MAUMELLE, Ark (March 10, 2025) |
Telcoe Federal Credit Union, in partnership with Pulaski County Special School District and The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce, hosted a Financial Reality Fair for Maumelle High School seniors at the Maumelle Community Center. This engaging and educational event provided students with hands-on experience in making real-life financial decisions, equipping them with essential money management skills as they prepare for adulthood.
As the students arrived in the morning, they were directed to assigned tables where they were presented with the opportunity to interact and converse with business professionals. As the students and volunteers ate breakfast (catered by Seven Brew, First Service Bank, and Holloway Engineering), the students were encouraged to engage with interactive questions to help guide their understanding of their future educational and career goals.
During the fair, students navigated a series of interactive booths, each representing different financial responsibilities and lifestyle choices. Participants faced decisions such as choosing between renting an apartment or buying a home, selecting a vehicle, and estimating costs for utilities and insurance. They also explored options for entertainment, discretionary spending, and investments, encouraging them to think critically about their financial priorities.
Each booth was staffed by volunteers from various businesses throughout central Arkansas, who provided guidance and insights to help students make informed financial choices. Booths featured realistic pricing options, allowing students to determine how much they were willing to allocate for each expense, reinforcing the importance of budgeting and financial planning.
In addition to the interactive booths, students participated in three specialized adulting sessions: Money 101, Car 101, and Police & Fire Safety 101. These sessions provided valuable insights into financial management, vehicle ownership responsibilities, and essential safety knowledge, further preparing students for life beyond high school.
The Financial Reality Fair is part of Telcoe Federal Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to promoting financial education and preparing young individuals for financial independence. By engaging with students in a real-life setting, the event fosters responsible money management habits that will benefit them beyond graduation.
