Junior Achievement Jumbles Assets

To all of the Junior Achievement Volunteers, Teachers, Administrators and Friends: We have had some significant changes recently that we wanted to share with you. We are accelerating our move towards our long term vision of an Entrepreneurial Institute, implementing a business model change, and doing some internal reorganization.

Long Term Vision: We are currently evaluating how quickly we can move into the 2nd Ave facility. This is our future and we, along with the kids of Central Ohio benefit from our geographic proximity to downtown and our partnership with Columbus City Schools. Our goal is to move into the new facility before Fall of 2009.

Business Model Change: It is imperative in today's economic climate that we are a model for economic responsibility. Therefore, we will only be running funded programs. This includes BizTown and in-school classes. Again, our delivery of in school classes and BizTown will continue, although we will be only be delivering those classes that we have funded.

Reorganization: With all of these changes, Roger Kisel will be transitioning to a PT consultative role focusing on the Entrepreneurial Institute. Due to the business model change and the slowing economy Shawnda Vega, Cathy Beaber, and Roger Murphy will be leaving Junior Achievement. Their passion and contributions will be sorely missed. On an interim basis I will be serving as executive director.

Calling all Friends: The time is now! The reorg allows us to operate in this environment without worrying about viability, but only you can help us to grow and prosper. Over the next couple of weeks I will be working with our JA Staff to identify our top priorities and how we might be able to use the untapped power of our volunteer base. It you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to email me and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Thanks for all of your hard work, passion and commitment!

RJ Nicolosi
Interim Executive Director - Junior Achievement of Central Ohio