Balancing Budgets and Real-Life Choices: Credit Unions Use Bite of Reality Fairs to Teach Financial Literacy That Sticks

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 13, 2025

iQ Credit Union hosting a Bite of Reality fair at a Washington high school

Helping young people build strong money habits early is one of the most impactful ways credit unions invest in their communities. Building a solid foundation in financial literacy can shape a person’s future — influencing everything from career choices to long-term financial well-being.

To support this mission, the GoWest Foundation offers Bite of Reality financial reality fairs — engaging, app-based financial education experiences designed specifically for high school students. The interactive platform introduces teens to the real-life financial decisions they’ll face as adults in ways that are both practical and memorable.

During Bite of Reality fairs, hosted by credit unions across the region, students step into the shoes of a fictional adult persona and navigate everyday financial choices — from housing and transportation to food and entertainment. Along the way, they encounter common challenges like pushy car salespeople and surprise expenses, all while trying to stay on budget. Credit union professionals are on hand to guide conversations and answer questions, making the experience both fun and educational.

By meeting students where they are — and making financial literacy feel relevant and real — credit unions are helping young people gain the confidence and knowledge to take control of their financial futures.

So far in 2025 alone, 29 credit unions in the GoWest region have held 98 fairs, impacting 11,222 students.

“We hope that the surprise nature of the Bite of Reality gives students a reality check into the real financial challenges and opportunities that are headed their way,” shared Billy Thomas, Peninsula Credit Union’s Director of Marketing.

That element of surprise — combined with real-world relevance — is what makes the experience so effective. Other credit union leaders echo this sentiment, emphasizing how the simulation gives students a chance to learn by doing.

“Bite of Reality offers students a safe and engaging way to practice financial literacy, learn from their mistakes, and improve their decision-making skills before stepping into the real world,” explained Teagan Werden, Colorado Credit Union’s Community Impact Manager.

And it’s not just informative — it’s memorable. The hands-on nature of the program helps students connect emotionally with the choices they’re making, which deepens the learning experience.

“Students always love going through the simulation. They get to experience some of the real emotions of trying to balance their finances, support their families and make those hard and important financial decisions,” Sarah Buck, Director of Experiences at Forrit Credit Union said. “They always walk away with a better understanding of some of the new responsibilities they are about to take on as they set out on their own for the first time.”

GoWest member credit unions can apply for Bite of Reality kits for schools in their communities. Each kit contains everything necessary to put on an event, including tablets and participant, facilitator, and outreach materials.

For more information, contact the GoWest Foundation team at [email protected].

Posted in Community Impact, Financial Education, GoWest Foundation, Top Headlines.