Carrying the Torch through Memphis: Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South
Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South empowers children from across our region to be engaged members of their communities so that they may lead independent lives. We talked with Mary Kanowitz, Senior Development Manager, to learn more about this non-profit’s impact on Memphis and the surrounding area.
Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South empowers children from across our region to be engaged members of their communities so that they may lead independent lives. We talked with Mary Kanowitz, Senior Development Manager, to learn more about this non-profit’s impact on Memphis and the surrounding area.
Carry the Torch through Memphis is a monthly series highlighting the great work of nonprofit organizations in Memphis. This article was written by team members at Campfire Collective in collaboration with I Love Memphis.
Tell us about Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. Why is the work you do important?
We serve 25,000 students each year in 71 counties across the region in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Our three core areas of focus are financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. The work we do is critical for both the students we serve and for our economy to thrive. As a testament to that, Junior Achievement graduates have a median household income that is 20% higher than the US median household income. More than 88% of our alums say they are satisfied with their careers compared to 49% of the general public. Also, JA alumni are 143% more likely to have started a business compared to the general public. In short, JA helps students achieve lives of choice and the careers of their dreams. We’re honored to be a part of making #EveryChildWorldReady.
How did Junior Achievement start?
Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South began teaching students practical, real-world skills in 1955. We are the community’s oldest organization dedicated to providing young people with the tools necessary to succeed in a global economy. Soon, we will celebrate 70 years of encouraging students to dream big! Learn more (or let us know if you’re an alum) at www.jamemphis.org.
Why is this organization located in Memphis?
Great question. The answer is two-fold because the students and our regional economy benefit from JA programs. JA students have a competitive edge by understanding how business works at a young age. They are better equipped to make decisions about their career journey and life path while leveraging their assets, talents, and dreams.
Our local economy also benefits by having a workforce with both the business savvy and the soft skills needed to lead and support our local communities throughout the Mid-South. This becomes increasingly important when we consider both large-scale employers and the continued drive for local entrepreneurship. While our flagship building is located in the heart of Memphis, our programs are delivered in 71 counties across the Mid-South region, as it is imperative that we take a regional approach to securing our future economic success.
How can Memphians get involved with Junior Achievement or volunteer?
We make it easy to support JA. Call us at 901-366-7800 or visit www.jamemphis.org. If you’re interested in giving, reach out to Mary Kanowitz at [email protected]. If you’re interested in volunteering, reach out to Tenela Blakney at [email protected].
What are some big events or fundraisers that your organization has annually, and how can people contribute?
So glad you asked! We have our JA “Bowlin’ on the River” Bowl-A-Thon in the spring and in the fall. It’s a great time to have a fun team-building activity while raising funds for our programs. Contact Mary Kanowitz at [email protected] or visit www.bowlathon.com for details.
Other events to look out for this year include our second annual Passport to Opportunity event and we’re bringing back the Stock Market Challenge which many of our alumni may remember from their years in JA. Speaking of alums, we are celebrating our 70th anniversary next year and would love to involve all alumni (students, teachers, administrators, volunteers, donors) in our fun activities. Visit www.jamemphis.org for more details.
Tell us about your organization’s dreams and goals for the students you serve ? What changes does your organization hope to see or bring about?
One of our taglines is “Where Dreams Take Flight!” and that’s our hope for all Junior Achievement students. Our programs aim to provide students with the knowledge, confidence and connections they need to achieve their life and career goals. One change we hope to see is for even more organizations and individuals to embrace a regional approach to our collective success.
Finally, tell us a little about you: How long have you been working with Junior Achievement? What's your favorite part about your job?
I am the Senior Development Manager for Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. I recently celebrated three years with the organization. My favorite part about my job is that I get to inspire the next generation to dream big! I can’t wait to see what these bright young minds achieve for our city, our region and our world. The possibilities are endless!
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