Junior Achievement of ME and SBSI Announce InspireME Initiative

PORTLAND, Maine (October 29, 2020) – In partnership with Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution (SBSI), Junior Achievement of Maine (JA Maine) has announced the launch of InspireME, a month-long initiative that will thank volunteers, share their stories and highlight their commitment to serving Maine’s youth. Together, JA Maine and SBSI will also produce a video series that will help spread awareness of JA’s important mission. One of those videos will showcase the diversity of career options in banking for students.

“Volunteers are the backbone of Junior Achievement,” said JA Maine President Michelle Anderson. “They bring our programs to life, inspiring students and preparing them with the skills and knowledge to succeed. SBSI is such a committed partner in this work, and we’re thankful for the financial and volunteer resources they have donated to move our mission forward.”

Throughout November, InspireME will show appreciation for JA Maine’s volunteers by showcasing them on social media, website blogs and creative video compilations. Volunteer role models and mentors from local communities empower, motivate and prepare students to become tomorrow’s leaders and ignite a passion for continuous learning. Through storytelling and sharing their own professional experiences, volunteers also introduce many students to professions and career paths they might not have considered.

To expose students to the variety of careers in banking, JA Maine and SBSI will collaborate to create a video which will highlight non-traditional roles in departments like marketing and information technology. While traditional careers in customer service and financial analysis are more well-known, banking offers numerous opportunities for different interests and skill sets.

“We wanted to show students that there is something in banking for everyone,” said Joe Reardon, SBSI VP and frequent JA volunteer. “The video series will provide a great opportunity to see real examples of banking careers that usually aren’t top of mind for kids.”

For more information on the social media campaign, connect with JA Maine on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Junior Achievement of Maine
Junior Achievement of Maine is a 501c3 organization who proactively partners with businesses, non-profits, and educators to create quality driven, impactful, relevant experiences to K -12th grade students statewide, resulting in economically self-sufficient citizens capable of leading choice filled lives. JA Maine’s mission is to inspire, prepare, and empower young people to have the skills and knowledge to own their economic success through volunteer delivered programs that focus on work force readiness skills, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship education. JA Maine partners with the business community to bring these programs to life for thousands of students across the state. For more information, visit www.jamaine.org

About Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution
Founded in 1827, Saco & Biddeford Savings is Maine’s oldest bank. For over 190 years, SBSI has continued to meet the ever-changing needs of the customers and communities it serves. Fulfilling its commitment to mutuality and being In It Together, SBSI has contributed more than $4 million to area organizations over the last 10 years. For more information, visit www.sbsavings.bank, Instagram at @SBSavings, Facebook at @sacobiddefordsavings, or visit one of their locations in Saco, Biddeford, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Scarborough, South Portland or Westbrook. Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.