September 21, 2026
The Taco Bell Foundation is awarding a record-breaking $32 million in Community Grants in 2026 – marking the third year that Junior Achievement of Acadiana has been selected as a grant recipient.
Lafayette LA, (September 21, 2026) – Junior Achievement of Acadiana is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a 2026 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support high school mentoring programs; Leading Ladies and Mentoring Men. These programs teach Acadiana teens personal finance, workforce readiness skills, and entrepreneurial thinking.
‘This grant allows us to reach more students with the tools and guidance they need to build a successful future,’ said Reagan Robicheaux, Development Director. ‘We’re grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation and B&G Foods for believing in our mission and investing in the potential of our youth.’”
2026 is Taco Bell Foundation’s biggest Community Grants year yet: a record $32 million supporting 700 nonprofits nationwide, representing a 40% increase in nonprofit partners from last year. Fueled by fans who Round Up their Taco Bell order totals, the investment is creating more opportunities for young people through education, career readiness, mentorship and youth empowerment.
Junior Achievement of Acadiana was nominated for the grant by local Taco Bell franchisee B&G Foods, whose continued commitment to uplifting youth has helped expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs across the community.
“When you think about how this started, with fans giving a little extra at checkout, it’s incredible to see that generosity grow into $32 million for organizations serving young people across the country,” said Morgan Tabor, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “What I love most about Community Grants is how local they are. Taco Bell franchisees know these organizations, they believe in their work, and together we’re helping more young people see just how much is possible for their futures.”
Through this grant, Junior Achievement of Acadiana will be able to continue to service Acadiana high school students with essential skills for economic success.
To learn more about Junior Achievement of Acadiana please visit http://acadiana.ja.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.
About Junior Achievement of Acadiana
Junior Achievement of Acadiana is dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. Through hands-on learning experiences focused on financial literacy, work and career readiness, and entrepreneurship, Junior Achievement empowers students to own their economic success and plan for their futures.
About Taco Bell Foundation
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 13 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $278 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.
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