NASHVILLE – First Commerce Credit Union recently hosted its first-ever Financial Fitness Fair at Berrien High School.

In partnership with BHS administration, FCCU guided more than 125 high school seniors through an interactive, reality-based challenge about the financial side of life to kick off National Financial Literacy Month in April, organizers said in a statement.

Seniors participating in the event each received a fictitious career, family profile and monthly income and rotated through different “life choice” stations.

Led by First Commerce team members and teachers, the students were asked to make decisions about various expense categories, such as transportation, housing, food, childcare, entertainment, etc. They also consulted with local experts for advice on saving and investing, building credit, getting a loan, as well as learning about protection from identity theft and fraud.

“First Commerce is committed to helping people of all ages enhance their financial well-being and the Financial Fitness Fair was a fun and interactive way to educate teens about developing good financial habits that will benefit them for a lifetime,” said Cecilia Homison, First Commerce chief executive officer. “We were thrilled by the positive feedback from the students and faculty who participated and plan to expand and make this an annual event.”

The experience proved to be eye opening for many of the students who shared comments such as, “I never thought about money and budgeting and expenses this way until today.” Another student said, “I realize I need to get better at saving money instead of spending it as soon as I get it.”

One student even noted they were rethinking their whole life plan.

“The fair was a great way for our students to experience what it’s like to make important life decisions and manage their finances as they prepare for life after high school,” Berrien High School Principal Angie Lovein said. “We appreciate First Commerce for all they do in our community and for their continued commitment to invest in the financial wellness of students and families in our community.”