Real Money, Real World

Real Money Real World is a hands-on experiential program created by Ohio State University Extension that provides young people an opportunity to make lifestyle and budget choices similar to those they will be facing as adults in real life. Students are provided an occupation, salary, and family information (0 – 3 children). After subtracting taxes, health insurance and savings amount, they are left with their net balance to be used to purchase services or obligations ranging from housing, utilities, food, childcare, clothing, transportation, insurance, communications, outstanding debt, entertainment and charitable contributions. They also have an opportunity to receive financial counseling if needed.

United Way of the Greater Dayton Area participated in the first two Real Money Real World events held in Montgomery County as representatives for charitable contributions. On May 20, Terri Leputa, Campaign Manager, and Lindsey Jarvis, Volunteer Connection Manager, spent time with 150 9th graders at Oakwood High School explaining about the value of giving back to their community. On May 21, United Way Campaign Managers Terri Leputa and Shirley Smith introduced 130 8th graders at Valley View Middle School to the importance of donating and presented options for giving (whether it be money or giving through volunteerism).

Initial response from the students as well as volunteers, teachers and OSU Extension representatives has been highly positive. At United Way of the Greater Dayton Area, we enthusiastically support Real Money Real World and other programs that help introduce young people to the importance of financial stability. We are grateful to the Ohio State Extension office as well as Oakwood High School and Valley View Middle School for including us in this event and we welcome future opportunities to partner with local schools and businesses in events focused on positive youth development, financial stability and health and well being.

Click here to view photos from the event!