Tremaine | Junior Achievement of Greater Kansas City

“As a freshman at Northeast High School, my economics teacher utilized the JA curriculum. That opened my eyes to opportunities in the banking industry and helped me identify my career interests. I don’t believe I would be in the position I am today, both personally and professionally, if the Junior Achievement program was not available in my urban school district.”

“Motivated to give today’s students an experience like the one I had, I now volunteer with Junior Achievement – at the very same high school I attended, a school where students are challenged daily to survive the cycle of poverty.”

“I use my story to let the students know today is the starting point. I was saddened when one of the students shared a common belief throughout the halls of Northeast: ‘You don’t graduate from this school.’ Stereotypes and certain systems may discourage these young people, and some of these obstacles may cause them to think that achievement can’t be true. I continue to volunteer my time to inspire young people and help them see there is hope if they stay on the right path.”

“Junior Achievement established the foundation that I’m still building on today. It takes a community to help to build a community and I’m honored to be a part of the change.”