Trumark Credit Union’s Reality Fairs Give Local Students a Crash Course in the Cost of Adulthood

Trumark Credit Union brought financial education to life for over 3,800 students across Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, and Philadelphia counties with eight “Reality Fairs” at local schools. Students got a reality check on budgeting, rent, groceries, student loans, and other expenses during these hands-on events before they head out on their own.

“Our Reality Fairs give students a real-world look at financial planning in a way that’s interactive and eye-opening,” said Denise Romanelli, Trumark Credit Union’s AVP of Corporate Social Responsibility. “Many students are shocked at how quickly expenses add up and how small choices can affect their financial future. These fairs provide an invaluable lesson in making smart budgeting decisions before it’s too late.”

The Reality Fair experience goes beyond textbook lessons. Students take on real-life financial scenarios with assigned salaries and obligations, making critical decisions about housing, transportation, food, and discretionary spending. The exercise highlights the importance of budgeting, financial planning and how small decisions can have long-term consequences.

Trumark hosted the following reality fairs in 2026:

Financial education remains a critical gap for young people, with the average financial literacy test score for students aged 15-18 at just 63.82% in Pennsylvania, according to the National Financial Educators Council. This lack of financial knowledge can lead to long-term financial struggles, making early education essential. By bringing Reality Fairs to local schools, Trumark is ensuring that young people gain budgeting skills and knowledge to have a successful financial future.