For Demario, volunteering with Junior Achievement of Greater Kansas City is all about mentorship and having fun with the students.
Last school year, he used his company’s paid volunteer time to give back by volunteering in JA BizTown presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union not once, but seven times. At first, he joined because his coworkers encouraged him. However, after that first experience, he continued to come back.
“It’s impactful to see the students take their roles seriously and show passion at such a young age,” Demario said. “Having these roles and this experience inspires them and lets them know they can do and be whatever they want.” 
JA BizTown provides students with early exposure to careers and life skills, helping them envision a future that feels within reach. For Demario, the opportunity for students to have an adult role model is one of the most important things.
“I like giving back to the next generation, and it’s grown into a passion in other aspects of my life,” he shared. Outside of Junior Achievement, Demario also enjoys working with the youth at his church. He knows the power of a consistent role model because he’s experienced it himself. “I can look at my own life. I have a mentor, he is only a few years older than me, but he has poured wisdom into me, and I wouldn’t be the man I am today without him in my life.”
That belief in mentorship fuels his time with JA. Volunteers serve as role models, offering students perspectives they may not hear anywhere else. “You can hear things from your parents, and it doesn’t resonate as hard. But hearing it from someone else can completely hit different and change your perspective… the effect of that can be limitless,” Demario explained.
Even without seeing the long-term impact of his volunteering, Demario knows the seeds he plants matter. Whether it’s helping a student navigate their role, encouraging them, or simply showing up with genuine excitement, his goal is simple: to let kids know someone believes in them. “I’m here. I’m excited to be here. And I’m rooting for you.”
Explore Junior Achievement of Greater Kansas City’s volunteer opportunities.