Many students lack financial knowledge and skills to make wise financial decisions. Money management is one of the most important life skills to be learned. The Wayne County 4-H Council identified financial knowledge and money managing skills as areas for improvement and need for more programming. Local school systems agreed and requested the 4-H Reality Store program.

The Wayne County 4-H Agent collaborated with Wayne County Middle School, Wayne Co. Youth Services Center, community partners and local businesses in order to offer the Reality Store program. School Counselors guided students through pre-event activities. This included tax lessons, salaries and career exploration. Over 40 volunteers participated in the event. This program is an active, hands-on experience that gives teens a chance to explore career opportunities and make lifestyle and budget choices similar to those faced by adults.

Over 250 eighth grade students visited the Reality Store this year. Participants were given a survey as a follow up to the program after the students had time to reflect on their experience.

Here are the results:

71% increased their knowledge of budgeting money

77% now acknowledge a link between career choice and lifestyle

75% realize the amount of money made will influence lifestyle

81% increased their knowledge of the importance of making wise financial decisions

All school personnel, community partners, and volunteers as well as extension facilitators agreed that the Reality Store positively influences the financial management skills and attitudes of all the participants. Through the program, the 8th Grade Class has been taught financial skills necessary for success in the real world.