Financial Reality Fairs

Student Experience

• Job Simulation: Receive a job assignment and a starting salary with deductions.
• Real-Life Decisions: Make choices about obtaining goods and services.
• Essential Purchases: Learn about buying cars, food, and housing.
• Financial Services: Practice borrowing and saving at the credit union.
• Budgeting Skills: Balance a budget to live within their means.
• Financial Coaching: Visit with a financial coach to explore ways to improve their financial future.

Requirements

• Host Coordination: Credit union(s) and 1-2 lead coordinators.
• Student Participation: 50-300 students ages 13-18 (junior high and high schools). Smaller groups can be accommodated with a modified version of the program.
• Space Needs: A large room for life booths.
• Volunteers: 20-30 credit union/community volunteers.

How GCU Can Help

• Support Materials: Communication templates for schools and volunteers.
• Training: Comprehensive training and operating instructions.
• Event Setup: Signage and booth materials.
• Customized Tools: Personalized budget worksheets.
• Funding Assistance: Possible grant funding for additional costs.
• Extended Learning: Financial literacy classes can be added before or after the fair.

Past Participants

ECO High School, Española Valley High School, McCurdy Charter School, Monte del Sol Charter School, Mora High School, Pojoaque Valley High School, Questa High School, Taos High School, and more!