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255 students. Real decisions. Real impact: Breakwater’s Financial Reality Fairs

Houghton, MI (April 8, 2026) |

Breakwater Federal Credit Union brought hands-on financial education to local high school students this week, hosting two Financial Reality Fairs for juniors and seniors in Baraga and Houghton counties as part of its Financial Literacy Month efforts.

This year’s events marked the second annual Financial Reality Fair at L’Anse Area High School and the third annual fair at Houghton High School, reflecting continued growth in Breakwater’s financial education efforts.

Approximately 80 students from L’Anse and Baraga High Schools participated in the Financial Reality Fair at L’Anse Area High School, with an additional 180 students taking part in the Houghton High School fair.

Financial Reality Fairs are designed to simulate real-life budgeting decisions. Students are assigned a career and monthly income, then rotate through stations covering expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, and more. As they move through each station, they make financial choices and adjust their budgets, gaining a better understanding of how everyday decisions impact their financial future.

“We’re proud to partner with local schools to bring this experience to students,” said Kayleigh White, Marketing & Community Relations Coordinator at Breakwater Federal Credit Union. “By working together, we can better prepare the next generation for financial success.”

Financial Reality Fair materials were developed with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, supporting efforts to expand financial education opportunities for students.

Breakwater will host several additional events throughout Financial Literacy Month, offering opportunities for community members of all ages to build their financial knowledge.

Learn more about upcoming Financial Literacy Months here: 

Celebrate Financial Literacy Month with Breakwater - Breakwater Federal Credit Union

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