The men and women who serve the United States of America at Buckley Air Force Base are guided by three core values –integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. Service before self. This tenant holds true in the work that these airmen and women do as committed community volunteers for Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain (JA).

In 2014, JA launched a partnership with Buckley Air Force Base to recruit and train interested personnel to serve as JA classroom volunteers. Since that time, more than 40 individuals have contributed their time and talents to students in K-8 classrooms in Denver and Cherry Creek Public Schools.

“Given their hectic and demanding jobs, we’re grateful that so many service people have made the time to volunteer and to help us reach an increasing number of young people,” said Angie Moran, K-8 Program Manager for JA.

“It’s important for kids to meet and learn from military personnel who are serving our country. They not only learn about the economic and financial lessons that our volunteers teach, but also learn what it’s like to serve in the military and about the sacrifices many individuals make to protect America’s freedoms.”

In 2015, Buckley Air Force volunteers taught nearly 20 classes at Indian Ridge Elementary School in Aurora, and in 2016 have worked with students at Aspen Crossing Elementary School and Holm Elementary School.

“I believe that understanding personal finance, economics and the free trade system is so important for our nation’s kids, said Aleksey Lazarev,SrA, USAFR. “And it’s rewarding to see that military personnel can share unique perspectives and experiences with students, which can enhance what’s happening in the classroom. I’ve volunteered six different times for JA in a Day programs, and I plan to continue,” added Lazarev.

Schedules can be difficult and individuals are deployed at varying times, but this doesn’t keep a steady flow of service men and women from fulfilling an ongoing commitment to serve as role models and teachers to local students.

“I encourage others – on and off base – to volunteer with JA. It’s a rewarding opportunity to work with kids and to build relationships with the local community,” added Lazarev.

Service before self – it’s a value that is alive and well among the dedicated JA volunteers from Buckley Air Force Base.