Due to the ongoing pandemic, the community saw a lack of financial and "real world education in students across the county.  Many of them were not prepared to graduate, live on their own, or search for a career.  

Powell County 4-H, in partnership with the Powell County School system, was able to host a day of real world education - The Reality Store - at the Powell County Middle School for all 8th grade students.  Students were given a monthly income amount based on their current GPA by the guidance counselor. Once given their income, they simulated paying taxes to the government, and then continued on to various booths where they paid bills, bought groceries, cars, insurance, and childcare. In total, 131 8th grade students participated with 22 adult volunteers helping run the event.

The adult volunteers included people from various offices and business around the county, including: health insurance, non profits, tourism, car insurance, and county government officials.  They were all pleased in helping take part to educate young adults in there county about real world education and financial management.

At the end of the program, students we're surprised at how expensive their future lives may be.  For students with higher GPAs, they realized how much extra income they may have per month, allowing them to contribute it to other non profits, churches, etc.  For students with lower GPAs, they realized how little income they could possibly have in the future, and the struggles they would have just to pay for housing, groceries and childcare.  Overall, the students felt as if they were better prepared for what to expect when they start finding jobs, driving, graduating, and attending college.