Partner
Transforming Lives and Livelihoods
Become
A Partner
We work with our partners to empower a new generation with connections, skills and confidence. Together, we inspire young people with the networks, role models and know-how to lead fulfilling lives and build thriving communities. We create a lasting, positive impact on not only the lives of young people, but also on the partners and volunteers who make this work possible through their support and expertise.
We will help you:
- Meet your CSR objectives
- Guarantee impact with unique volunteer opportunities
- Report regularly on the impact of your funding
- Create and attend educational events
- Communicate your support

“We need to be direct about just how big the challenges are for future generations and act accordingly. Desjardins wants to support youth through initiatives that encourage them to dive into something, exceed their own expectations, take on new challenges and above all, believe that anything is possible.”
GUY CORMIER, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF DESJARDINS GROUP
Why JA Central Ontario?
Things are looking pretty scary for young people right now. A global pandemic, drastic changes to the world of work, an impending recession… young people are feeling it all. And employers too: employers are having to radically rethink the workforce in a post-COVID, tech-first world - just as this new generation is entering the world of work.
We know that 68% of young people are worried about what the future will look like, 64% are stressed about finances and 66% are stressed about future career paths. 59% of Ontario students in grades 7-12 say the pandemic has made them feel depressed about the future. And employers are telling us that certain social and work-readiness skills - like adaptability and creativity - are lacking as they create the workforce of the future.
An impending recession, slowing economic growth and a changing job market are combining with the social and interpersonal impacts of COVID-19, including a decline in an overall sense of community and wellbeing.
So, in the face of uncertainty and the challenges to come, how does JA Central Ontario empower young people to thrive today and long into the future?
Work Readiness

Young people have experienced unemployment and income loss as
a result of COVID-19 restrictions. These setbacks also come with a learning gap - a lack of employment skills could negatively impact youth later in life. What's more, the future of work requires new skills that go beyond the traditional. Employers are already telling us that certain social and work-readiness skills - like adaptability and creativity - are lacking as they create the workforce of the future.
JA Central Ontario brings the world of work to life: from creating the perfect resumé and job interview prep, to exploring unknown job markets and building industry connections. JA students are ready to tackle the job market today and in the future - no matter what that future holds.
Financial Health

In the face of an impending recession and slowing economic growth, young people need to understand how to manage and support their financial health, and that of their communities.
JA Central Ontario brings financial health education to life: empowering students not only with the practical skills they need to manage their finances, but also the mindset to build, grow and adapt in a changing financial landscape.
Entrepreneurship

After the past couple of years, young people are ready to make some big, social and structural changes. The best way to shake things up? Do it yourself! An entrepreneurial mindset, and the right supportive networks, are the first things youth need as they plan the future they want to see - not just the future they inherit. Entrepreneurship not only accelerates economic growth16, it offers a grass-roots path for real change.
JA Central Ontario's entrepreneurship experiences build the business knowledge, social connections and self-leadership students need to take the plunge and start their own revolution.
Partnership Opportunities
SUPPORT LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Help students build self-belief and real-world skills in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship and more as they plan their futures.
STRATEGIC GIVING
Give a gift and help prepare youth for life, meaningful work, and an opportunity to do good in the world.
FUNDRAISING EVENT SUPPORT
Join our community, expand your network and fundraise for JA at regular events throughout the year.
Fundraise for JA
Rally your organization and make a huge impact quickly with the help of your colleagues.
Interested in joining the JA Central Ontario Network? Become a partner