Balanced Life Reality Fair Gives Students Financial Knowledge

Red River Credit Union hosted a highly successful "Balanced Life Reality Fair" on October 6th, 2023, at the Texarkana Convention Center. The event was presented in partnership with the Texas Pioneer Foundation and saw participation from 231 students representing 10 high schools in the Texarkana area. The Reality Fair was a resounding success, reinforcing the Credit Union's commitment to financial literacy and empowering young adults to make informed financial decisions.

The "Balanced Life Reality Fair" is an educational initiative that aims to prepare high school students for the financial challenges they will face in the real world. The event provides students with a hands-on experience in managing their finances, making informed choices, and understanding the importance of budgeting.

During the fair, students assumed the role of young adults with various income levels, careers, and family situations. They were tasked with managing a monthly budget that included expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and other daily necessities. Participants had the opportunity to visit different stations, each representing a real-life financial decision they would encounter, such as housing, transportation, insurance, and entertainment.

Red River Credit Union volunteers and staff along with many local community business representatives were on hand to guide students through the process, offer advice, and answer questions about managing their finances effectively. This interactive and immersive experience allowed students to gain valuable insights into the financial responsibilities they will face after graduation.

"We are thrilled with the success of this year's Balanced Life Reality Fair," said Brad Bailey, CEO of Red River Credit Union. "Financial literacy is a crucial life skill, and we believe in investing in the education of our community's young adults. We are proud to provide a platform for these students to learn about responsible financial management in a practical and engaging way."

The Reality Fair received positive feedback from both students and educators alike. Teachers praised the event for its relevance and educational value in preparing students for the financial challenges they will face after high school.

Red River Credit Union remains committed to promoting financial literacy and empowering young adults with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complexities of the modern financial world.

For more information about Red River Credit Union and its educational initiatives, please visit www.rrcu.com. Want to host a reality fair at your school or community, just call 903-735-3000