Junior Achievement of the Heartland is seeking community members to volunteer in local classrooms this spring, helping students build skills in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship.

This year marks Junior Achievement’s 70th anniversary, and volunteers continue to play a key role in the organization’s work—just as they have for decades. JA volunteers partner with teachers to deliver engaging, hands-on lessons that connect classroom learning to real-life experiences and help students see what’s possible for their future.

“Volunteers bring our lessons to life,” said Lysa Hegland, President & CEO, JA of the Heartland. “When students hear directly from people in their community, learning becomes more meaningful and more memorable.”
According to the 2026 JA Alumni Report, a strong majority of JA alumni say their experience positively impacted their development of durable, transferable skills. 91% report improved collaboration, motivation for lifelong learning, and stronger critical thinking skills.

No teaching experience is required to volunteer. Junior Achievement provides all training, lesson plans, and materials. Programs are offered in classrooms across JA’s 24 county footprint.

With just a few hours in the classroom, Junior Achievement volunteers can make a meaningful difference by helping students discover new possibilities, gain confidence, and imagine futures they may not have thought possible.

Follow this link to find classrooms needing volunteers in your community: Open Class List
For more information on being a classroom volunteer contact Haley Dohrmann at haley.dohrmann@ja.org or 309-277-3905.