More than 350 students attended a recent CU 4 Reality fair sponsored by Holy Rosary Credit Union (HRCU), Rochester, New Hampshire, and Northeast Credit Union (NECU) of Portsmouth for Spaulding High School and home-schooled students.  number of credit union staff were on hand to volunteer and work with the Spaulding High School and home-schooled students who participated in the event.

CU 4 Reality fairs are fun and exciting events, where students learn how to manage a monthly budget, save money and plan for unexpected expenses based on the careers, and salaries, they choose for themselves. At the end of these events, students sit down with credit union volunteers to review and discuss the results of their decisions. 

"The CU 4 Reality program is a fantastic approach to introducing students to real world financial decision-making," stated Tim Collia, Northeast Credit Union president and CEO. "The kids take on the challenge with enthusiasm, and come away with their eyes open to the importance of smart spending habits. We believe the fairs truly have a lasting impact on the students."

"Between our high school branch and assisting with events like CU 4 Reality, we are very proud to continue helping the education of the youth in our community on financial literacy," commented Brian Hughes, president and CEO of HRCU. "Something we always hear from adults is that they wished programs like CU 4 Reality existed when they were students. It really can be eye-opening to see first-hand what the real cost of living can be. Providing this education early on is a real bonus to students."

Staff from HRCU and NECU volunteered as advisors for the event as did representatives from local businesses that included Bernier Insurance, Northeast Planning Associates, NH Banking Department, NH Department of Education, Broadview Animal Hospital, Hannaford, First City Motor Sales, CU Alliance, Delta Management Associates, Hourihane, Cormier & Associates, Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, and Spaulding High School's guidance counselors.