Junior Achievement of West Central Florida has joined with HSBC North America to help local students plan for their future and make smart academic and economic choices. JA and HSBC volunteers implement the economic learning programs at schools in the Tampa Bay area.

Both Junior Achievement and ING U.S. believe in preparing students to enter the workforce with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful through hands-on work readiness programs.

Tampa Bay Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier, Lightning owner Jeff Vinik and his wife, Penny, congratulate Ben Carpenter, 17, recognized as a Lightning Community Hero. Click here to watch the video

The dropout crisis in America’s educational system has a devastating impact on the future health of the economy. Nearly every year, only 70 percent of students complete high school on time and earn a diploma.

Seven Junior Achievement operations won MetLife Foundation’s 2011 Entrepreneurial Awards and grants of $25,000 each for outstanding innovation in developing the entrepreneurial spirit in young people.

Junior Achievement of West Central Florida announced that Mike Robertson has been chosen from more than 138,000 U.S. volunteers to win the organization’s highest award for volunteerism, the Gold Leadership Award. Mr. Mike Robertson was honored September 21, 2011 in Washington, D.C. as part of a celebration dinner for the annual JA Day on the Hill.

A recent JA Gallup Poll revealed that two-thirds of those responsible for hiring new employees believe it is increasingly important for the American workforce to be more entrepreneurial to stay competitive in the world economy. Read JA's report on, "The Entrepreneurial Workforce" to learn more.