VyStar Credit Union announces their Reality Fair at the EnMarket Arena on Saturday, July 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This free large-scale simulation event is designed to equip 200 teenagers (ages 13–18) with essential money management skills for real-world financial challenges. Participants in the Reality Fair receive a new identity with an income and are instructed to create a budget. They are presented with real-world monthly expenses and unexpected events like getting a raise at their job or encountering a car repair bill, and will be challenged to adjust their budgets on the spot. These moments spark discussions about financial resilience and the importance of emergency funds. It is a valuable learning experience that teaches teens that life is unpredictable, and financial planning matters.
“At VyStar, we have remained steadfast on our quest to reach as many teens as possible with various forms of financial education,” said VyStar Vice President of School Programs Michael J. Rathjen. “In addition to these interactive events we have 18 VyStar High School Branches to provide work-site experience and internship opportunities to students. Through the program we have delivered financial education training to over 13,000 students to prepare our youth for their financial future.” VyStar Credit Union has facilitated hundreds of Reality Fairs over the last decade reaching thousands of students as part of VyStar Financial Fitness aimed at empowering youth to enhance their money skills and gain a basic understanding of budgeting.
VyStar recognizes the importance of teaching students these vital skills now to set them up for success later in life. VyStar representatives will be on-site to assist with opening VyStar student memberships, including checking accounts and parent accounts. Opening a youth account gives students the ability to learn how to manage their money in a safe way. All participating students will also receive two ticket vouchers valid for Monster Jam on September 6–8 at Enmarket Arena.
Participating teens must be accompanied by a parent, caregiver or chaperone who are welcome to view the Reality Fair. As the simulation concludes, there is a group discussion on how students navigated their assigned scenarios. Teens learn from each other’s experiences and discover effective coping mechanisms on how to overcome challenges when they encounter difficulties and explore practical strategies for handling financial stress. These insights provide valuable lessons.
Pizza and refreshments will be provided. RSVP now and help your teen build a strong financial foundation. Registrations for the free Reality Fair at EnMarket Arena are open until the event but we encourage attendees to register ahead of time. Secure your spot now and prepare for an engaging and educational day at vystarcu.org/realityfair.