The Crossroads Chamber, in partnership with Junior Achievement of Chicago, proudly hosted the annual JA Chambertown event on March 18 at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center, providing students across Northwest Indiana with essential budgeting and life skills. This hands-on program offers real-world experience in financial management, helping students understand the costs of daily life and make informed financial decisions.
"JA Chambertown is a testament to the power of collaboration—when schools, businesses and volunteers come together, we create real-world learning experiences that inspire the next generation to take charge of their financial futures," said Rosyln Malouhous, Director of Junior Achievement of Chicago's NW Indiana Division.
This year, JA Chambertown expanded to include nine schools and served approximately 2,000 students. The event was made possible through the support of over 100 volunteers, many of whom were provided by chamber members. Through this immersive experience, students develop financial literacy and critical decision-making skills that will benefit them well into adulthood.
“This event is a fantastic example of the power of collaboration between education and the business community,” said Deann Patena, CEO and President of Crossroads Chamber. “By engaging students in real-world financial scenarios, we are helping to prepare them for success in their future careers and personal financial management. It’s inspiring to see our local businesses invest in the next generation.”
JA Chambertown operates as a simulated town filled with businesses, where students actively engage in budgeting for necessities such as food, housing, and savings & investments. Local businesses participate by sponsoring streets named after them, allowing them to play an active role in student education. This dynamic and interactive approach connects students with local businesses, helping them understand the economy in a tangible and meaningful way.
“When our 8th graders participate in this program each year, it gives them a new outlook on planning for their future—they have an opportunity to think differently about their high school coursework and what their goals might be,” said Arthur Equihua, Chief Human Resource Officer of Crown Point Community School Corporation. “For some of them, it's the first chance they get to think critically about a career interest.”
JA Chambertown continues to make a lasting impact by fostering financial literacy and career readiness among students. The Crossroads Chamber and Junior Achievement of Chicago remain committed to empowering the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed for financial success.
The event was made possible with the help of the following sponsors: BMO Harris Bank, Centier Bank, Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters, CertaPro Painters of NWI, Chase Lowden - Financial Advisor, Chick-fil-A, First Merchants Bank, Indiana American Water Co., Lakeshore Public Media, Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, M+J Works, Old National Bank, Peoples Bank, Purdue Federal Credit Union, Purdue University Northwest, REGIONAL federal credit union, Schilling IT, South Shore Convention and Authority and United Healthcare.
