POWERGRAMS

10 safe for our employees, teachers and students. We brought our 'Inspiring Tomorrow' program to help students learn," said Crowson, co-treasurer of Magic City APSO. "All the students get excited to meet people in the professional world. It's the highlight of students' day." Best of all, Magic City volunteers can tailor their lessons based on students' needs: "I'm thankful for a way we can continue to connect with the community," Crowson said. Anita Gouse, program coordinator at JA's Birmingham office, uses a virtual format to prepare volunteers from APSO and other groups. Gouse said JA has enjoyed an excellent response from Alabama Power volunteers, all of whom have received great feedback from schools they've assisted. JA provides all the educational materials. "Junior Achievement truly makes a difference in a student's life," said Gouse, a longtime educational consultant, educator and former principal for Trussville city schools. "Through JA, many students realize they have potential and can do things that they otherwise thought was impossible. We teach kids financial literacy, which they never have an opportunity to get anywhere else." She recalled one Alabama Power employee made a big impression bringing doughnuts for a second grade class while demonstrating profit and loss. In mid-August, Gouse said volunteers were able to enter Birmingham schools to present lessons, but understood that other arrangements might be required later in the school year, depending on the pandemic. Gouse, who calls herself "an educator at heart," said that Magic City APSO volunteers have impressed students and faculty. The programs have proven so successful that four more Birmingham schools want to offer JA. "I can't say enough positive things about our Alabama Power employees who have helped," Gouse said. "This work fits perfectly for Alabama Power employees because there are talks about family, cities and the region. The impact the volunteers have on the kids is great: They do such a good job and the teachers say that the employees kept the kids engaged. I'm hoping we'll be gaining more volunteers from Alabama Power this year." By Donna Cope Holly Campbell and Justin Phillips led online sessions. APSO chapters statewide have continued Junior Achievement mentorships through virtual meetings.

• Cover