Celebrating the Excellence of Volunteers in Entrepreneurship
The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) has recognized outstanding volunteers for their contributions to youth entrepreneurship education. Recently in New York City, NFTE celebrated its 2025 Volunteers of the Year, highlighting the remarkable dedication of individuals and organizations that support the mission of equipping young people with entrepreneurial skills.
Valley National Bank: A Leader in Volunteer Engagement
This year's Corporate Volunteer of the Year award went to Valley National Bank, a hallmark of corporate social responsibility. The bank's commitment to youth entrepreneurship is evident in their impressive volunteer efforts, with 93 employees contributing over 220 hours to various NFTE initiatives over the past year. This participation includes coaching students during the Global Day of Coaching, judging business pitch competitions across multiple levels, and engaging with programs like NYC Summer BizCamp.
Broader Impact Beyond the Mid-Atlantic
Valley National Bank's engagement reaches far beyond its core Mid-Atlantic base. Their volunteers have supported NFTE programs not just regionally but also in the Southeast, Midwest, and even on an international scale. Jason Cahn, the Senior Vice President and Senior CSR-CRA Officer, accepted the award, underscoring the bank's mission to help young people gain vital financial skills.
Empowerment Through Education
Cahn spoke passionately about the importance of financial education. He expressed, "At Valley Bank, supporting youth financial entrepreneurship is a cause close to our hearts. When young individuals learn to manage money, build businesses, and aspire for bigger dreams, they transform into impactful changemakers." Cahn emphasized NFTE's role in providing students with the skills and confidence necessary for future success.
The Inspiration of Kristoffer Kizer
In addition to corporate recognition, NFTE named Kristoffer Kizer the Individual Volunteer of the Year. With over four years of service, Kizer has profoundly influenced countless students as a mentor, business plan coach, and competition judge across NFTE’s many regions. His commitment includes guiding young entrepreneurs in business plan development and actively participating in guest speaker events within the NFTE framework.
Instilling the Entrepreneurial Mindset
Kizer's insights on entrepreneurship are both refreshing and impactful. He remarks, "Volunteering with NFTE has reinforced my belief that the entrepreneurial spirit transcends formal qualifications and capital. It begins with the right mindset." Kizer advocates for self-empowerment, noting that with appropriate resources and the support of one advocate, students can confidently shape their own futures.
A Thriving Community of Volunteers
Both Valley National Bank and Kristoffer Kizer join NFTE’s Volunteer Hall of Fame, a revered acknowledgment that celebrates dedicated volunteers who significantly impact education and entrepreneurship. In the previous year alone, NFTE volunteers—totaling 6,420 individuals—logged an impressive 21,422 hours across various initiatives, impacting more than 17,000 learners worldwide.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
NFTE encourages professionals who aspire to contribute to the next generation of entrepreneurs to explore available volunteer opportunities. There are numerous ways to engage, whether by serving as coaches, judges, advisors, or guest speakers, all contributing to fostering entrepreneurial talent in youth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NFTE?
The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to providing entrepreneurship education to young people, empowering them to take ownership of their futures.
Why is Valley National Bank recognized?
Valley National Bank received the Corporate Volunteer of the Year award for its extensive involvement with NFTE, where its employees have contributed significant volunteer hours to support youth entrepreneurship programs.
Who is Kristoffer Kizer?
Kristoffer Kizer was acknowledged as Individual Volunteer of the Year for his dedication to mentoring students and fostering entrepreneurship through NFTE's various initiatives.
How can I get involved with NFTE?
NFTE welcomes professionals to join as volunteers, offering opportunities to support young entrepreneurs through coaching, judging, and mentoring.
What impact do NFTE volunteers have?
NFTE volunteers significantly influence aspiring entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, education, and resources that help students develop the skills they need to succeed in business.
