Latest news with #DougalNelson
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Junior Achievement students give checks to three QC nonprofit groups
On Thursday, three local nonprofits each received $2,500 to support their missions, according to a news release. Throughout the 2024-25 school year, elementary students from nearly all Quad City schools learned about giving back to the community while visiting the new Free Enterprise Foundation Junior Achievement Inspiration Center. Students who participated in JA BizTown learned the importance of supporting nonprofits when their fellow students representing the Moline Regional Community Foundation's Giving Tree, shared the impact of three local nonprofits: Niabi Zoo, Living Lands and Waters, and the River Bend Food Bank. Each nonprofit received a $2,500 check from MRCF presented by students at the JA Inspiration Center, 6600 44th Ave., Moline. 'By supporting the Giving Tree we are committed to the next generation understanding how philanthropy will change our community for the better. While students learn how the free enterprise system works in a simulated environment, we wanted to demonstrate the importance of putting inspiration into action,' said Paul Plagenz, president/CEO of Moline Regional Community Foundation. 'This initiative brings philanthropy to life in a way that resonates with students. When young people see that their voices and decisions can direct real dollars to causes they care about, it empowers them to become lifelong community leaders and change-makers,' said Junior Achievement of the Heartland President and CEO Dougal Nelson. About Junior Achievement of the Heartland Junior Achievement is dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. Locally, Junior Achievement of the Heartland serves 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Visit here for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Junior Achievement of the Heartland looking for new president/CEO after Dougal Nelson retirement
Junior Achievement of the Heartland is looking for a new president and CEO after the current one announced his retirement. The Junior Achievement of the Heartland Board of Directors announced that President and CEO Dougal Nelson is retiring, effective September 30. He leaves the organization with an astonishing record of achievement and impact during his nine-year tenure. Nelson began working with Junior Achievement of the Heartland as a volunteer in 2001. His unwavering commitment to youth education led to being appointed as President and CEO in 2018. Nelson has been a force for growth, innovation and resilience during his time with JA, and these qualities helped JA navigate unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization not only weathered storms under his leadership but emerged stronger. His focus on organizational culture, student impact and strategic vision led to many milestones, including the grand opening of the JA Inspiration Center in October 2024. Nelson credits his coworkers with motivating him in his career. 'I would personally like to thank everyone in my JA family of friends and coworkers,' he said. 'It was your inspiration that guided me to success.' His legacy was solidified in 2022 when he was honored with the prestigious Karl Flemke Pioneer Achievement Award by JA USA, This award is reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment within the JA network. 'Dougal's impact on both Junior Achievement of the Heartland and our broader community has been nothing short of transformative,' said Brian Duffy, Board Chair of Junior Achievement of the Heartland. 'His vision and perseverance will leave a lasting legacy for years to come.' The Board of Directors has launched a national search for the next President and CEO to lead Junior Achievement of the Heartland and advance its mission of inspiring and preparing young people for success in a global economy. Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to presidenthiring@ with 'JA of the Heartland' included in the subject line. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Junior Achievement hosts Bowl-A-Thon to support youth education
Junior Achievement of the Heartland will host its annual Bowl-A-Thon in February and March 2025 at various locations across the 24-county territory of JA, a news release says. The event will be a fundraiser for Junior Achievement of the Heartland, which is a nonprofit focused on preparing youth for their future economically and encouraging their academic success. Teams will include five bowlers, and the registration fee will be $75. Teams must fund-raise a minimum of $300 in pledges to support local JA students. 'We are thrilled to continue the legacy of the JA Bowl-A-Thon, which not only fosters a sense of community but also supports our mission of inspiring and preparing young people to succeed,' said CEO Dougal Nelson. 'This event highlights how small efforts, when combined, can lead to a big impact.' To participate in the Bowl-A-Thon, gather your team and register here. Locations and times are listed on the Junior Achievement at the Heartland website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
