CAMDEN, Tenn. (May 18, 2023) – On My Own, a financial education program for the Benton County youth, occurred May 8 and 12, 2023. One hundred and seventy-one Benton County 4-H members participated in a simulation that allowed them to experience the life of a 26-year-old. The simulation challenged students with the extensive financial choices a majority provider must make each day.
On My Own was hosted by the Family and Consumer Sciences department of The University of Tennessee Extension, and was delivered by the University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University Extension. Holladay School and Big Sandy School 8th graders completed the simulation in the Camden Central High School’s cafeteria and Camden Jr. High’s gymnasium.
“On My Own is a great way for students to realize the connection between personal lifestyle choices and financial well-being,” said Crystal Floyd, a 4-H agent at Camden Jr High. “It encourages the knowledge gained to be put into practice when they become financially responsible for their own lives.”
The Benton County Electric System also brought their service truck for the students to explore while Benton County Electric Company employees shared career opportunities with them.
The simulation informs students about their upcoming financial choices and encourage decisions to create financial stability. Local community stakeholders, partners, and volunteers invested their time to contribute to this unique experience.
For more information about how students can get involved in Benton County 4-H Clubs or the programs they offer, please contact Crystal Floyd, Extension Agent 4-H Youth Development, at (731) 584-4601 or email cryrfloy@utk.edu.
Benton County Schools operates six schools and the Benton County Career and Technical Center. For more information about these award nominees, contact Mark Florence, Director of Benton County Schools, at (731) 584-6111 or email mark.florence@bcos.org.