unior Achievement of South Dakota and Sturgis Brown High School have partnered to bring JA Finance Park simulation to students on April 16, 2026! This hands-on, immersive program gives students a meaningful, real-world introduction to personal finance, budgeting, and decision-making — essential skills that will benefit them long after graduation.
During the simulation, students receive a career and life scenario, then work with volunteer mentors to build a monthly budget and learn how to reach financial goals while living within their means. In small groups of 3–6, students rotate through 20 different budget categories, spending about five minutes at each station as volunteers highlight important considerations and real-life trade-offs.
To make this opportunity possible, JA is seeking enthusiastic volunteers from the Sturgis area. Volunteers guide students through everyday financial decisions — from housing and transportation to childcare, savings, and more — helping them understand how choices today shape their financial future.
The time commitment is small, but the impact is significant. Volunteers consistently describe the experience as energizing, meaningful, and a fun way to support local students.
Volunteer at JA Finance Park:
One 4-hour session — day of training provided, no prep required
Great for individuals or groups of colleagues
A powerful way to help students build confidence in budgeting, saving, and financial decision-making
For more information: contact Jennifer Aman, Junior Achievement, 605-336-7318. Sign up today: JA Finance Park Date Options.
Bringing JA Finance Park to Sturgis Brown High School students is a promising and encouraging step forward in expanding financial literacy education in western South Dakota. Community involvement makes lessons and learning experiences like this possible. JA of South Dakota is proud to partner with Meade School District to provide students with this transformative experience.