Thirty-five states require financial management classes for students to complete high school graduation, according to the Financial Education Council. With Kentucky being one of the newly thirty-five states requiring financial literacy classes, these skills are still a crucial need for students’ future success. From banking to managing debt, buying a home or planning for retirement, require a wide range of resources. The Clay County 4-H program responded to requests by the local high school for an “It’s Your Reality” event. The Clay County Extension Agents in collaboration of GEAR-UP, Advent Health Hospital, First National Bank of Manchester, Thompson Scholar, local volunteers and teachers, conducted a successful “It’s Your Reality” event, a real-life workforce prep and financial management program. 

Before the program, 125 12th-grade students had the opportunity to choose a career, receive monthly income, select single/married status/ family status. During the event, students visited fifteen booths, which included insurance, housing, transportation, groceries, childcare and much more. Students were encouraged to make wise, real-life decisions. This was an eye-opening experience for  students, as many were unaware of the amount of monthly expenses.

Evaluation Results Revealed: 

94% reported a better understanding on how to budget money

96% reported a better understating on how to make wise financial choices

97% Gained knowledge on what it costs to maintain a household

100% Gained a better understanding on what it costs to raise a child