2023 Manitowoc Chamber Reality Stores

Reality Stores are financial literacy events in which students learn basic skills in financial planning, goal setting, decision making, and career planning. The Reality Store will help students examine their attitudes about their futures and career expectations. After their trip through The Reality Store, students will have developed a more realistic idea of the financial impact their future decisions will have.

How it works: Prior to the event students choose the future career and receive their monthly salary deposited in their checking account. Students enter The Reality Store with their check book. They first stop at “Uncle Sam” for their tax deduction. They then proceed to “The Bank/Credit Union” for their student loan deduction. Students then have to visit 13 other booths making purchases for their life. Ex: buy a car, home, groceries, utilities, etc.

Admissions advisors will: Engage with high school students in our district by staffing one of the various booths to assist students in making wise financial choices based on their salary.