Horizon Hosts Reality Fair at Loyalsock High School

Horizon Federal Credit Union brought real life into the classroom last Tuesday, April 21, transforming Loyalsock High School into a crash course in adulthood during its annual Financial Reality Fair for juniors in the Class of 2027.

The interactive event was designed to help students gain a better understanding of the financial responsibilities associated with independent living and early career decision-making. Each student was assigned a simulated starting salary and provided with a budget worksheet, then challenged to make informed choices related to housing, transportation, food, entertainment, and other everyday expenses.

The Financial Reality Fair is part of Horizon’s commitment to financial literacy and serving their community. “Our vision is to help individuals experience a brighter financial future,” explained Horizon’s Chief Branding Officer Michael Patterson. “We enjoy partnering with area schools and engaging with students to help teach the importance of creating and staying within a budget and managing expenses. We hope these experiences help them to continue to make sound financial decisions for the rest of their lives.”

To reflect the unpredictability of real life, students also had the opportunity to spin a “life events” wheel, which introduced scenarios such as unexpected medical expenses, vehicle repairs, or workplace bonuses. After completing their budgets, financial advisors reviewed each student’s monthly expenses to determine whether they successfully stayed within their means and offered guidance on making financial adjustments.

“I thought it was great to be exposed to the real-world expenses” commented Hazel Z., a senior at Loyalsock High School. “It was surprising to see how everything added up and how quickly it was to spend money on entertainment, food, and rent.”

Horizon Federal Credit Union was joined by employees from MC Federal Credit Union, and Priority First Credit Union  volunteers who assisted students throughout the experience and provided support and insight during the decision-making process.