Financial Reality Fair at Superior Central High School
Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) recently partnered with Superior Central High School to host a Financial Reality Fair, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, providing students with a hands-on opportunity to navigate real-world financial decisions. Approximately, 53 students participated from Superior Central High School in this interactive event, designed to teach budgeting, smart spending habits, and the importance of Financial Reality Fairs.
During the fair, students stepped into the role of working professionals, selecting careers and managing monthly expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and more. The goal was to create a balanced budget while dealing with unexpected financial challenges, mirroring real-life financial responsibilities.
“Collaborating with our fellow credit unions to bring Financial Reality Fairs to the communities we serve reflects the true spirit of the credit union movement — people helping people. By working together, we’re able to deliver impactful, hands-on financial education to the students at Superior Central High School in a way that’s both engaging and relevant. These events don’t just teach budgeting skills — they spark real conversations about financial responsibility and future planning. We’re proud to be part of a cooperative effort that invests in the financial wellbeing of the next generation. ”
— Jennifer C. Watson, CEO
Feedback from students highlighted the program’s impact. One student shared that it helped them understand the importance of being financially responsible. Another noted they learned to prioritize needs over wants and to set aside money for savings. A third student reflected on the value of choosing more affordable options to ensure they could meet all their needs. Additionally, one student emphasized the importance of saving money from a summer job and placing it in a savings account that earns interest.
“We appreciate Limestone Financial Credit Union coming to Superior Central today to put on this Financial Literacy event with our freshmen and juniors. Many of our kids were disappointed in the amount of extra cash they had after paying their bills. I think it’s a great simulation to show them the reality of where paychecks go.”
— Bill Valima, Principal, Superior Central High School
“Buying my needs before my wants and putting money aside for savings. This way I will have more money when I need it.”
—Student at Superior Central High School
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the following volunteers for their dedication and support. Volunteers participated from Limestone FCU, Embers Credit Union, MSU Extension of Alger County, MSU Extension, and MSU Extension of Schoolcraft County. Our volunteers included: Nikki Balkum, Jill Connin, Erin Daines, Hailey Hoholik, Julie Johnson, Emma Jones, Katie Ketcher, Magen Peterson, Tyreen Prunick, Alexandria Read, Brooke Swajanen, Jennifer Watson, and Michaela Zuzula. Their time and efforts were invaluable to the success of the event, and Limestone FCU is deeply grateful for their contributions.
Limestone FCU remains committed to promoting financial education within the communities it serves. By equipping young adults with financial knowledge and practical experience, the credit union continues to empower students to build strong financial foundations for their futures.
