Financial Reality Fairs Grow Leaps and Bounds in 2025

Last year, credit unions across NJ and PA demonstrated true dedication to bringing financial education to our youth through Financial Reality Fairs, which provide a hands-on simulation for practicing budgeting. In total, they hosted 90 Fairs, reaching over 17,300 students with the help of over 2,000 volunteers!

These events were held in high schools, technical schools, and colleges and have been expanding to nonprofits, government agencies, correctional institutions, and more. Some of these special partnerships are with the PA Department of Human Services, PA Department of Corrections, NJ Department of Human Services, and NJ Juvenile Justice Commission.

Fairs were held mainly in spring (March–May) and fall (Oct–Dec) and have widespread reach. There were 11 in Northern New Jersey, 11 in Southern New Jersey, and over 20 in each of the three regions of PA. 

In addition, with the guidance of an 80-member Financial Education Collaborative, the CrossState Credit Union Foundation now annually updates the materials for the Fairs. In 2025, a Financial Tips information sheet was created as well as talking points for the volunteers. (A grateful shout-out to the Greater Reading Reality Fair Committee for sharing their information!) The Collaborative meets quarterly to discuss best practices and share resources. Many members participate in each other’s Fairs and help recruit volunteers.

We look forward to an even stronger year of financial education in 2026! Check out our website for more on what a Financial Reality Fair is, how to get started, and where to find a Fair kit.

Have you recently held a Fair or planned an upcoming one? Don’t forget to tell us all about it!