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 Tarsha Cary’s Q&A with JA below!
Tarsha Cary
JA: How have you volunteered with JA and what compelled you to do so?
Tarsha: I volunteered as a community volunteer. My first time was with Nicholas Orem Middle School, where my daughter, Shanel Deal, is an 8th grade math teacher. I enjoyed my experience with the students and the care/compassion on the JA staff so that I decided to volunteer two more times - Drew Freeman and Andrew Jackson Middle Schools.
JA: What is the biggest personal benefit you receive as a JA volunteer?
Tarsha: I love to see all financial aspects coming together for the students. They increase their understanding of finances, savings, and decision making through every stage of life (from first/summer jobs, whether to advance their education, career choices, spending habits and thoughts of the future). They leave JA Finance Park with more insights of the sacrifices their parents make, lessons the teachers convey, and choices that they must take seriously using ample time to process.
JA: What is your favorite JA memory?
Tarsha: One student wanted to shop for clothes so badly that he bought a belt for $7. He encountered that he had to adjust his budget/spending based on needs versus wants and prioritization. He had no funds remaining. He said I cannot believe I got a belt with no pants for the belt. The expression on his face and his voice of disbelief still make me laugh as I remember the situation.
JA: What do you wish more people knew about JA or what would you tell someone that is thinking about volunteering with JA?
Tarsha: Definitely volunteer. Help our students learn about financial literacy. Invest in them so we can have stronger futures with financial sustainability. JA Finance Park is an exemplary community initiative in which all of us can be a part and be proud.
JA: What advice would you give to the next generation?
Tarsha: Self-control and planning are key ingredients to financial freedom and enjoying prosperous life no matter your income level.
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.
