ABOUT
PREPARING YOUTH FOR SUCCESS
JA Canada equips youth with skills for success through financial health, work-readiness and entrepreneurship programs and learning experiences. We help young Canadians discover their potential, build real-world skills and step confidently into the future.
Who We Are
JA Canada inspires youth to realize their potential and make a positive impact in their communities. We bring learning to life through a national network of local offices across Canada.
Mission
JA Canada inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy.
Vision
Young people have the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities.
Values
Believe in the boundless potential of young people.
Advocate for the impact of relevant hands-on learning.
Teach principled, market-based economics and entrepreneurship that build a more sustainable world.
Approach our work with passion, honesty, integrity and excellence.
Seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and talents in our staff, volunteers and boards to reflect the geographies and communities we serve.
Nurture the power of partnership and collaboration.
What We Do
Through our network of local offices, we work with educators, volunteers, and partners across Canada to deliver digital and hands-on learning experiences to youth that build skills in financial health, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. We back this work with transparent reporting and responsible stewardship of donor dollars.
Our Three Pillars
Entrepreneurship
Students learn how to identify opportunities, test ideas, and build resilience, whether they start a business or lead within one.
Work Readiness
Students explore careers and develop essential workplace skills, such as communication, teamwork, and professional confidence.
Financial Health
Students gain practical money skills for everyday life, including budgeting, responsible use of credit, and how to make informed financial choices over time.
JA Worldwide
JA Canada is part of a global community as a member of JA Worldwide: one of the world’s largest and most impactful youth-serving non-profits. Globally, JA delivers more than 23 million student experiences each year in over 100 countries. JA Worldwide has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and continues to be ranked among the top ten NGO/SGOs in the world (recognition by thedotgood.)
Learn more about JA Worldwide: jaworldwide.org
JA Americas and JA Canada
At a regional level, JA Canada is part of JA Americas which includes Canada, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. JA Americas is a large region with 26 member nations providing more than 3 million student learning experiences each year.
Learn more about JA Americas: jaamericas.org
JA in Canada
Through a national network of 15 local JA offices, we work with educators, volunteers, and partners from coast to coast to coast.
National Office
The national office is responsible for all program development, setting program delivery standards, supporting national fundraising and partnerships, brand management and national events/competitions/awards.
Local JA Offices
Local JA offices work directly with schools, volunteers, and partners to deliver programs and learning experiences in their geographic area. Each office manages local initiatives such as fundraising, regional school contacts, volunteer recruitment and training, program delivery/event management, marketing channels and collecting data.
499,571
Youth learning
experiences
15
Local JA offices
9,000+
Volunteers
and mentors
2,000,000+
Youth Learning Hours
Who We Work With
Youth
Immersive learning opportunities to build confidence, resiliency, leadership and transferable skills.
Educators
Volunteer or teacher-led classroom programs and field trip experiences with easy-to-use resources.
Volunteers
Coordinated learning experiences to share career insights and mentor the next generation.
Supporters
Meaningful ways to invest in youth potential, backed by transparent reporting on impact.
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility
Creating learning environments where young people feel welcomed, respected, and represented.
Our Commitment
JA Canada is committed to a diverse, inclusive, equitable and accessible environment where differences are valued and respected in all areas of our business. Our programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible, free of prejudice and discrimination. We respect the backgrounds, creativity and talent of all individuals. As we inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy, we teach youth to recognize inclusivity and diversity as an asset.
Celebrating Success with Canada's Highest Business Honor
Established by JA Canada in 1979, the Canadian Business Hall of Fame (CBHF) honours leaders who have shaped Canada’s business landscape and continue to inspire the next generation. CBHF is JA’s signature fundraising event, supporting programs that empower young people nationwide.