Suncoast Credit Union Foundation Provides $15,000 to Support Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida

Fort Myers, FL (April 22, 2026) — Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida (JA SWFL) announces a charitable gift of $15,000 from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to support JA Inspire, the organization’s large-scale career exploration experience serving middle and high school students across Lee and Collier Counties.

The donation will directly underwrite student-facing essentials and event safety for JA Inspire, including lanyards and career “passport” booklets for thousands of students, on-site safety and security, event videography for post-event learning and reporting, and student snacks. During the January-June 2026 program period, JA Inspire is projected to reach more than 8,000 students, primarily 8th and 10th graders, with approximately 52% coming from low- to moderate-income households. Through hands-on employer exhibits, career pathway activities, and integrated financial education touchpoints, students learn about local careers, required credentials, and practical next steps for their futures.

“This generous investment from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation allows us to create a safe, engaging, and meaningful experience for thousands of students at a pivotal moment in their academic journeys,” said Cheryl Kunkle, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida. “JA Inspire helps young people see what’s possible, connect classroom learning to real careers, and begin building realistic plans for life after high school. We’re deeply grateful for Suncoast’s partnership in preparing Southwest Florida’s next generation for success.”

Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union, founded the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to promote the education, health and emotional well-being of children in the community. Each time a Suncoast member uses their debit or credit card, the credit union donates four cents to the Foundation to fund local initiatives. Since its inception in 1990, the Foundation has raised and donated more than $61 million.

“JA Inspire gives students practical exposure to careers, builds confidence and encourages thoughtful planning for the future,” said Jeff Kunberger, Executive Director of Suncoast Credit Union Foundations.  “We’re proud to support Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida and their work helping young people explore opportunities, understand the value of education and credentials and take meaningful steps toward long-term success.”

About Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida

Founded locally in 1994, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida empowers young people to own their economic futures through hands-on education in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship. Serving students across Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties, JA SWFL partners with school districts, colleges, and regional employers to deliver classroom programs, large-scale career exploration experiences like JA Inspire, and innovative workforce pathway initiatives. JA prepares students with the skills, confidence, and real-world exposure they need to succeed in today’s evolving economy. Learn more at southwestflorida.ja.org.

About Suncoast Credit Union

Suncoast Credit Union is the largest credit union in the state of Florida, the 7th largest in the United States based on membership, and the 10th largest in the United States based on its $20.7 billion in assets. Chartered in 1934 as Hillsborough County Teachers Credit Union, Suncoast Credit Union currently operates 79 full-service branches and serves more than 1.3 million members across Florida. As a community credit union, anyone who lives, works, attends school, or worships in Suncoast Credit Union’s service area is eligible for membership. In 2021, Suncoast Credit Union’s field of membership was expanded to include public K-12 teachers, college educators, and educational support staff from all of Florida’s 67 counties. Suncoast is passionate about community support. Since its founding in 1990, the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has raised and donated more than $61 million to organizations and initiatives that support the health, education, and emotional well-being of children in the communities that the credit union serves. For more information, visit suncoast.com or follow us on social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.