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 Rob Bannister’s Q&A with JA below!
Rob Bannister, Managing Director, EY
JA: How have you volunteered with JA and what compelled you to do so?
Rob: As a finance professional, I understand that the financial decisions made as a young adult can have ramifications later in life on one’s ability to achieve his or her dreams. By volunteering at the JA Finance Park Prince George’s County, I can help our community’s young adults make better financial decisions by equipping them with the skills they need before they are confronted with choices.
JA: What is the biggest personal benefit you receive as a JA volunteer?
Rob: I’m not just shaking my head when I read about crushing student loan and consumer debt, home foreclosures, and seniors living in poverty. I’m doing something about it by helping the next generation make better financial decisions.
JA: What is your favorite JA memory?
Rob: An eighth grader once told me at the end of the day that she learned a lot from me. If sharing what I have learned can help put a young person on a path to a more successful financial life, that is time well spent.
JA: What do you wish more people knew about JA or what would you tell someone that is thinking about volunteering with JA?
Rob: You don’t need to be a personal finance expert to volunteer with JA. Life experience alone will enable you to make a meaningful contribution.
JA: What advice would you give to the next generation?
Rob: Our culture rewards conspicuous consumption. If you want to be counter-culture, save and invest! Living within one’s means is something to be proud of.
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.
