Junior Achievement of Sacramento is more than an educational program — it’s a movement empowering the next generation to dream beyond their circumstances by creating pathways for youth to achieve independence and success.

Since its founding in 1961, JA Sacramento has equipped more than 350,000 young people with essential skills in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship. With expanded delivery options, including in-person, virtual, self-directed and teacher- or volunteer-led programs, the organization ensures that all students across its 14-county reach can benefit, regardless of location.

In 2024, California passed Assembly Bill 2927, mandating a full-semester personal finance course as a graduation requirement by the 2030–2031 school year. Junior Achievement is a proven partner in fulfilling this mandate. The JA Financial Literacy course directly addresses the core competencies outlined in AB 2927, ensuring students gain essential knowledge in budgeting, saving, credit and investing. Educators are provided with ready-to-implement resources and curriculum, making financial literacy accessible and impactful in every classroom.

“Through our robust curriculum, hands-on experiential learning and mentorship from business leaders, we will equip even more students with the knowledge and skills for lifelong success,” says Susan Nelson, president, JA Sacramento.

“Through our robust curriculum, hands-on experiential learning and mentorship from business leaders, we will equip even more students with the knowledge and skills for lifelong success.” -Susan Nelson, President, JA Sacramento

Community support is vital to JA Sacramento’s endeavors. “We couldn’t do what we do without the support we receive from the community,” Nelson says. “Our longtime supporter, Bank of Marin, is a true champion of youth empowerment, supporting Junior Achievement through funding, event sponsorship, classroom volunteering and board leadership, helping to shape a brighter future for the next generation.”

“We believe that doing our part to build a stronger community for all is essential to our collective success,” says Nicole Skeffington, community engagement manager, Bank of Marin.

Anyone and everyone can make an impact. “There are so many ways to make a difference, from volunteering in classrooms, contributing to program grants, participating in the Big Day of Giving or taking part in signature events like PlayForeJA,” says Nelson.