SPOKANE, Wash. — Four local credit unions brought financial education to life Tuesday when more than 1,500 high school students gathered at the Spokane Convention Center for Money IRL, a first-of-its-kind event designed to prepare teenagers for real-world money management.
Gesa Credit Union, STCU, Numerica Credit Union and BECU collaborated to create an experience that transforms traditional financial lessons into practical, hands-on learning. Students from around 10 Spokane County school districts participated in interactive challenges and heard from motivational speakers throughout the day.
A highlight of the event was the “Bite of Reality” simulation, which placed students in adult scenarios. Each participant received a fictional career, income and family, then navigated a full month of expenses while making everyday financial decisions and managing unexpected costs. The exercise gave students a tangible sense of budgeting and financial responsibility they’ll face after graduation.
“The goal is really to make a positive impression on students and to get them to realize it is not too early for them to start thinking about their personal finance goals,” said Amanda Swan with Numerica Credit Union. “They may feel like it is a long way out. We really want them to feel inspired and powered to own their financial future.”
Beyond the simulation, students engaged with financial experts and participated in various educational activities designed to build confidence in managing money.
Organizers indicated they plan to bring Money IRL back next year, hoping to expand the event and reach even more students across the region.
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