Many students in our area lack essential financial literacy skills necessary for successful money management in the future. Most are uncertain about their career paths, and even those who have an idea often lack clarity on the steps required or the financial implications involved in their chosen professions. Recognizing this need, local middle schools approached Johnson County 4-H Youth Development to reinstate an in-person Reality Store event aimed at addressing these challenges.

The Johnson County 4-H Agent collaborated with Johnson County Middle School and Paintsville High School Youth Services Center Coordinators, along with community partners and local businesses, to organize the Reality Store program. Prior to the event, the 4-H agent worked closely with school counselors and youth service center representatives to guide students through preparatory activities. These included GPA calculations, research on Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) resources, exploring salaries and career options, and understanding the educational requirements necessary to pursue their chosen careers. A total of 38 volunteers participated in facilitating the event.

The Reality Store program provided an interactive, hands-on experience designed to give eighth-grade students the opportunity to explore various career paths and simulate real-life budgeting and lifestyle decisions they will face as adults.

This year, 245 eighth-grade students attended the Reality Store event. Upon completion, participants were surveyed, and the results were as follows:

68% reported an increase in their knowledge of budgeting money.

70% reported an increase in their understanding of the importance of making wise financial decisions.

67% now recognize the connection between education and career choices.

66% now understand the link between career choice and lifestyle.

Feedback from students was positive and insightful. For instance, one student noted, "It showed me how life works and how fast you spend money," while another commented, "It taught me life skills."