Volunteer in JA BizTown

JA BizTown is a hands-on volunteer opportunity that gives upper-elementary students—typically 5th graders—the chance to experience what it’s like to work, earn money, manage a business, and participate in a community.

Before their visit, students complete classroom lessons that prepare them for their day at JA BizTown. On simulation day, students become citizens in an 8,500-square-foot replica of a city at either our Portland or Hillsboro facility.

The city includes nearly 20 businesses and community organizations, including retail stores, financial institutions, media, restaurants, and City Hall. Students arrive already hired for a job and prepared with a completed business plan. During their visit, they will work in their assigned jobs, open and use bank accounts, make purchases and manage spending and work together to operate their businesses.

What Do JA BizTown Volunteers Do?

Volunteers serve as business coaches, working with a small group of approximately 3–8 students in one JA BizTown business during the 4–4.5-hour simulation.

As a volunteer, you will:

• Guide students as they operate their business

• Coach students through their assigned jobs and responsibilities

• Help students understand how their business generates revenue and manages expenses

• Encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership

• Help students make smart decisions about spending and managing their paychecks

• Lead three short, scripted staff meetings during the simulation

• Be a positive resource and mentor for your students throughout the day

You don’t need to be a business expert! Your professional and life experiences are valuable, and JA provides the training, materials, and resources you need to feel prepared and confident.

How Much Time Does It Take?

JA BizTown is designed to be a one-day volunteer experience.

• Before simulation day: Complete 30 minute online training (see below), review FAQs and logistics information.

• Simulation day: Arrive 60 minutes before students for orientation and preparation.

• During the simulation: Spend the day working directly with your group of students alongside JA staff.

• Total commitment: Approximately 5 ½ hours on simulation day, plus the short online review.

What Are the Volunteer Requirements?

All JA BizTown volunteers are asked to:

• Complete the Volunteer Registration Form

• Sign the Volunteer Conduct Form

• Sign the Digital Media Form

• Complete the required online volunteer training before simulation day

• Attend the onsite orientation on simulation day

Who Can Volunteer?

JA BizTown is a great volunteer opportunity for community members, business professionals, parents, retirees, college students, and others who enjoy working with young people.

You don’t need previous teaching or business experience. What matters most is that you’re positive, encouraging, willing to engage with students, and ready to help them learn.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Parents and school-connected volunteers: Please connect with your classroom teacher to learn how to sign up.

Corporate and community volunteers: Use the link below to view available JA BizTown volunteer dates and sign up for a day that works for you.

We’d love to have you join us and cannot bring this experience to students without your help!