Arrow Electronics is supporting a Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain (JA) initiative that will deliver increased programming to K-12 students in economically disadvantaged communities in Denver. The effort is designed to promote equitable access to critical finance, career and entrepreneurial education.

JA is increasing its programs in the Five Points, Whittier, Cole, and Clayton neighborhoods of Denver, where 92.5% of students receive free or reduced-price lunch, a nationally recognized indicator of poverty. JA’s programs have proven effective in preparing young people to succeed economically. JA alumni are more likely to say they are better off than their parents were compared to the general population, and earn 20% more than the general population. Sixty-two percent of JA alumni are working in positions that are manager status or above.

“With this concentrated effort, Junior Achievement and Arrow can make a real difference for students in these underserved areas, giving them a path forward, and equipping them with skills to build a successful life for themselves and their future families,” said Junior Achievement Rocky Mountain President and CEO Robin Wise.

Arrow is a longtime supporter of JA, serving as the presenting sponsor for Junior Achievement Business Week, a week-long residential business “boot camp” experience for students in grades 9-12. Arrow employees have also participated in Bowl-A-Thons to raise money for scholarships to send students to the camp.

Because of social distancing requirements, JA programs are currently being delivered via pre-recorded video and live virtual video conferencing. With Arrow’s help, JA expects to reach more than 1,000 students in Five Points and neighboring communities.