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 Ola Ismail’s Q&A with JA below!
Ola Ismail
JA: How have you volunteered with JA and what compelled you to do so?
Ola: I was first introduced to JA back in 2009 by my employer back then, HSBC bank, Egypt. JA operates in Cairo under the name of Injaz. I had a great experience teaching the “More than Money” program in Arabic in public schools.
In 2014, I contacted JA in Fairfax to sign-up as a volunteer and I enjoyed teaching several elementary JA in a Day programs at Fairfax County Public Schools. In 2017, as part of my capacity as a PTO Board member, I introduced JA to my kids International Private School, KAA.
JA: What is the biggest personal benefit you receive as a JA volunteer?
Ola: It feels great to make a difference in the lives of youth in my community.
JA: What is your favorite JA memory?
Ola: Every time I volunteer is a great memory for me. I always love the students thank you cards and like when they greet me at the end of the day asking me about my next visit to their classroom.
JA: What do you wish more people knew about JA or what would you tell someone that is thinking about volunteering with JA?
Ola: I would like to raise more awareness in my community about the importance of the program and to educate professional adults about the different ways to support and to volunteer. I plan to dedicate a short session in the PTO back to school night to be a presentation about JA.
JA: What advice would you give to the next generation?
Ola: Learning the basics of economy is a major step towards a successful life.
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.
