It is evident that today’s youth are not prepared for the realities of life.  An article published on youth.gov stated that “a survey of 15-year-olds in the United States found that 18 percent of respondents did not learn fundamental financial skills that are often applied in everyday situations, such as building a simple budget, comparison shopping, and understanding an invoice.”  Technology has taken the place of learning the basics and our youth are missing the link.

Caldwell County 4-H collaborated with the COPE Center (FRYSC) to host a live-learning event for 131, 8^th grade students at Caldwell County Middle School to help bridge the gap. The 4-H Reality Store is an experiential real-life simulation which provides students the opportunity to explore careers, set goals, make lifestyle and budgeting choices. This exercise helps youth understand some of the realities of adulthood and encourages them to begin to think about their future. It is a fun and practical way to allow youth the opportunity to envision what their life may be like at 25.

There were several classroom visits prior to the actual event that prepared the students for the day.  On the day of the Reality Store the participants deposit their monthly income into the bank and then purchase all of their monthly needs including buying a car, purchasing a house, paying property taxes, etc.  Youth quickly see that their wants are greater than their needs and realize the importance of making wise choices in school, career choice and life. 

An evaluation at the completion of the program found that: 

                77% Learned how to make wise financial choices.

65% Understand the link between career choice and lifestyle.

71% Learned the importance of thinking about their future career goals. 

The Reality Store is a valuable program that provides direction for 8^th graders as they plan to enter high school and eventually adulthood.  One youth commented after the Reality Store that “I guess I need to get my act together and really think about what I want to do with my life.” It was a sarcastic comment, but he was genuinely serious. Another student stated that “I had no idea that “life” cost much!”  

This event could not have taken place without the help of the community, volunteers, 4-H teen council members, and Caldwell County Middle School.  There were 21 volunteers and 6 teen council members that hosted the event.