Students Engage with Real-Life Financial Scenarios

Advantage One Credit Union recently hosted a financial reality fair at Taylor High School for the 200 students representing their junior class. The reality fair was requested by School Counselor, Jennifer Louwers, in hopes of helping students learn how to make the most of their money and understand the importance of financial stability.
In preparation for the fair, students were assigned specific jobs, such as pharmacy tech,
paralegal, mechanic or security guard, and were given a credit score and also a monthly salary.

On the day of the fair, students were presented with real-life financial scenarios and had to
develop a plan to make their monthly budget work, or they would go into debt. The students got
to visit stations run by volunteers from Advantage One Credit Union, Community Choice Credit Union, Monroe County Credit Union and One Detroit Credit Union. The stations included categories such as housing, transportation, childcare, savings, entertainment and more. After visiting each station, students met with financial counselors to see how they did and if they stayed within budget or went into debt. “The students seemed to really enjoy going to the stations and making the different life choices. Many didn’t realize just how much things cost and seemed to be more appreciative of their parents by the end of the day.” Laughed Member Service Specialist (AOCU) Amber Hayes.

Chris Corkery, the CEO of Advantage One said, “By introducing students to financial concepts such as credit scores and budgeting, Advantage One is helping to provide them with the skills necessary to make responsible financial decisions. Through this opportunity, students gained insight into the obstacles of managing their personal finances and building a foundation for a secure financial future.”

In January, Advantage One purchases a new reality fair program through Balance. This was the first event with the new program, and they are looking to provide financial reality fairs to more schools and non-profit organizations throughout downriver in the 2023-2024 school year.

Advantage One Credit Union is a local financial organization with over $240 million in assets and two
branches in southeast Michigan. Since 1952, Advantage One has served area residents by offering financial
products, services, and education to help members meet their needs and achieve their goals.. Learn more
at www.myaocu.com.