Practical Matters Reality Fair

Have you had YOUR reality check? This is the question of the day that our youth will have to answer as they attend their Second Annual Practical Matters Reality Fair. Youth ages 14-21 will step into the practical world of adulthood and learn what to expect in everyday life. Each youth will choose a career they are interested in and be given a mock paycheck equivalent to one month's salary. They will be asked to complete a task of making a series of life choices and the challenge is to stay within their budget, balancing a monthly income with normal living expenses.  

Upon arriving at the Practical Matters Reality Fair, each youth will receive a folder with a mock paycheck stub for one month's salary as well as a check register. Their assignment will be to visit mandatory booths for housing, utilities, insurance, transportation, and groceries. They will also have to visit the mall, traveling, entertainment, charitable contributions and furniture booths. All youth will be randomly assigned marital status and number of children and unexpected life events. If any youth runs out of money, they will be offered financial counseling to assist them on options to make their finances work effectively. Community volunteers and staff will also be available to assist youth in making positive decisions in their budgeting and life choices.

After the Reality Fair portion of the event is completed, youth will be able to connect with educational and technical institutes as well as several career professionals from all over the Atlanta Metro area. They will be able to ask questions and explore educational and career options.

Lunch will be "on your own" at the available restaurants in the Georgia Tech Student Center.