JA South Western Ontario has officially merged with JA Waterloo Region to form one strong and dynamic charter.
Formed in 1963 and 1970 respectively, the two organizations will now operate together as the amalgamated charter Junior Achievement of South Western Ontario.
The new charter’s geography includes the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara.
The two charters have been working closely together to deliver programs in a virtual format for over a year and plan to continue building on the success of the partnership moving forward.
“As difficult as things have been for everyone during the pandemic, we have seen many bright spots in the ways our staff, volunteers, and students have been innovating,” said Karen Gallant, President and CEO of JA South Western Ontario. “The team has done an incredible job at being resourceful with new ideas and efficiencies to bring essential JA education to as many students as possible. We’re excited to continue that work together as one robust organization.”
JA South Western Ontario will still be working locally in many ways. Funds raised in each region will stay within that region. Volunteers will be working directly with schools in their areas, and the three offices in Kitchener, London, and Chatham-Kent will be maintained with current staff.
“We could not be more pleased with this amalgamation,” said Murray Flanagan, Board Chair for JA Waterloo Region, who will be joining the Board of Directors for JA South Western Ontario. “Ultimately, our highest priority is to increase our student reach in every city and town across our region. This merging of resources allows us to streamline how we do the work so that we can continue to grow and deliver the JA difference to more students.”
Gallant added, “Connecting with youth about financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship is so important right now. We are inspiring the community builders of the future, which will be crucial in the years of economic recovery that may lie ahead.”
For more information about Junior Achievement South Western Ontario, please visit https://jaswo.org/
