Cinnaire actively supports organizations that empower the next generation and foster economic success. Junior Achievement (JA) is a global youth-serving organization that plays a vital role in preparing young people for future job opportunities. By providing innovative and hands-on learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship, JA paves the way for employability and job creation. Cinnaire proudly serves as Inclusion Sponsor, helping to advance JA’s work in the Mid-Michigan region.
Cinnaire staff actively participate in JA programs, dedicating their time and skills to inspire and prepare young individuals for success in the global economy. The JA Career Speaker Series is an initiative where volunteer guest speakers visit classrooms to share valuable insights about their career journeys and educational experiences. These events are designed to support the JA Work and Career Readiness Pathway, which offers high school students an immersive and comprehensive learning experience centered around the workplace. During these speaker sessions, students have the opportunity to learn from professionals across various industries, gaining valuable knowledge about different career paths and the skills required for success. The speakers provide firsthand accounts of their work, offering unique perspectives and practical advice to inspire and guide the students. Our team, including Mary Manuel, Brittany Rugg, Ryan Brand and Kristin Bolan, had a wonderful experience participating in a recent speaker series, where they had the opportunity to connect with students, engage in meaningful discussions, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Katlynn Kretz and Andrea Bailey recently contributed to the JA of Mid-Michigan Girls’ Dream Fair, an event that introduced middle school students to STEM careers by featuring influential women leaders in the Lansing area. The event included TED-style talks from inspirational women, followed by mentors utilizing the JA It’s My Future curriculum to encourage students to explore their own potential and consider pursuing careers in STEM.
More than two hundred 7th and 8th grade students attended the JA Girls’ Dream Fair, with 100% of attendees sharing they would participate again and 90% stating after this experience they expect to go to colleg