KERN COUNTY, CA (November 5, 2024) — Valley Strong Credit Union will be giving an estimated 175 seniors in YWEL (Young Women Empowered for Leadership) and PODER (Providing Opportunities for Development, Empowerment & Resilience) an opportunity to learn what it’s like to have financial responsibilities and live on a budget this Thursday, November 7.
The Bite of Reality program is a hands-on app-based simulation that appeals to teens while giving them a taste of real-world financial realities. Teens are given a fictional occupation, salary, credit score, spouse and a child, student loan debt, credit card debt, and medical insurance payments.
The teens encounter various stations to “purchase” housing, transportation, food, clothing, childcare and other needs. Fortunately, the game also includes a “credit union” to help with their financial needs.
This interactive activity teaches teens how to make financial decisions and gives them a better understanding of the challenges of living on a budget. Valley Strong employees and community partners volunteer their time to work at the various stations, some as a pushy “car salesperson” or a commission-based “realtor,” just like they may encounter in real life.
Media Opportunities: Photo, video and interviews with students, school employees, and Valley Strong employees.
Location: Bakersfield AG Pavilion, 3300 E. Belle Terrace Rd., Bakersfield 93307
Date: Thursday, November 7
Time: 12:30 pm for Valley Strong & Volunteer Interviews: 1:00 pm Student Simulation
Valley Strong Credit Union operates 31 branches in Kern, Kings, San Joaquin, Solano, and Tulare counties, serving more than 360,000 individuals, with approximately $4 billion in assets. It remains one of the largest financial institutions headquartered in the Central Valley.
Becky Swiggum
Phone: (661) 833-7934
Email: rebecca.swiggum@valleystrong.com
