Volunteers needed for “Reality Store” at Highland Middle School

The wheels on the bus have started going round and round, which means, The Reality Store program is near.

This year, “The Store,” which is sponsored by the Highland Business Women’s Club, is scheduled at Highland Middle School on Friday, Sept. 18 and will run from 8 to 11 a.m.

The Reality Store is a skills simulation for eighth-grade students during which each participant chooses a career that matches his/her interest and abilities. The student receives a monthly paycheck and experiences the financial obligations that adults deal with in every day life.

Business representatives and volunteers are needed to operate “stations” at which the students pay taxes, obtain housing, transportation and insurance. They purchase groceries, clothing and pay for child care. They plan leisure activities as they can afford and even spin a “Wheel of Fortune” to experience some of life’s unexpected events.

“For the program to run smoothly, about 40 volunteers the day off is required,” said Susie Dewaele, a member of the Highland Business Women’s Club and an event organizer.

Those interested in assisting can email to Dewaele at susiebullit@yahoo.com or call her at 618) 520-7039.

“If you are not, but can send someone from your business and/or a family or friend, all are welcome,” Dewaele said.

A sign-up form is attached to this article. Organizers ask volunteers to respond by Aug. 21.

This story was originally published August 13, 2015 at 7:33 AM with the headline "Volunteers needed for “Reality Store” at Highland Middle School."