Bite of Reality is a hands-on app based simulation that appeals to teens while giving them a taste of real-world financial realities. Teens are given a fictional occupation, salary, credit score, spouse and a child, student loan debt, credit card debt, and medical insurance payments. The teens then walk around to various table-top stations to “purchase” housing, transportation, food, clothing, and other needs. Fortunately, the game also includes a “credit union” to help with their financial needs

This interactive activity will teach teens how to make financial decisions and give them a better understanding of the challenges of living on a budget. Teens will have to deal with a pushy “car salesperson” and a commission-based “realtor,” and weigh their wants versus their needs. There’s even a “Fickle Finger of Fate” that will give the students unexpected “expenses” or “windfalls”—just like in real life.

We are excited to partner with SIU Credit Union and the Carterville High School to bring this event in-person to CHS students this Spring. The event will take place during the PE period, so you'll be interacting with various age groups and backgrounds. Morning and Afternoon shifts are available with 4+ people working per shift at each expense/information station. Cost information will be provided to you and we would like various Chamber members per industry available. This is a great event to have one-on-one interaction with students and get to know the consumers of tomorrow!

• Housing
• Transportation
• Food
• Child Care
• Entertainment – activities, vacations
• Household Needs – furnishings
• Clothing / Personal Care
• Shopping – phone, TV, charitable donations
• Credit Union / Bank

Floater shifts are also available for trouble shooting and helping students go to all the stations in the time allowed.

Event Details

Thursday 3/28/24
8:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location: Carterville High School
1415 W Grand Ave, Carterville, IL 62918