Free events help prepare students for real-world financial scenarios
PITTSFIELD – As Financial Literacy Month approaches in April, Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union, part of the Kennebec Valley Chapter of Maine Credit Union League, is planning two upcoming Financial Fitness Fairs. These interactive, educational events are designed to help students develop essential money management skills.
The first fair will take place Thursday, April 9 at Cony High School in Augusta, bringing together students to participate in a hands-on budgeting simulation. The second event will be held Wednesday, May 13 at Hall-Dale High School in Farmingdale, continuing the effort to prepare local students for financial decisions they may face as adults. The events are open to students at their respective schools.
Since launching in 2004 Maine Credit Unions’ Financial Fitness Fairs have reached more than 80,000 students statewide, helping young people build confidence around budgeting, spending and saving. During the program, students are assigned a hypothetical career and monthly income. They then visit booths representing common expenses — such as housing, transportation, student loans and more — to build a realistic monthly budget and ensure their expenses stay within their income.
The interactive format allows students to see firsthand how everyday financial decisions add up, while volunteers from local credit unions provide guidance and answer questions throughout the process.
“As students prepare for life after high school, understanding how to manage money is one of the most important skills they can develop,” said Nicole Robinson, Newport branch manager at Sebasticook Valley FCU and Financial Fitness Fair partner. “These fairs give students a chance to experience real-world financial scenarios in a fun, supportive environment and learn how to make thoughtful financial choices.”
Maine’s credit unions have been recognized more than a dozen times with the national Desjardins Award for Youth Financial Education, making Maine the most honored credit union system in the country for financial literacy programs.
The events align with Financial Literacy Month, which highlights the importance of providing young adults with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate financial responsibilities with confidence.
For more information about Maine Credit Unions’ Financial Fitness Fairs, visit the Maine Credit Union League website. To learn more about Sebasticook Valley FCU, visit www.svfcume.com.
