The Bay Path RVTHS Class of 2017 got to experience the 2nd Annual Reality Fair put on by the school and Southbridge Credit Union. The senior class was given the opportunity to experience a “reality check” as they were assigned at random a career and monthly income which they had to budget accordingly. The students were assigned the tasks of finding housing, transportation, car insurance, medical insurance, groceries, clothing, and furniture and also deciding on savings/checking accounts, charitable giving, retirement etc. They also faced some temptations along the way; taking vacations, gym memberships, becoming a pet owner and a variety of other entertainment options to name a few.
While at the Reality Fair, students had to take a chance and spin the “While of Fortune/Misfortune” either resulting in them having to take into account an unexpected expense that life throws their way or giving them a pleasant surprise of lottery winnings or an inheritance. Overall it was an eye opening experience for the senior class.
SCU would like to thank Bay Path RVTHS, The Tri-Community YMCA, Second Chance Animal Shelter, Liberty Mutual, Lamoureux Ford, All Cruise & Travel, Exit Realty and our volunteers from SCU, The Central MA South Chamber of Commerce, Savers Bank, WPI and Central One FCU.
“This year at the reality fair, we were excited to have more businesses join us and more volunteers from the area as well who came out to show their support and check out the fair.” said Lismarie Collazo, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach at SCU. The Reality Fair continues to be a win-win-win for all involved. The students learn to make financially sound decisions, businesses gained exposure to future customers and our communities will benefit from having young adults who will be more financially savvy consumers.
