As Family and Consumer Science courses became less common place, school family resource staff and community leaders grew increasingly concerned about gaps in youth financial education. Without exposure to essential life skills in the classroom, many students were progressing toward adulthood unprepared to make informed financial and career decisions. Recognizing this need, Perry County 4-H, alongside dedicated community partners, responded by continuing its long standing tradition of hosting the Reality Store, a hands-on simulation designed to teach middle school students the real-world implications of budgeting, debt, and career planning. 

On April 16, 2025, Perry County 4-H held the Reality Store event at Hazard Community and Technical College. This immersive experience was made possible through strong collaboration with local partners including  the Perry County FRYSC Coordinators, Kentucky Farm Bureau, Whitaker Bank, Perry County Health Department, Kentucky Career Center, Hazard Community and Technical College , and Perry County Central FFA and ROTC Members.

A total of 352 7th and 8th grade students from both Hazard Independent and Perry County Public Schools participated. To prepare students, Perry County 4-H agents delivered lessons in schools ahead of the event using curriculum developed by University of Kentucky 4-H Specialists and Agents. These lessons encouraged students to begin thinking critically about their future careers, lifestyle choices, and the financial responsibilities that accompany adulthood.

At the Reality Store event, students rotated through a series of booths staffed by community volunteers, each representing a real-world financial responsibility such as housing, transportation, groceries, insurance, childcare, debt, and more. Students were given salaries based on their hypothetical carriers, and family scenarios, and were tasked with balancing a budget based on their financial decisions. The event emphasized key financial principles including monthly budgeting, debt management, loans, and the long-term impact of career selection.

All participating students completed pre- and post-event surveys. 88% of students reported an improved understanding of financial literacy across all areas. The remaining 12% showed improvement in at least 7 out of 9 financial areas, with student loan debt being the most frequently cited topic where understanding did not improve. Teachers and volunteers noted increased student engagement, thoughtful questions, and meaningful discussions both during and after the event.

The Perry County 4-H Reality Store continues to serve as a vital program for bridging the financial education gap in local schools. With support from dedicated community partners, the event provides youth with a practical, memorable introduction to the financial realities of adult life. Students leave the experience with a deeper awareness of how their education, career path, and financial choices are all interconnected. By investing in financial literacy at a young age, Perry County 4-H is helping to equip the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world.