MEDIA RELEASE: JA South Western Ontario & JA Waterloo Region have joined forces
July 19, 2021 – London & Kitchener, ON. JA South Western Ontario has officially
merged with JA Waterloo Region to form one strong and dynamic charter.
Formed in 1963 and 1970 respectively, the two organizations will now operate together as the
amalgamated charter Junior Achievement of South Western Ontario. The new charter’s
geography includes the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford,
Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and
Niagara.
The two charters have been working closely together to deliver programs in a virtual format
for over a year and plan to continue building on the success of the partnership moving
forward.
“As difficult as things have been for everyone during the pandemic, we have seen many
bright spots in the ways our staff, volunteers, and students have been innovating,” said Karen
Gallant, President and CEO of JA South Western Ontario. “The team has done an incredible
job at being resourceful with new ideas and efficiencies to bring essential JA education to as
many students as possible. We’re excited to continue that work together as one robust
organization.”
JA South Western Ontario will still be working locally in many ways. Funds raised in each
region will stay within that region. Volunteers will be working directly with schools in their
areas, and the three offices in Kitchener, London, and Chatham-Kent will be maintained with
current staff.
“We could not be more pleased with this amalgamation,” said Murray Flanagan, Board Chair
for JA Waterloo Region, who will be joining the Board of Directors for JA South Western
Ontario. “Ultimately, our highest priority is to increase our student reach in every city and
town across our region. This merging of resources allows us to streamline how we do the
work so that we can continue to grow and deliver the JA difference to more students.”
jaswo.org
Gallant added, “Connecting with youth about financial literacy, work readiness, and
entrepreneurship is so important right now. We are inspiring the community builders of the
future, which will be crucial in the years of economic recovery that may lie ahead.”
JASWO Media Release – JA South Western Ontario and JA Waterloo Region amalgamating – FINAL
