In keeping with a tradition of community involvement and a commitment to financial literacy, First Financial Federal Credit Union of Maryland partnered with SECU for the second year in a row to host a Reality Fair for Lansdowne High School seniors.
A Reality Fair is an interactive event that immerses the students in real life financial situations. Credit Union employee volunteers ran stations consisting of mandatory expenses like housing, transportation, food, clothing, and cell phones, in addition to elective expenses including entertainment, pets, and part-time employment. Students were given a credit score and asked to identify a career choice, complete with starting salary. With this information they are required to effectively designate expenditures and are subsequently offered financial counselling by credit union employees to further guide them through any necessary changes.
“Our annual Reality Fair was an exceptional experience for students and volunteers alike. After graduation, the seniors from Lansdowne High School will be thrust into situations where they need to know how to manage their daily living expenses. As a result of this Reality Fair experience they are now better prepared to do this responsibly.” stated Cindy Jones, Youth Outreach Manager from First Financial Federal Credit Union.
First Financial is a proud supporter of financial literacy and education efforts across Baltimore and Carroll Counties and will continue to contribute to the future of local students in every way possible.