As a nonprofit and program of the Salt Lake Chamber Foundation, Utah Community Builders recognizes an organization each month that is making a meaningful impact in the community. This initiative aligns with their mission to activate the Utah business community to address pressing community issues that strengthen the state’s workforce.
Making a lasting difference in the community by equipping young people with essential life skills is at the heart of Junior Achievement of Utah and Idaho (JA). As part of JA Worldwide — a global organization founded in 1919 and active in over 100 countries — the Utah and Idaho chapters have been empowering students since 1956. What began as a small after-school program has grown into a vital local resource, reaching thousands of students each year and helping shape the future of the community.
Through hands-on programs in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship, young people build self-belief, imagine new possibilities and prepare for their futures. “While we teach these core subjects, our mission is to help students connect learning to real life,” said President and CEO Christy Tribe. Supported by dedicated volunteers, Junior Achievement has made a global impact, earning four Nobel Peace Prize nominations, and continues helping youth discover their potential and gain the tools to succeed.
JA thrives on strong partnerships with schools, community organizations and state leaders. “We work closely with school districts and teachers to support students and show them how what they’re learning matters,” Tribe said. They also collaborate with individuals, foundations and key supporters, including Governor Spencer Cox and First Lady Abby Cox. Local chambers of commerce help recruit volunteers and JA partners with nonprofits like United Way, Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA.
When discussing how helpful JA can be to their students, Tribe said, “I think it’s really important that we give kids a safe space to fail and self-correct. They learn more through those experiences — like not being able to pay back a business loan during a simulation. In our programs, they’re not shamed for making mistakes. Unlike traditional classrooms where it’s pass or fail, students here are encouraged to take risks, learn from failure and grow — just like they’ll need to do in the real world.”
By offering these real-world learning experiences, Junior Achievement is making a lasting impact in the community, preparing students for a bright and successful future.
Support their mission by becoming a volunteer or exploring their programs here.
