Junior Achievement of Central Ontario receives $500,000 donation towards R.O.I. Campaign

Largest gift in organization's history highlights the value of programming

TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2012 /CNW/ - Presented at this morning's Annual General Meeting by Gary Reamey, Senior Partner at Edward Jones, and his wife, Joanne, Junior Achievement of Central Ontario (JACO) received their largest gift to date. The $500,000 donation will create the Gary and Joanne Reamey Family Endowment, which will benefit thousands of students in Central Ontario for years to come.  JACO delivers a variety of financial literacy, entrepreneurial and work readiness programs to some 65,000 students annually in the region, at no cost to students or school boards.

"We are extremely grateful to Gary and Joanne for their significant contribution to our organization," said Jane Eisbrenner, president and CEO of JACO. "Investments in JACO ensure that students receive critical financial management, workplace and entrepreneurial skills, while building their confidence and a brighter future for all. Our achievements are not possible without the continued support of both our donors and volunteers, so thank you Gary and Joanne!"

The Reamey's gift is part of JACO's recently launched R.O.I. Campaign, which aims to raise $2 million in support of JACO. Focused on 'Reach, Opportunity and Impact', funds raised will result in increased program deliveries by JACO to students in the Central Ontario region.

"Our family recognizes the significant impact Junior Achievement has on both students and the economy of Central Ontario," said Gary. "We believe we should do all we can to prepare our youth for the roles they will play in society. Considering this, we invest in JACO because of the positive impact their programs have on students, and because JACO truly shapes the youth of today into our leaders of tomorrow. We are thrilled to contribute to this cause."

Junior Achievement (JA) programs include Dollars with Sense and Economics for Success, which explore money management skills and teach financial literacy. According to the 2011 Impact Study, developed by The Boston Consulting Group, such programs make a substantial difference. Students who participate in JACO programs are more likely to graduate from high school and obtain a post-secondary education. The study also cites that JA returns $45 for every $1 invested and that Achievers on average earn more, save more, borrow less and are less likely to be on social assistance later in life.

The generous donation presented by the Reameys also precedes and calls attention to Financial Literacy Month. Financial Literacy Month is recognized by Canadians in November and reminds us of the need for standardized and formalized financial education in school curricula. More than ever before, having a solid understanding of finances and economics is a precursor to personal success. The substantial endowment presented by Gary and Joanne recognizes this need and proves that it is crucial for young people to understand basic money management, entrepreneurism and work readiness skills.

About Junior Achievement of Central Ontario
Junior Achievement of Central Ontario (JACO), a licensee of Junior Achievement of Canada, is a not-for-profit organization supported by local businesses and organizations, foundations and individuals. JACO delivers financial literacy, entrepreneurial and work readiness programs to students at no cost to students or school boards. Volunteers from the business community, service clubs and the general public facilitate all JA programs. Please visit www.central-ontario.jacan.org for more information about the organization and their programs.

SOURCE: Junior Achievement of Central Ontario

For further information or to speak with a Junior Achievement of Central Ontario representative, please contact:

Nic Canning
Cohn & Wolfe
647.259.3276
[email protected]