Photo by Blair Creative Group

Makayla Richardson has recently joined the board of Junior Achievement (JA) in Alachua County, a chapter of the nonprofit organization based out of Tampa. Junior Achievement is a national program that aims to teach financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship to students from 6th to 12th grade, preparing them for real-world success. By offering valuable lessons in areas that are often overlooked in traditional education, Junior Achievement equips the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive world.

The 3DE Program: A Classroom Revolution

One of Junior Achievement’s flagship initiatives is its 3DE program, which brings experiential learning into the classroom. Designed to complement existing school curricula, 3DE challenges students to solve real-world business problems, teaching them how to think critically, collaborate, and innovate. This program is especially targeted at students who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship but may not have access to the resources needed to fully explore this path.

Much like other niche programs such as JROTC, AVID, or the International Baccalaureate (IB), 3DE provides a structured environment where students can develop practical skills. However, it stands out by focusing on entrepreneurship, helping students understand the fundamentals of starting and running a business, from managing finances to leadership development.

Photo by Gainesville Health & Fitness

The Growing Board of Junior Achievement in Alachua County

Makayla Richardson now serves on the Junior Achievement board in Alachua County, which currently has 13 active members. Together, they work with local schools to implement the 3DE program, aiming to inspire and educate the next generation of Gainesville entrepreneurs. While their current focus is on bringing the 3DE program into classrooms, the long-term goal is to establish a dedicated facility for Junior Achievement activities in the region. This facility would serve as a hub for learning, collaboration, and innovation, offering young people an accessible space to explore their entrepreneurial ambitions.

Addressing a Critical Need

With many students coming from single-parent households, financial literacy and entrepreneurship are not always prioritized in the home. Junior Achievement aims to bridge that gap by providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in their future careers. By offering hands-on experience and exposure to real-world business challenges, the program encourages students to think critically and take control of their financial futures.

BizTown: Real-World Experience for Young Minds

One of Junior Achievement’s most well-known events is its annual BizTown program. This immersive experience allows students to step into the roles of business leaders, where they are tasked with managing businesses, making financial decisions, and solving problems with real money. It’s a unique opportunity for kids to see firsthand what it takes to run a business and to understand the responsibilities of financial management and teamwork. BizTown gives students a glimpse into the real world, helping them build confidence and develop the skills necessary to succeed in today’s economy.

Preparing Gainesville’s Future Leaders

As Junior Achievement continues to grow in Gainesville, the organization is committed to preparing young people for life beyond the classroom. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, JA is helping to create the next generation of business leaders who will shape Gainesville’s future.

Through programs like 3DE and BizTown, and with the support of dedicated board members like Makayla Richardson, Junior Achievement is positioning itself as a vital resource for students who want to take control of their financial futures and pursue entrepreneurial success. As the organization continues to expand, the future looks bright for young entrepreneurs in Gainesville.