One Day, Lasting Lessons: Volunteering with Junior Achievement of Sacramento

In September, I spent a day with a third-grade class at Dry Creek Elementary School, part of the Twin Rivers school district, as a volunteer with Junior Achievement of Sacramento’s JA In-A-Day program. It was my second time volunteering and, once again, I was struck by how much connection and learning can happen in just a few hours.

Making Money Make Sense

I am currently halfway through earning my MBA at Sacramento State University, and throughout my business school experience, my appreciation for financial literacy has grown. I was pleased to be able to donate my time to support students’ early exposure to financial literacy and entrepreneurship education.

Our class explored how money moves through a city. Students learned about goods and services, the difference between wants and needs, and the choices we make when we earn, spend, and save. They followed a $20 bill as it moved from a dog walker to a hair salon, a movie theater, and a restaurant. They then created restaurants of their own, choosing the name, menu, prices, and staff.

Helping the students learn about restaurant entrepreneurship was especially meaningful to me because of my background in hospitality management. I never expected to draw on that experience while teaching financial literacy lesson, and it gave me a familiar way to connect with the students. Although I don't have a background in finance or education, I was still able to share what I have learned through my work and life.

I hope that, after a day filled with new information, the students might see their own city a little differently: the businesses, the workers, and the goods and services they encounter every day.

A Teacher's Lesson That Stayed with Me

The classroom teacher had already created a small economy for her students. They could earn pretend dollars for completing homework, following classroom agreements, and attending class. The students were encouraged to save their money, which could be later used to purchase rewards such as a special pencil or lunch with the teacher.

"Being a student is their job,” the teacher told me. “They deserve to be recognized for showing up."

Her words stayed with me. The activity gave students a chance to practice making choices with money while recognizing the effort they bring to school each day. I left with an even deeper appreciation for the care and creativity teachers put into helping students learn.

Your Experience Has Something to Offer

One of the things I value most about JA In-A-Day is that you don't need to be an educator to contribute meaningfully. I was able to share what I've learned through my work and life, follow a thoughtfully prepared lesson, and be present as students tried something new.

The experience reminded me that we all have something to offer. I hope the students left seeing the businesses, workers, and services in their community a little differently. I know I left with an even greater appreciation for Junior Achievement's work, and I look forward to volunteering again.

If you’re curious about making a difference in a classroom, learn more about volunteering or ways to contribute with Junior Achievement of Sacramento visit sacramento.ja.org.