JA of Western Massachusetts impacts thousands of young people each year‐ opening their minds to their potential and preparing them for life after graduation. As a member of JA USA, JA of Western MA is a part of the world’s largest organization dedicated to educating students K-12 about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs. Our age‐appropriate, academically challenging programs are offered to local schools and community groups free of charge because of the financial support we receive from hundreds of local businesses, individuals, and foundations, in addition to our Special Events. JA’s unique approach allows volunteers from the community to deliver our curriculum while sharing their experiences with students. Embodying the heart of JA, our more than 400 classroom volunteers transform the key concepts of our lessons into a message that inspires and empowers students to believe in themselves, showing them they can make a difference in the world.