Introduction:
A warm welcome to our community members, supporters, and partners!
This newsletter highlights our recent accomplishments, introduces new leadership additions, and acknowledges the incredible support from our Legacy Builder Team, whose dedication has been instrumental in shaping the future of our programs.
Program Success:
Student Participation in Fall and Spring Programs:
- We are proud to announce that 250 students successfully completed our Fall and Spring Youth Entrepreneurship Programs.
- These programs focused on leadership development, financial literacy, and community engagement, equipping students with real-world skills.
Program Outcomes:
✔ 95% of students reported increased leadership confidence.
✔ 90% improved their financial literacy and entrepreneurial mindset.
✔ Several students launched business ideas and community projects.
The JBA Interview Prep Program was also successfully implemented, empowering students with vital job-readiness skills.
Program Highlights:
✔ Over 100 students participated in mock interviews.
✔ 85% secured job offers or internships within three months of completion.
✔ Students gained real-world confidence in resume-building and interview skills.
Recognition and Grants:
Humanitarian Grant Awarded by the City of Jonesboro:
- We are honored to have been awarded the Humanitarian Grant for $20,000 by the City of Jonesboro, as part of their $500,000 initiative to support nonprofit organizations. (jonesboro.org)
Planned Initiatives with the Grant:
✔ Expanding mentorship programs to serve more students.
✔ Developing new workshops focused on career readiness and entrepreneurship.
✔ Enhancing resources to support student-led business projects.
Leadership Additions:
We are excited to welcome three exceptional leaders who bring extensive experience and a shared passion for youth development and business education:
Alex Trufin – Founder of AllyRecruit LLC, a seasoned HR and business professional with over 14 years of leadership experience. Alex will bring invaluable workforce development insights to our programs.
Rikita Saunders – A dedicated community advocate, Rikita joins our board to help expand our outreach and strengthen mentorship initiatives.
Salma Abdel-Karim – A student leader and innovator passionate about fostering economic opportunities, Salma will support curriculum development and student engagement.
Their expertise will play a critical role in expanding our mission and elevating the impact of JBA’s initiatives.
Acknowledgements:
Our Legacy Builder Team & Core Supporters
A special thank you to our Legacy Builder Team, whose dedication and contributions have been pivotal in our success:
Legacy Builder Team:
- Henry Burrell
- Kristi Pulliam
- Bryan McCormick
- Steve Etter
- Miranda Kelley
- James Turner
- Kevin Hofstadler (Arvest Bank)
- Kitzo Coaching & Consulting
- Reginald Prunty
- Lisa Perry
- Sophia Seger
- Zoreonita (Wednesday volunteer mentor)
- Abby Lee
- Antonio & Paris (Business Planning Mentors)
- Jason Cowgill (Home Finance & Lending Speaker)
- Terrell Patterson (Ebony X Entrepreneur Guest Speaker)
- Arianna Brown (Arianna Grace Design Owner & Speaker)
- Jill Hudson & Scotty Hendrix (New York Life Insurance Speakers)
- Youssef Sheroubi & Keaton Early (Something Skateboards Founders & Speakers)
- Alex Trufin, Rikita Saunders, & Salma Abdel-Karim (New Leadership Team Members)
We are incredibly grateful to our key partners and sponsors whose contributions continue to elevate our mission:
Core Supporters & Community Partners:
- Jonesboro Radio Group
- St. Bernards Hospital
- NEA Baptist Hospital
- Delta Crawfish
- Centennial Bank
- Arvest Bank
- Pinnacle IT
- BNI Jonesboro
- Signature Bank
- Gearhead Outfitters
Your unwavering support has been essential to our success, and we are grateful for your commitment to empowering students and strengthening our community!
Looking Ahead: Join us in Building the Future
Upcoming Programs and Initiatives:
✔ Summer Leadership Camp for middle school students.
✔ Youth Entrepreneurship Expansion to new school districts.
✔ Community Impact Projects focused on financial literacy and business development.
How You Can Get Involved:
- Become a Mentor: Guide students through their business ideas.
- Volunteer for Events: Help us expand our reach.
- Sponsor a Student: Your contribution can provide scholarships and resources.
📢 Follow us on social media and visit our website to stay updated!
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonesborobusinessassociation/
Thank you for being a part of our mission. We look forward to continuing this journey with you!
