Leominster MA – April 14, 2017 – Nearly 200 students attended the Clinton High School CU4 Reality Financial Fair sponsored by Leominster Credit Union on March 30, 2017. The Financial Education Fair prepares students for the many financial decisions they will need to make once out of school. Students prepare for the event through a yearlong curriculum that introduces them to skills on responsible money management, creating a budget and making wise decisions regarding credit. The CU4 Reality Financial Fair is a three-hour exercise where students select a career with realistic salaries and then start on a “financial education” journey visiting booths attended by local businesses, volunteers and LCU employees to gain a real life understanding of living expenses.

Students visited booths where everyday life experiences and spending situations were presented. Volunteers including auto dealers, realtors, lenders, utility providers, retailers and others who helped them understand the actual expenses and how to develop a spending plan. This event brings awareness and a focus on “needs versus wants.” Students learned that they may need to change expectations. Instead of buying a car, they may need to take public transportation; or they may need share living expenses with a roommate in order to make ends meet.

This year, in addition to Clinton High School attendees, students from Lincoln-Sudbury and Concord-Carlisle Regional High Schools as well as Clinton Middle School participated in the event.

Students from Nichols College served as ‘credit counselors’ and reviewed each student’s plan. They showed them where they were over budget and recommended adjusting their choices by eliminating some of the ‘wants’ in order to have enough for the necessities.

John O’Brien, President and CEO of Leominster Credit Union commented, “It is very rewarding to be a part of this event at Clinton High School. This Financial Fair presents real life experiences, creates awareness of financial circumstances and assists the students in preparing for their future. We’d like to thank Ellen Welch, Business Technology teacher for all her hard work, as well as those who took time out of their busy schedules to support this event including Leanne Martin Fay, of Economic Empowerment Program Director for Financial Education from the State Treasurer’s Office, Principal Jim Hastings and Superintendent of Schools Terrance Ingano.”

Kelly Marrone and Mychelle Phillips of LCU manage the Cable and Internet Utilities Table at the CU4 Reality Fair