- Poverty Simulation program is designed to help individuals better understand poverty by stepping into the real-life situations of others struggling with, and living in, poverty. This helps to raise awareness and increase our understanding of the challenges individuals and families living in poverty face each day.
- Mad City Money is a hands-on simulation that gives youth a taste of the real world – complete with career, salary, spouse, student loan debt, credit card debt, and medical insurance payments. They select housing, transportation, food, clothing, childcare – all while building their budget. Students experience unexpected windfalls and unplanned expenses, just like real life. Participants learn how basic personal finance skills can help them avoid financial problems in the future and gain a valuable new perspective on their choices with money.
Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union (MMFCU) recently increased their ability to provide more financial education to the communities of Ada, Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Staples, and Wadena. Nicole Pfeffer will take her 20 years of experience in the financial industry helping members to classrooms, businesses, and community events as a new Community Outreach Specialist. Mid Minnesota knows that the financial world can feel intimidating. In fact, a recent survey of our members indicated that 60% are only somewhat financially knowledgeable. This is no surprise given the frequent changes in finances, tools to manage your money, and decisions that feel like high stakes. "This is why we're passionate about helping our members and community build financial literacy. Our team at MMFCU has plenty of expertise and we want to share it with you. By having two of us delivering this information and helping the communities we can have a bigger impact," said Jill Casper, Vice President of Community Engagement. In 2022, MMFCU provided 4,120 hours of financial education free of charge in the communities we serve. "I am going to miss working each day with the Alexandria team helping our members. But am excited to reach more people in Ada, Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Staples, and Wadena with financial education!," said Nicole. Most of MMFCU's work is in the classroom and with existing organizations already serving those needing additional financial education. They have partnered with more than 20 school districts, businesses and organizations. Topics include Money Management, Identity Theft, and Credit Reports. In addition, they offer two simulations that groups can experience: