United Way and Junior Achievement Engage Kids and Companies for Career-Readiness

DETROIT, Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 500 Detroit area students will see their "shadows" on Groundhog Day, Thursday, February 2nd.  That is to say -- they will emerge from their classrooms and enjoy a day job shadowing career professionals at top area companies.

National Groundhog Job Shadow Day is coordinated locally by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan and Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan. The program helps kids gain greater understanding about the skills and education required for a myriad of careers. 

Groups of students from 15 United Way Turnaround schools will travel to 13 participating companies (see list) including General Motors, DTE, Bank of America, eTitle Agency, and Kelly Services, to name a few. At each location they will meet with company representatives, tour facilities and engage in training exercises such as mock interviews.

"The job shadow experience for students is an excellent way to expose high school students to the work environment; to help them understand the dynamics of the modern workplace and inspire them to broaden their dreams for careers and success in life," says Karen Kosniewski, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan.

Prior to visiting companies, students participate in self-assessment surveys to identify skills and narrow down possible areas of interest as well as several classroom sessions related to the job shadow experience.

Around the country, more than a million students nationwide and 100,000 businesses are expected to participate in some type of job shadow experience. In addition to providing real-life experiences in the work world, job shadow activities increase attendance and graduation rates among high school students.

For information about National Groundhog Job Shadow Day, companies and schools can contact Cindy Bazner at (313) 962-5689,  [email protected] or Nicole McKinney at (313) 408-2511 or [email protected].

About Junior Achievement

Since 1949 Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan has been dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers, and provide relevant, hands-on experiences that give students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. Today, Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan reaches 37,000 students per year in ten counties with the help of 1,300 volunteers. Visit www.jamichigan.org for more information.

About the United Way

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Campaign and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.liveunitedsem.org. 

About the National Groundhog Job Shadow Day

NGJSD is a joint effort of America's Promise - Alliance for Youth, Junior Achievement USA, and the U.S. Department of Labor. 

Onsite contacts available upon request (example):

General Motors -- 100 Renaissance Center, Detroit MI
66 Students from Harper Woods and Hamtramck schools
Arrival time 9 a.m. -- Departure time 1 p.m.  
Onsite contact: Nicole McKinney, (313) 408-2511 or [email protected]

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Laura L. Rodwan, (313) 477-2750

SOURCE Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan