From UWCK
United Way of Central Kansas will be hosting Reality U in Ellinwood next week, bringing an engaging, hands-on learning experience to 8th and 10th grade students from Ellinwood, Hoisington, Chase, Central Plains, and St. Joseph’s.
Reality U is an interactive financial literacy and life-skills simulation that allows students to step into their future at age 26. Based on their education plans and career choices, students will navigate real-life financial decisions such as housing, transportation, insurance, childcare, utilities, and everyday expenses—helping them better understand how today’s choices impact tomorrow’s opportunities.
The event will be made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsor Sunflower Bank, whose commitment to financial education helps strengthen students and communities across the region. Booth sponsors for this event are TriAg, Ellinwood Hospital & Clinic, People’s Bank & Trust, and the Ellinwood Public Education and Library Foundation. Without their support, UWCK would not be able to bring this program to over 250 local students.
In addition to the financial simulation, students will participate in breakout sessions led by local organizations and professionals, including:
· Digital Safety – Nex-Tech
· Cost of Delinquency – Ellinwood & Hoisington Police Departments
· Job Interviewing – KANSASWORKS
· Entrepreneurship – Great Bend Economic Development
· Stress & Anxiety Management – The Center for Counseling & Consultation
· Banking & Finance – Sunflower Bank
· Volunteering & Goal Setting – Golden Belt Community Foundation
· Youth Crew – Barton County Juvenile Services
· College 101 – Barton Community College
Reality U plays a critical role in preparing students for adulthood by connecting education, career paths, financial responsibility, and community involvement. By experiencing the realities of budgeting and decision-making in a supportive environment, students will gain practical knowledge, confidence, and a clearer understanding of what it takes to build a stable future.
United Way of Central Kansas looks forward to partnering with area schools, sponsors, speakers, and volunteers to make this impactful event possible.