Local Entrepreneur Sponsors Spring Valley Youth to Attend Entrepreneurial Summer Camp

Amber Thomas with JA Summer Camp students

Jul 29, 2024 (San Diego, CA) — From restaurant worker to corporate intern to becoming San Diego’s first Black-owned Chick-fil-A franchisee, Amber Thomas is now helping the next generation become inspired and prepared to achieve their own future success.

As a long-time resident of Spring Valley, Thomas is sponsoring six students from the area to attend Junior Achievement of San Diego (JA San Diego) Summer Camp at the McGrath Family JA BizTown. The JA BizTown Summer Camp introduces students to the world of business and inspires youth for their futures. Thomas additionally generously provided Chick-fil-A sandwiches for lunch for every camper.

“When I decided to open a Chick-fil-A in Spring Valley, I knew I wanted our impact to be greater than serving chicken,” said Thomas. “The youth is the future of our community. Helping provide access to BizTown to teach them work-readiness, financial stewardship, and entrepreneurship will help strengthen the foundation of Spring Valley as we continue to grow together.”

Campers will be participating in hands-on activities that foster entrepreneurism and build their foundation in career readiness including Shark Tank pitches, mock job interviews, and managing a BizTown shop as part of the McGrath Family JA BizTown mini-city simulation.

Thomas is a former associate of JA San Diego and recognizes the impact of the program in inspiring young people to think like entrepreneurs and explore the opportunities out there for them. Thomas is now the owner and operator of the Chick-fil-A located at Highway 125 and Jamacha Road.