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.

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.

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 23^rd 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.

We had a wonderful evening in Hamilton last Thursday discussing ways to grow Junior Achievement’s presence in the community to impact more youth. Thanks to all who came out to share their inspiring ideas – plus Hamilton Hyundai for hosting, Jonny Blonde Foodtruck & Catering for the delicious food, and Greening Media for capturing it all on film!

View the video.

Enjoy some photos.

Let us know how you’d like to be involved in building a bright future for Hamilton youth by contacting us at info@jaswo.org.

Guest host Kyle Horner is joined by Karen Gallant, CEO of JA South Western Ontario to talk about the foundation and the benefit it has for students. 

We’re celebrating our Volunteers for National Volunteer Week and we could not be more proud to do so. Our Volunteers make the difference in bringing relevant hands-on learning to thousands of students in our area. Thank you for your hard work and expertise!

Here are a few Volunteers sharing their JA Experience:

JA SWO NVW2023 – Volunteer Highlights

JA has an EXCITING new event opportunity for high school classes.

We are offering GRADE 9 – 12 students across Southwestern Ontario, the chance to participate in JA’s ‘Personal Finance’ program in a new a unique way! JA is offering a Hybrid Virtual LIVE event this semester that you won’t want to miss out on!  .

Each session of the ‘Personal Finance’ live event will be delivered by virtual volunteers. Your class can sign into one of the LIVE sessions that best coordinates with your class time. You will have access to the recordings of the additional sessions to complete the full program with your students.

Register Now or Learn more.

Junior Achievement hosts 31st Annual London and District Business Hall of Fame Gala honouring laureates Karen Fryday-Field and Joel McLean

THE 31st ANNUAL London and District Hall of Fame Gala will take place tonight from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This year’s gala celebrates the achievements of two exceptional role models: Karen Fryday-Field, managing partner of Meridian Edge Leadership and Governance Consulting Group, and Joel McLean, founder of Info-Tech Research Group.

Set to celebrate