About the Event
The Galaxy Springs Reality Simulation is a dynamic, immersive learning experience designed to equip students with practical financial literacy skills through a hands-on simulation of real-life decision-making. This event aligns with national best practices outlined by the FDIC’s Money Smart curriculum and introduces youth to critical concepts such as budgeting, saving, credit, and financial planning.
A reality fair is a simulation of an adult’s financial life that provides youth with an interactive experience for making real world financial decisions and managing money. Participants experience what it is like to have an account at a financial institution, decide how to use their money, obtain a loan, manage debt, and more. For youth, a reality fair can be an eye-opening, exciting, and fun way to build financial knowledge and skills. Each year, reality fairs are hosted nationwide. Often held in partnership with youth serving organizations and schools. Financial Institutions also support fairs led by other organizations by helping with planning, contributing resources, and providing staff support.
Event Overview
Students are assigned life profiles with careers, salaries, expenses, and debt. From there, they rotate through a series of interactive stations, such as housing, transportation, childcare, insurance, and banking, making real-world financial choices based on their assigned life circumstances.
This 3-hour experience includes:
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A pre-briefing to explain the simulation
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Rotations through 10+ stations
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A “Curveball” volunteer to simulate life’s unexpected events
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A reflection circle for debriefing and guided discussion
Date: April 25, 2026
Location: Viera Regional Community Center Gymnasium
Time: 9 AM - 3 PM
Agenda:
Morning Session:
Arrival: 9:00AM - 9:15AM
Introduction: 9:15AM - 9:45AM
Simulation and Debrief: 9:45AM - 12:00PM
Afternoon Session:
Arrival: 12:15PM - 12:30PM
Introduction: 12:30PM - 1:00PM
Simulation and Debrief: 1:00PM - 3:15PM
Benefits to the Students
Financial Confidence
Students learn how to budget and track spending with real-time decision-making.
Critical Thinking
Encourages thoughtful evaluation of needs vs. wants and managing limited resources.
Future Readiness
Prepares students for real-world adult responsibilities, from managing bills to taking care of dependents.
Economic Equity
Levels the playing field by exposing all students to tools and knowledge often ignored.
Community Engagement
Connects students to local banks, credit unions, and professionals who serve as mentors through the experience.
Social-Emotional Growth
Boosts confidence and resilience as students face simulated setbacks and navigate tough situations.
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