HAPPY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK!
April 19-25 is National Volunteer Week, and there is no better time to pause and recognize the selfless contributions of our extraordinary JA Volunteers who inspire and motivate us every day.
Throughout the week, we’ll be featuring JA Volunteers who go above and beyond to connect students with the learning experiences they need for an inspired and successful future.
Read JA Volunteer Kevin Hrynkow’s Q&A with JA below!
Kevin Hrynkow
JA: How have you volunteered with JA and what compelled you to do so?
Kevin: I volunteer at JA Finance Park Fairfax County. As a retired federal auditor I’ve always placed a high value on being financially responsible and accountable. This program plants those vital seeds in these 8th graders so they can hopefully grow to have those same values.
JA: What is the biggest personal benefit you receive as a JA volunteer?
Kevin: I take great pride in being able to devote my time towards something that hopefully will help these young people to become better citizens and be self reliant.
JA: What is your favorite JA memory?
Kevin: I don’t really have just one favorite isolated memory…at the end of each session so many of the kids share their reflections expressing a genuine appreciation for what we do to help them prepare to be real responsible adults. One more “memory” is, again, not just one moment but the consistent positive energy and upbeat approach that each of the JA staff exude.
JA: What do you wish more people knew about JA or what would you tell someone that is thinking about volunteering with JA?
Kevin: I wish people knew what a high quality program is being offered to essentially every 8th grader in Fairfax County Public Schools and beyond. And that it’s presented in such a way that it doesn’t discriminate for or against any particular socioeconomic situation from where the kids come from.
JA: What advice would you give to the next generation?
Kevin: Try to follow the basic principles taught here—especially to pay yourself first (starting with your first paycheck) and never stop, and then to not spend more than they make. If they do this, so many of our social and economic ills may be diminished over time.
Interested in hearing more inspiring stories from our JA Volunteers? Check out more spotlights below.
To learn how you can get involved with or support JA, send us an inquiry.
