Many students struggle with financial management skills and lack the knowledge when it comes to making wise financial decisions. Practicing this skill and providing more opportunities for financial literacy at an early age, can help prepare youth for a more successful future. The Clay County Extension Council identified basic budgeting skills as a top need for youth throughout the county.

Local elementary schools requested the 4-H Dollars and Sense Program. Clay County 4-H, Partners for Rural Impact, FRYSC, teachers and volunteers collaborated with one another to host the program and prep students with lessons before the event. Red Bird Christian School, Big Creek Elementary and Hacker Elementary Schools participated, and approximately 250, 4^th-6^th graders, completed the program. Students learned the difference between needs vs. wants, budgeting an allowance, responsibility, and making smart financial choices. Students had the opportunity to visit booths, which included food, pets, entertainment, grooming, unexpected life events and many others. Students were able to experience the cost of items and seeing what items were a top priority.

 Post Evaluation results revealed:

 93%  reported thinking about the cost of an item before deciding to buy it

95%  reported having a better understanding of managing money

98% reported feeling more comfortable making smart financial decisions