SpartanNash has announced a partnership with Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes to support JA Finance Park, the organization’s capstone program for financial planning and career exploration.
SpartanNash participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 4 for the Family Fare experiential learning center, where students can choose from a range of careers, including cashier, supply chain forklift operator and corporate roles. They learn how to create a monthly budget based on their career choices and family scenarios, then plan their grocery purchases accordingly.
The immersive grocery storefront will open at the Karl & Susan Hascall Junior Achievement Finance Park when classes begin in January.
It also features an interactive 136-inch TV display for students to visualize different career paths, plus the opportunity to take a selfie that places them on the SpartanNash private label Our Family brand of Wheat Flakes cereal.
“Financial independence and career exploration are two of the most important skills we can teach young people – and grocery is an essential industry with many admirable career paths across supply chain, retail, transportation and corporate job functions,” said CEO Tony Sarsam.
“Our new partnership with JA of the Michigan Great Lakes aligns with SpartanNash’s mission to deliver the ingredients for a better life, including the careers that make a better life possible.”
SpartanNash’s five-year commitment to JAMGL includes financial support and employee volunteer opportunities. This summer, the company raised more than $150,000 for the organization through its back-to-school in-store fundraiser.
JAMGL President and CEO Bill Coderre hailed the continuing partnership.
“SpartanNash shares our passion to empower young individuals, and workforce development education is an important addition to the program,” he said. “We believe in the power of helping students master financial independence while educating them about the various career paths available to live responsibly.”
Read more wholesaler and distributor news from The Shelby Report.
