Credit Union Helps Teens "Take a Bite of Reality".

More than 40 teens from the Long Beach area recently took a "Bite of Reality" and learned the basics of finances at St. Marys Hospital in Long Beach, thanks to the Long Beach branch of Orange Countys Credit Union in partnership with the Richard Myles Johnson Foundationthe state foundation supporting financial education efforts of credit unions in California and Nevadaand St. Marys group, EM3.

The youth participated in Bite of Reality, a hands-on simulation program offered by the RMJ Foundation, together with the California and Nevada Youth Involvement Network, which supports quality financial education for young people in the two states. At the March 19 event, the teens were given a fictional occupation, salary, spouse and family, student loan debt, credit card debt, and medical insurance payments. The teens then visited various table-top stations to "purchase" housing, transportation, food, clothing, household necessities, day care, and other needs. In addition, there was a "credit union" to help with financial needs. They also faced some unexpected expenses and windfalls. The teens who participated in the program enjoyed it, saying they learned to be more wise in their finances by focusing on purchasing things they needed first before spending money on things they wanted. They also commented on how much they appreciate what their parents go through in handling money issues. "It was great that we had more than 40 teens attend the workshop and 10 Long Beach-based organizations pulling together to assist in providing an event that helps to promote financial stability in our community in a fun and interactive way," said Azul Sanchez, Orange Countys Credit Union Long Beach branch manager. "The Bite of Reality program gives teens a hands-on opportunity to experience making financial decisions and a better understanding of the challenges of living on a budget," said Tena Lozano, executive director of the RMJ Foundation.