Junior Achievement of the Heartland Celebrates 70 Years With Free Community Event

Junior Achievement of the Heartland is celebrating 70 years of helping students prepare for their futures, and the organization is inviting the community to be part of the milestone.

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Founded in 1956 with only 155 students, Junior Achievement of the Heartland has grown to nearly 65,000 students each year across 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. To celebrate seven decades of impact, the organization is hosting a free 70th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, October 8th, from 4 to 7 PM at the JA Inspiration Center in Moline.

“70 years is an incredible milestone, but what matters most is the impact behind those 70 years. Thousands of volunteers, educators, donors and community partners have helped make these experiences possible for generations of students. We’re excited to celebrate that history while looking ahead to what’s next for JA and the students we serve.”

-Lysa Hegland, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of the Heartland

The community is invited to stop by and enjoy an open house featuring hands-on activities, historical displays, and opportunities to learn more about how Junior Achievement continues to help students build skills and confidence for life in the real world and out of the classroom.

Credit: Junior Acievement of the Heartland

According to the organizations press release, those that attend will receive a special 70th Anniversary Passport to guide them through interactive stations and experiences throughout the center. Visitors can explore Junior Achievement BizTown and Junior Achievement Finance Park, and check out displays highlighting the organization's history. It also connects guests with the volunteers, educators, business leaders, donors, alumni, and community partners who have helped make JA's work possible. Those who complete their anniversary passport will also be entered for a chance to win his-and-hers watches from Necker's Jewelers.

Credit: Junior Acievement of the Heartland

Event Details

• What: Junior Achievement of the Heartland 70th Anniversary Celebration
• When: Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4 to 7 PM
• Where: JA Inspiration Center, 6600 44th Avenue, Suite 3, Moline, Illinois
• Cost: Free

While the celebration looks back at the organization's history, it also highlights the work Junior Achievement continues today. JA helps students develop practical skills and connections that can open doors to future opportunities; hands-on learning experiences focused on money, business, and the world of work. The anniversary celebration provides an opportunity to recognize those contributions while looking ahead to the next chapter of Junior Achievement's work in our region.