Limestone FCU and Manistique Middle and High School, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, Host Two Successful Financial Reality Fairs for Middle and High School Students
Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) recently hosted two Financial Reality Fairs, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, for middle and high school students at Manistique Middle and High School. This event provided middle school students in grades 7–8 and high school students in grades 11–12 with a hands-on opportunity to navigate real-world financial decisions at an early age. A total of 103 middle school students and 106 high school students participated in this interactive event, designed to teach budgeting, smart spending habits, and the importance of financial literacy.
During both fairs, students stepped into the role of working professionals, selecting careers and managing monthly expenses including housing, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and more. Each fair was tailored to the appropriate grade levels, middle school (grades 7–8) and high school (grades 11–12). The goal was to create a balanced budget while navigating unexpected financial challenges that mirror real-life financial responsibilities.
“It’s always rewarding to see students fully engaged in the interactive activities Limestone brings to local schools. These fairs not only teach important money management skills, but also help lay the foundation for a lifetime of financial confidence and responsibility.”
— Kiarra Herson, Member Education Coordinator
Student feedback highlighted the meaningful impact of the Financial Reality Fair, with many participants describing the experience as eye-opening and highly relevant to real life. A strong theme throughout the feedback was surprise at the high cost of living, particularly housing, cars, furniture, food, hobbies, and everyday expenses. Students frequently noted how fast money runs out, how quickly costs add up, and how easy it is to get into debt. Several respondents also reflected on the importance of credit, recognizing how credit scores and debt levels affect purchasing power. Others shared new awareness about budgeting challenges, saving habits, and the limited cash remaining after monthly expenses, even when choosing lower-cost options or living with parents. While a few students felt confident in their financial knowledge, the majority indicated the fair provided practical, real-world insights they can apply as they plan for future financial decisions.
“The Financial Reality Fair is more than just a classroom exercise; it’s a powerful, hands-on opportunity for our students to step into the shoes of an adult and truly grasp the complexities of the cost of living. By navigating real-world financial choices today, they are building the confidence to manage their own futures tomorrow.”
— Michelle LaVigne, Head of Student Services, Manistique Middle and High School
“I was surprised with how quickly the cost of things added up.”
— Student at Manistique High School
“I did not know kids are this expensive! Do you think I cost this much?”
— Student at Manistique Middle School
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the following volunteers for their dedication and support. Volunteers participated from Limestone FCU, Carmeuse, Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District, InvestUP, Grover Real Estate, Transnation Title Agency, Schoolcraft County Courthouse, and Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital. Our volunteers included: Jessica Baker, Jennifer Benedetto, Amy Berglund, Mark Calhoun, Mallary Dillon, Kathy Frankovich, Jodi Hakes, Kristina Hansen, Kiarra Herson, Hailey Hoholik, Regina Johannes, Katie Ketcher, Heather LaLonde, Patrick Lamb, Ariel Maddox, David Muxlow, Kayleigh Nance, Sabrina Oshelski, Sophie Shepard, Alyssa Swanson, Lorelei Vallier, Jennifer Watson, Abbey Wood, Travis Wood, 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.
