Volunteer with JA
You can build a brighter future
Be a Game Changer
Make a meaningful impact on local youth while building your leadership, mentorship, and public speaking skills.
JA provides all the materials, training and support to make your experience both rewarding and fun!
New to JA?
Create your account here to start your JA volunteer journey!
Are you a current JA volunteer?
View and sign up for current volunteer opportunities
This is primarily for Volunteers who have previously delivered a JA program and are ready to sign up for their next opportunity.
Choose your adventure…
Program Facilitator
Visit a local elementary or high school classroom to facilitate a JA learning experience. We’ll get you set up with everything you need for a fun and engaging day!
4-6 hours
In-person
Career Mentor
Share your career journey with students in Grades 7-12 and inspire them as they plan their own future careers. Volunteers share stories, advice, and answer student questions.
1-4 hours
In-person or virtual
Company Program Mentor
Empower the next generation of entrepreneurs!
Volunteer mentors work in teams to guide high school students as they create and run their own business.
2-3 hours weekly for 18 weeks
Take our Volunteer Survey
Junior Achievement is powered by our volunteers. We’re hoping to get your FULL-CIRCLE FEEDBACK to continue building the best possible volunteer experience.
Steps to Volunteering
JA Staff are here to support you through every step of registration and onboarding.
- Complete a Volunteer Registration Form
Submit the form and JA staff will connect to guide you through next steps. - Choose the Volunteer Role(s) That Suit You
We’ll help match you with programs that fit your interests, skills, and availability. - Complete Our Volunteer Screening Protocol
Screening ensures a safe experience for all. Requirements vary by role. - Train and Prepare
Our training modules and materials set you up for success. - Sign Up for a Program Delivery
Get ready for a fun and impactful experience with students.
We are looking for volunteers who:
- Enjoy working with and mentoring young people
- Are comfortable presenting in an engaging way to a class or group of students
- Have a good command of the English language
- Are organized, committed, flexible, and patient
- Are willing to share their experience (Business knowledge is helpful, but not required)
Team Volunteering
We also welcome groups from companies and organizations seeking a meaningful employee engagement opportunity. JA can tailor a corporate delivery program to fit your goals and culture. Contact our Volunteer Manager Mandy Deelstra to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up to volunteer with JA?
Click HERE to sign up for an account on JA SWO’s Community Portal and complete the Volunteer Registration Form! Once you have registered, JA Staff will follow up to schedule a virtual interview and help determine the best fit for you and JA.
How do I decide which program is best suited for me?
Prior to registering as a volunteer with JA, review the programs we offer and make note of any that you are interested in. When you complete the online volunteer interest form, you will be connected with a JA Program Manager who will discuss the opportunities available with you and help determine which programs will be the best fit based on your interests, background knowledge and experience, and scheduling availability. If you are interested you may wish to become involved with more than one program or event!
What is the time commitment for a JA Volunteer?
Time commitments vary depending on the program you are volunteering with and your role. For example:
| Volunteer Role | Approximate Time Commitment |
| In-School Program Volunteer | 4-6 hours per session |
| World of Choices Career Mentor – virtual World of Choices Career Mentor – in-person | 30 minutes per session 2-3 hours (includes multiple sessions) |
| Company Program Mentor | 2-3 hours/week for 18 weeks |
Can I get involved in more than one program?
Yes! If you are interested in getting involved in more than one JA program type you can indicate this in your registration or reach out to your JA Program Manager who will be happy to help connect you with more JA opportunities.
How often am I expected to volunteer?
For our school-based programs, you can volunteer as often as you like or are able. There is no minimum expectation from JA, however we recommend volunteering with at least 2 classes per school year.
For the after-school Company Program, volunteers work in small teams and are expected to attend at least 80% of the 18 weekly team meetings. We ask you to communicate with your team and with JA when you can’t attend so that we can ensure students have the support and supervision required.
How do you schedule volunteers?
JA reaches out to our volunteers periodically as opportunities become available. If you express interest in a particular program, school or date, we’ll work with you and the teacher involved to coordinate. You can also view a list of upcoming volunteer opportunities and sign up for specific classes/events HERE.
What if I have more questions?
If you still have questions feel free to contact us.
Well worth the time! JA allows us to give back to the community in a safe, effective, educational manner.
– Hansen, JA Dollars with Sense Volunteer
