Newsletter 2026 V2 Article - Reality Fair for High School Students
This March, UMassFive partnered with Greenfield Community College and MassHire Franklin Hampshire to host two Reality Fair events for high school students from across Franklin and Hampshire counties. Approximately 400 students from 12 area high schools came to the campus of Greenfield Community College to take part in the interactive financial simulation, designed to help young people understand the real-world financial decisions they will face as adults.
Originally developed by credit unions as a financial education program, the Reality Fair attendees were asked to imagine themselves at age 25. Each participant selected a career and was assigned a corresponding starting salary. Students then moved through a series of stations where they made real-life budgeting choices about housing, transportation, food, clothing, and other everyday expenses. After completing the exercise, students met with volunteer financial counselors from UMassFive to review their spending decisions and discuss strategies for balancing their budget.
Beyond financial decision-making, the event also introduced students to local resources that support career and educational pathways. During the program, students toured the campus of Greenfield Community College to learn about educational opportunities available through the community college and connect with career exploration resources available through MassHire Franklin Hampshire.
purple
Knowing the impact of this event stretches beyond the participants, spreading financial wellness to their families and friends in turn, we are so proud to serve our community through Reality Fair and we look forward to more in the future!
blue