Gettysburg Area High School will host a hands-on financial literacy and career-readiness program next month, and organizers are seeking adult volunteers to help guide students through the daylong experience.
Junior Achievement of South Central Pennsylvania will bring its “REAL Life” program to the high school on Friday, April 17. The event is expected to run approximately from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., though specific reporting times for volunteers will be provided closer to the date.
The program is designed to help high school students better understand the financial and career decisions they will face as adults. During the event, students take part in interactive activities that simulate real-world financial situations and workplace scenarios. ([Junior
Organizers say volunteers play a key role in making the program work by leading activities and guiding students through exercises focused on budgeting, career exploration, and interview preparation.
One of the main activities, known as “Budget Builder,” assigns each student a fictional adult life scenario that includes information such as job, salary, education, and family responsibilities. Students must then build a monthly budget and make spending decisions based on that scenario, helping them understand how everyday financial choices affect long-term stability.
Other activities expose students to career possibilities and workplace expectations. These include games and discussions centered on interview skills, the costs of everyday living, and other aspects of independent adult life. The program is aimed primarily at upper-level high school students who are preparing to enter the workforce, college or technical training after graduation.
The day is structured so that students rotate through multiple activity stations while volunteers facilitate discussions and help teams work through different challenges. Volunteers are typically assigned to a single activity and lead it repeatedly as different groups of students move through the program during the day.
Organizers say volunteers do not need previous teaching experience or expertise in financial literacy. Training materials and instructions are provided ahead of the event, and Junior Achievement staff and teachers will be present throughout the day to assist.
Participants will also receive virtual training and on-site support before working with students. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided for volunteers during the program.
Junior Achievement of South Central Pennsylvania offers similar programs across the region to help students learn practical life skills such as financial decision-making, budgeting and career readiness through hands-on learning experiences. ([Junior Achievement of South Central PA][2])
Community members interested in volunteering for the Gettysburg event can register online.
Registration link: https://form.jotform.com/212215942576962
Source: GASD