JA is Reaching More Young People Than Ever Before
The 2025 YouthForce NOLA + JA Career Expo at the UNO Lakefront Arena
Last year, Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans reached 40,080 students across Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi—more young people than ever before in our 70-year history. Through 1,248 total learning experiences and 344,378 contact hours, we delivered programs that do more than teach skills—they inspire ambition, build confidence, and prepare students for the future they deserve.
Our impact spanned every corner of our mission:
Career Readiness: Thousands of students met employers, explored career pathways, and honed their skills at JA’s Future Connect events and career expos in St. John the Baptist Parish (in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Saint John) and Orleans Parish (in partnership with YouthForce NOLA). Mock interviews, industry panels, and hands-on activities gave them a clearer vision of their futures.
Career Exploration at Ochsner Health
Entrepreneurship: The Trust Your Crazy Ideas Challenge nurtured creativity and business planning skills in high school students, while the inaugural JA StartUP cohort provided mentorship, training, and seed funding to young adults (ages 18–25) already launching small businesses—from chefs to content creators.
Trust Your Crazy Ideas Challenge
Simulation-Based Learning: At JA BizTown and JA Finance Park, students stepped into real-world roles, managing budgets, making decisions, and experiencing the power of financial and civic responsibility.
JA BizTown State Farm Shop
Financial Literacy Education: In response to Louisiana’s new graduation requirement, JA developed and piloted a high school financial literacy course designed to give students practical, locally relevant skills for life after school.
Financial Literacy Panel
As we celebrate this record-breaking year, we’re already setting our sights on an even greater impact ahead. The 2025–2026 school year will bring more students, deeper learning experiences, and a milestone moment—our 1 millionth student served.
Together, we’re building a future where every student—no matter their background—can see their potential, seize opportunity, and take flight.