New Rick Case Interactive Experience at Junior Achievement “BizTown” Gives Kids Real-World Auto Industry Knowledge
COCONUT CREEK, FL (October 26, 2022) – South Florida 5th graders are getting a first-hand taste of the car business, courtesy of a unique, new experience created by the Rick Case Automotive Group at Junior Achievement of South Florida.
The brand-new, state-of-the-art interactive Rick Case “storefront” is part of “JA BizTown,” a simulated city in JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, the largest single JA facility in the world. JA BizTown is a collection of businesses sponsored by real local businesses, designed to demonstrate how a functioning economy works, asstudents play roles as executives, associates, and consumers at businesses within the town.
“Our goal was to make our storefront both engaging and educational for the students,” said Rita Case, President and CEO of the Rick Case Auto Group. “We want young people to know that the auto industry is a vital part of our economy and provides great career opportunities, as well,” Case added.
As part of this 5th grade blended program, students apply for jobs at BizTown, earn paychecks, learn to save money and make purchase decisions. During the simulation, students hone essential skills like collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, communication and so many others, that will make them more successful later in life.
The Rick Case storefront is staffed by a student CEO and CFO, as well as a Sales Consultant and Service Technician. When student “consumers” enter the business, they are guided through the vehicle selection process by the sales team, where they choose and customize their cars or trucks, selecting styles, color, wheels, and accessories at a virtual vehicle design center. Service techs then demonstrate the basics of auto maintenance, including the importance of checking fluid levels and tire pressure.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Rick Case Auto Group, our first-ever, student-run business representing the automotive industry in JA BizTown. This storefront is a great example of a real-world industry leader investing in helping to educate and influence future employees and leaders,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO, Junior Achievement of South Florida.
Over 20,000 5th Grade students from Broward and Palm Beach County are expected to experience JA BizTown this school year.
The Rick Case Automotive Group celebrates its 60th year in business in 2022.
The Rick Case Automotive Group has been honored by Automotive News as the National All-Star Dealer and is one of the largest auto groups in America. With 14 dealerships in Florida and Georgia, the Rick Case Automotive Group offers Honda, Hyundai, Genesis, IONIQ, Volkswagen, Kia, Acura, Audi, Mazda, Maserati, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Honda Motorcycles and E-Z-GO golf carts. Rick Case dealerships are number one for sales volume in the markets they serve, some rank as America’s largest dealers. The Group’s national headquarters are located at 14500 W. Sunrise Blvd. in Sunrise, FL. For more information, visit www.RickCase.com.
About Junior Achievement of South Florida
Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 69,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.