge), and performance reporting.
  • Establish and track success metrics for all fundraising channels and donor segments.
  • Ensure compliance, transparency, and integrity in all donor agreements and fund allocations.

Executive Collaboration and Sector Leadership

  • Serve as a strategic advisor to the President & CEO, contributing to executive decision-making, risk mitigation, and organizational planning.
  • Actively represent JA South Western Ontario at stakeholder meetings, community events, and in national philanthropic initiatives as appropriate.
  • Strengthen JA’s visibility and credibility among key audiences, including business leaders, philanthropists, and public sector partners.

What You Bring

  • 8–10+ years of progressive fundraising experience, with a strong record of securing five- and six-figure gifts and partnerships.
  • Strategic mindset with the ability to connect fundraising goals to mission impact.
  • Demonstrated success in major gift cultivation, grant writing, sponsorship development, and fundraising event leadership.
  • Proven experience leading high-functioning teams and managing cross-sector partnerships.
  • Excellent communication, storytelling, and presentation skills.
  • Proficiency with fundraising CRM systems (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge preferred).
  • Post-secondary education required; CFRE designation or progress toward completion is considered an asset.
  • Knowledge of the Southwestern Ontario philanthropic and corporate landscape is a strong advantage.
  • Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle required; regional travel is expected.
  • Adaptability to a hybrid work environment with access to a quiet home office setup

This full-time position (40.0 hours per week) is available immediately with regular business hours and some evenings/ weekends. This is a hybrid role; the successful candidate will be required to work at either our London or Waterloo office. Travel throughout southwestern Ontario will be required to meet with donors and other stakeholders. The successful candidate must have a suitable quiet environment from which to work, with a desk and reliable and secure internet access. A laptop will be provided. The position reports to the President & CEO.

The successful candidate must undergo a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.

JA South Western Ontario is an equal opportunity employer. JA SWO will not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, disability, age (18 and over), record of offenses for which a pardon has been granted, marital status (including same sex partners), family status, or any other grounds prohibited by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by email to kgallant@jaswo.org by July 11, 2025. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

May 15, 2025

Meet a JA Volunteer: John Zondo

2 May 2025
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JOHN ZONDO

In-Class Volunteer (since 2023)
JA Economics for Success

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself
 
A: I’m a Portfolio Manager and Registered Investment Advisor working at The RaeLipskie Partnership in the Waterloo region. I’ve been working in the finance industry since 2015 and have my Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, a Master of Financial Economics degree from Western University, as well as a Bachelor of Mathematics degree from the University of Waterloo. I am also a member of the KW Optimist Club. I live in Waterloo with my wife Anna and our dog Luna (husky). I enjoy cycling, golf, curling, and dragon boating.
 
Q: What are some highlights or memorable accomplishments of your time with JA? 
 
A: Completing my first JA program was a big accomplishment for me. I delivered the program alone, so being able to spend a full day presenting material and speaking to a class of students seemed like a daunting task leading up to the day. But it went very well (despite some minor technical glitches I managed to work around) and I had a great time. This inspired me to continue volunteering with JA and I’ve delivered the EFS program several times since.

I am always particularly amazed by the intrigue of the students in the questions they ask and their thought process/reasoning. In one program I delivered, we spend a large chunk of time just discussing taxation because the class had so many questions about the “fairness” of paying taxes. Each visit and class of students is a very unique experience.

 
Q: How has your JA experience impacted your life and/or contributed to your success?
 
A: I would say overall it provides me a large sense of fulfillment and enjoyment. You can really see the students absorbing the information and forming questions as you progress through the session. These types of programs weren’t readily available when I was in school, so it’s great to be able to provide the students with crucial financial literacy knowledge.
 
Q: What advice do you have for someone thinking about volunteering with JA?
 
A: Definitely sign up to help deliver a program! It’s hard to fully grasp the experience until you’ve tried it out, but once you do, I think you’ll be hooked. JA does mass volunteer days where a bunch of volunteers go to the same school to deliver programs in the various classes. This is a great opportunity to meet other volunteers as well.
 
Q: Do you have any advice for students in high school right now? Anything you wish you knew when you were in school?
 
A: Don’t worry if you are not sure what career you want to have right now. Many people, myself included, change their area of interest multiple times over the course of their life. You are never stuck in one path if you focus on working hard, getting a good education, and gaining exposure to a variety of fields. This will create a strong foundation so that you can adjust as life unfolds.
 
 
 

Interview from the C-Suite: Rebecca Schoenhardt

23 April 2025
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Categories: News, The Spark

Briefly describe your work journey that led to where you are today?

Banking is my second career – I used to be a professional horse back rider and coach!

In equestrian sport, I loved helping people grow in the sport and achieve goals whether it be by training, or at times, navigating the sale/purchase of horse.  After a time, I realized I needed a job where a “bad day at the office” didn’t involve a concussion.

So after some great conversations with my clients, I saw a path forward and went back to school for an MBA in finance.  At the bank I learned that those things that I loved in sport were the same things I loved in financial services: helping people grow and achieve goals, whether that be for a business owner or an individual. Plus I get to help my own team grow in their capabilities and career goals while helping others, so it’s been super fulfilling.

Knowing JA’s three pillars of financial health, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, how do you think being involved in JA learning experiences in your own schooling would have made a difference in your career?

Absolutely! Had I understood more about personal finances from a younger age, it would have been much, much, MUCH easier setting up my own business in my 20’s.  It’s nicer to learn in school than from the school of hard knocks!

What do you think has been the key to your success?

I try to lean into curiosity.  How can we help this business?  What’s really important to this team member?  How can we do better?

If you could do one thing differently in your career, what would it have been and why?

I would have been kinder to myself.  Perfectionism is not a sustainable path, and offering yourself some of the same grace that you offer others around you is an important type of self-care.

What advice would you give young people starting out in business (your industry or any other)?

Remember that soft skills are just as important as hard skills; doing a good job is important, but doing that while making others around you feel good is even better!  And early in your career, particularly in banking, is the best time to explore lateral paths; not every step needs to be a promotion.  Lean into curiosity to build a broad experiential base so as to identify exactly what gives you joy in the workplace, and then you can pursue it at a higher level in time.

What do you think a young person’s biggest opportunity is at this time?

The world’s your oyster!  AI has the potential to bring about huge changes in the economy in a short time, so why not explore how that changes opportunities in any field that you love?  Regardless of computer changes, people will still need places to live, electricity and water, so the trades represent a pretty neat path to entrepreneurship too.

What do you think the biggest obstacle is for a young person today? How could they overcome this?

I think it’s challenging for a young person to decide what they would like to pursue, regardless of era.  To help, think about what you like to do for fun, and how it might translate into responsibilities or work-patterns in a career.  Do you like to work solo, or in a team? Do you like to work on processes or relationships?  It’s hard to listen to your inner voice at times, so ask it some great questions to help find your path forward. 

What is one goal you have set for yourself that you have not yet achieved? What has prevented you from achieving it?

When I was younger, I wanted to go to the Olympics.  And while I have closed that window as an athlete, maybe I could explore it as a judge in the sport.  I’ve not pursued a higher judging designation because I’m having too much fun doing other things at the moment.

What is your biggest passion in life, outside of work?

I love classical music, the opera, and going to the Stratford Festival.  And I spend a great deal of time with family, friends, gardening, golfing, and judging horse shows.  

What three words would your family use to describe you? Are those three words the same or different that your employees would use? If different, what would your employees say?

My family would say I’m cheeky, ambitious, and clever… but not always in a good way 😉

I think my employees would say I’m energetic, competitive, and I hope, kind.   

If a young person reads this interview, what do you want them to take away from it?

Go for it!  When you don’t know exactly which direction to go, choose any direction and you’ll be right.  And if down that path it doesn’t feel good, then you can choose another.

Who has been your greatest inspiration/role model/mentor? Why? What did they teach you?

I’ve had so many mentors and role models in my life – I think of it like a board of directors!  From my parents I learned how important entrepreneurial drive is in business, but also how important it is to help your neighbours and community.

What is your earliest memory of philanthropy? Why do you believe being philanthropic is important personally and/or in your business?

As a child I remember volunteering in a soup kitchen with members of our church.  It was a vivid lesson as it was the first time I saw a different world from my own, how other lives were shaped, and to see that we have a duty to share with each other.

What is it about JA’s mission that makes you choose to support its efforts?

I’m drawn to JA’s support and encouragement of the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.  It’s an inspiration to see firsthand the energy and creativity that they’re bringing to bear to make Canada and the world a better place.

We’re Hiring! Education Program Coordinator – Kitchener (16-week Contract) 

17 April 2025
jaswo
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Categories: Careers, News

Job Opportunity –

Education Program Coordinator – Kitchener 
(16-week Contract; 35 hours/week; May – August 2025)

JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business.  Through the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness, JA empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their earnings, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara.

The JA Education Program Coordinator will play a key role in the planning and execution of JA’s entrepreneurship summer camp activities and will also assist in the coordination and execution of other JA in-school programs and events. In May and June, the individual will work directly with JA’s full-time Program Management staff to plan and prepare all necessary components for 4 week-long summer day camps to take place during July and August and will also be called upon to support other JA program activities and events. In July and August, the Education Program Coordinator will take a lead role in the execution of JA’s summer camp program – JA Camp StartUp, which involves campers, ages 8-13, in creating and managing their own small business for a week.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Assisting full-time JA Program Management staff with:  
  • Scheduling field trip type activities (ex. Corporate tours) and sales day locations for summer camps 
  • Reviewing and revising summer camp curriculum documents and resources 
  • Liaising with parents, vendors, and other summer camp partners 
  • Scheduling and training volunteer leaders-in-training for summer camps 
  • Ensuring all resources are in place for successful summer camps 
  • Supervising, facilitating, and participating in camp program activities with campers 8-13 years old 
  • Providing leadership for JA Camp StartUp camp counsellors (2) 
  • Training and supporting summer camp counsellors and volunteer leaders-in-training 
  • Working in cooperation with other Camp Counsellors to ensure campers are safe, while maintaining adequate health and hygiene measures 
  • Building relationships with campers by demonstrating compassion, empathy, and understanding 
  • Assisting with camp set up and tear down activities, such as light cleaning, room preparation, organizing supplies/ materials, etc. 
  • Supporting other JA program events and activities (ex. coordinating and/or facilitating in-school programs and supporting online events) 
  • Other duties as assigned 

Skills/Qualifications

  • Ability to work well with children and parents 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with parents, other Camp Staff, and campers 
  • Ability to motivate others in learning new skills 
  • Ability to demonstrate responsible, ethical, and professional conduct 
  • Ability to provide support and instruction to others 
  • Experience in education or in working with children is an asset 
  • Driver’s License and access to a vehicle is an asset 

This contract position (35.0 hours per week) is funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program. Pay is set at $17.65/hour. You must be between 15 and 30 and be legally entitled to work in Canada to apply. The successful candidate must be available to work 8:30 – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday from May 5 to August 22, 2025. Some work from home will be possible during May/ June, however you may be required at various school or other locations in the Kitchener-Waterloo area for programs or other events. On-site work will be required during JA Camp StartUp weeks in July and August at the camp location – Church of the Good Sheppard, 116 Queen Street N, Kitchener. 

JA South Western Ontario is committed to a diverse, inclusive, equitable and accessible environment where differences are valued and respected in all areas of our business.  We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.  JA South Western Ontario will not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, disability, age (18 and over), record of offenses for which a pardon has been granted, marital status (including same sex partners), family status, or any other grounds prohibited by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Are you ready to be a JA Education Program Counsellor? Please email your Resume and Cover Letter to John Wilson at jwilson@jaswo.org. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.  

April 17, 2025

IN THE NEWS: Flanagan Family of Flanagan Foodservice to be Inducted into Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame

12 February 2025
jaswo
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Categories: News

Flanagan Family of Flanagan Foodservice to be Inducted into Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame

Kitchener, ON – February 12, 2025 – The Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame is proud to announce that the Flanagan family (Joe, Dee, Rick, Dan, Jeff and Murray) of Flanagan Foodservice, will be honoured as this year’s Laureates. These visionary leaders have made a lasting impact on the business community through their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and dedication to creating positive change in Waterloo Region and beyond.

The gala celebration and induction ceremony will take place on May 13th, 2025 at 5PM in the Embassy Room at Bingeman’s Conference Centre.
For almost five decades, the Flanagan family has been a cornerstone of Waterloo Region’s business community. Flanagan Foodservice was founded by Joe, who is being honoured posthumously, and Dee Flanagan in 1977, and has grown from a small retail location into Canada’s largest Canadian-owned foodservice distributor.

The founders’ vision of providing exceptional service was carried forward by their four sons, who took leadership roles in the 1980s and 1990s. The family’s commitment to reinvestment led to expansion across Ontario and Atlantic Canada, with the company achieving revenue growth every year for 47 years. Through this growth, they maintained a workplace culture emphasizing respect and customer service.

In 2018, the family established a charitable foundation run by three generations of Flanagans, giving back to their community. Today, Flanagan Foodservice stands as a testament to family values, innovation, and industry leadership.

The 2025 Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame Gala will celebrate this family of outstanding leaders for their vision, leadership, and commitment to fostering growth and innovation. Funds raised will be in support of Junior Achievement South Western Ontario, bringing relevant hands-on learning to local students to help them achieve their boundless potential.

CWB Financial Group is taking a leadership role in supporting JA through this year’s event as the Innovate Sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

Tickets will be on sale the week of February 17th, 2025. More information on the event and the 2025 Laureates is available at jaswo.org/ehof.