Community First Career Exploration & Financial Literacy Center shows kids what’s possible.

Building on the successful model of Junior Achievement (JA) BizTown and Finance Park in Milwaukee, a new center has found a home on a college campus for the first time. The Community First Career Exploration & Financial Literacy Center opened in January 2020 and is helping kids learn about career options, personal finance and how communities work.

“This couldn’t be a more perfect fit,” says Michael Frohna, executive director of Junior Achievement of Wisconsin. “Fox Valley Tech’s programs complement Junior Achievement’s mission of work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy. It made sense for us to partner with a technical college that prepares students for careers of today.”

The center is set up as a town square with “storefronts” sponsored by various organizations. Each offers a wide range of hands-on learning activities in areas related to financial wellness and STEM skills.  

Students will apply for a job with one of these organizations, create a budget and then pursue their career at JA BizTown or JA Finance Park. They’ll also learn what type of education is needed to prepare for these jobs. “This facility provides a link between kids and real career opportunities available right in their own back yards,” explains Frohna.