At no time in recent history has the need for financial literacy and economic education been more evident. With the media constantly relaying stories of home foreclosures and savings lost, we are quickly reminded of the risks of poor personal financial management. These issues touch people of all walks of life, but leave the financially uneducated the most vulnerable.

Junior Achievement continues to be at the forefront of the fight for financial literacy.  With over 90 years of experience, JA provides economic education for students of all economic levels through partnerships with educators and volunteers.

The proven result of JA programs is youth who have an increased understanding of our economic system - including the current financial crisis - and how to avoid making similar mistakes in the future.

JA of Chicago's goal for the 2009-2010 school year is to reach 390,000 Chicagoland students with our relevant economic education programs. We believe as a community, we can start inspiring tomorrow's leaders to make successful choices today.

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