And That’s a Wrap on JA BizTown Summer Camp 2024!

Exploring the moments that made camp memorable and impactful to our community youth

Author: Samantha Burk
Community Involvement
Published: Monday, 08 Jul 2024

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Image caption: Campers making vision boards.

Indianapolis, IN—Junior Achievement of Central Indiana’s JA BizTown helps create unforgettable moments this summer through JA BizTown Summer Camp. The mission of Junior Achievement of Central Indiana (JACI) has always been to inspire young people to own their future success by providing them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the real world, and this mission is at the heart of what makes JA BizTown exceptional.

JA BizTown, located on North Keystone Avenue, has served the Central Indiana region through class field trips during the school year for decades, but the fun does not end when the school year does. In June, JACI hosted 194 students for JA BizTown Summer Camp. During JA BizTown Summer Camp, students learn about the importance of financial literacy and the role of an upstanding citizen by taking on jobs that teach them responsibility, time management, and teamwork. Throughout the week, campers participate in various activities, like learning to write checks, balance a budget, hear from motivational speakers, entrepreneurs, and professionals, and create a vision board—encouraging them to dream and prepare for their futures.

In addition, students are encouraged to embrace their creativity by exploring innovations or business experiences that interest them. Each year, students think about their daily lives and design something to help improve it, individually or as a group. We see a variety of exciting and innovative designs each summer, from utility dog leashes designed to hold everything a pet owner would need to edible ice cream wrappers. Students collaborate with other campers by sharing their innovative designs and receiving feedback.

In addition to hands-on learning activities, this special educational event also invites several notable guest speakers each year to inspire young campers and share their expertise. This year, JACI was proud to welcome eight first-class guest speakers and corporate partners:

The Secretary of State office's Money Wise program addresses important financial decisions and educates campers about financial scams and the importance of financial literacy in safeguarding their future.

First Internet Bank provides campers with practical knowledge about building networks and exploring career pathways, empowering them to confidently navigate the professional world.

Jon Mobley, whose magic show educates campers on the importance of entrepreneurship.

Nine13sports instructs students on the value of lifelong fitness and equitable exercise through stationary biking.

Marian University helps campers develop essential skills such as resiliency and problem-solving in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Donate Life discusses the importance of health and wellness.

Nicole Lewis and Shantel Lee empower students through their program, Mindful Credit, with engaging activities about the importance of maintaining good credit and to believe in themselves by practicing kindness toward their mental health and self-image.

Lastly, we cannot complete a recap of BizTown without acknowledging the work and support of FORVIS Mazars. FORVIS Mazars has been a consistent and proud supporter of JA's mission to inspire, engage, and empower young people to own their future success. On the last day of camp, FORVIS Mazars spoke about the delicate balance between profit and integrity. Through thought-provoking discussions on business ethics, campers gain a deeper understanding of the moral responsibilities inherent in entrepreneurship and the impact of ethical decision-making on long-term success.

Junior Achievement of Central Indiana is grateful to everyone, from partners and sponsors to the volunteers and staff, who ensured that this summer, like many others, was a time of change and growth for every camper who entered the building. To learn more and secure your campers' spot for next year, visit jaindy.org or email info@jaindy.org.

About Junior Achievement of Central Indiana

Junior Achievement of Central Indiana, Inc. (JACI), in partnership with the business and education communities, empowers young people to own their future success. JA educates and inspires young people in the areas of career exploration, employability/life skills, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and philanthropy through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for children in kindergarten through high school. www.jaindy.org