United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK) announces the return of #RealWorld, a program designed to equip high school seniors with crucial life skills as they prepare to embark on their post-graduation journeys. Building upon the success of Reality U, which debuted in Great Bend in 2016, UWCK has expanded its efforts to further bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world challenges.
Scheduled for March 22nd and 27th, #RealWorld will be hosted across multiple schools in the area, including Ellinwood, Great Bend, Hoisington, and Larned. UWCK collaborated closely with each school district to tailor the event to the specific needs and concerns of their students. The program aims to address topics that are often overlooked in traditional curricula but are essential for navigating adulthood successfully.
Through engaging presentations and interactive sessions, #RealWorld will cover a range of pertinent subjects, including financial literacy, car maintenance, leases, healthcare basics, and more. Expert speakers from various fields will share insights and practical advice, empowering students to make informed decisions as they transition into independent living.
One of the key aspects of #RealWorld is its emphasis on sparking meaningful conversations between students and their families about the challenges and responsibilities they will face beyond high school. By fostering open dialogue, UWCK hopes to facilitate a smoother transition for both students and their support networks.
“We are thrilled to bring #RealWorld back to our community for another year,” said Charell Owings, Executive Director of UWCK. “Empowering our youth with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the real world is central to our mission. We are deeply grateful to our partners, including the participating school districts and each of our speakers, for their invaluable support in making this event possible.”
Wheatland Electric has generously provided water for both speakers and students throughout the event.
As the date approaches, excitement is mounting among students, educators, and organizers alike. #RealWorld promises to be an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impact on the lives of participating seniors, setting them on the path to success and self-sufficiency.
For more information about #RealWorld and other initiatives by United Way of Central Kansas, please visit www.uwck.org or contact Owings at 620-792-2403.
Event details by school district
Ellinwood High School will take place on March 22nd.
How to maintain your car- Learn how to check tire pressure, oil levels, and what to do if the check engine light comes on. Before you road trip home or for fun, make sure your car is in good shape to make the trip.
Presented by Bradley Ensz
Apartment hunting 10- Learn what to look for in an apartment, a landlord, and a roommate. Sometimes your best friend won’t be your best bet to live with.
Presented by Amy Kubick, Joiner Properties
How to manage your stress- Learn techniques to manage your stress and anxiety when your support system is far away. Past the point of managing? Find out how to get more help.
Presented by Ellinwood Hospital & Clinics
Financial Knowledge- earn about credit cards, interest rates, student loans, and overdrafts. Making money isn’t the only way to grow your wealth. Being smart and making informed decisions can go a long ways to the life you envision.
Presented by Sunflower Bank
Great Bend High School will take place on March 22nd
How to maintain your car- Learn how to check tire pressure, oil levels, and what to do if the check engine light comes on. Before you road trip home or for fun, make sure your car is in good shape to make the trip.
Presented by Marmie Auto Group, Tim Nollette
Apartment hunting 10- Learn what to look for in an apartment, a landlord, and a roommate. Sometimes your best friend won’t be your best bet to live with.
Presented by MPIRE Realty Group, Aaron Andrews
How to manage your stress- Learn techniques to manage your stress and anxiety when your support system is far away. Past the point of managing? Find out how to get more help.
Presented by The Center for Counseling & Consultation, Shanna Long
Financial Knowledge- earn about credit cards, interest rates, student loans, and overdrafts. Making money isn’t the only way to grow your wealth. Being smart and making informed decisions can go a long ways to the life you envision.
Presented by First Kansas Bank, Jay Leuerman
Hoisington High School will take place on March 22nd
What to do if you get sick- Learn the basics of what type of medical visit you need and when. What is health insurance and how does it work? Get the basics of making sure you know what to do when you get sick.
Presented by Clara Barton Medical Center
Apartment Hunting 101- Learn what to look for in an apartment, a landlord, and a roommate. Sometimes your best friend won’t be your best bet to live with.
Presented by Nicci Henderson, MPIRE Realty
How to manage your stress- Learn techniques to manage your stress and anxiety when your support system is far away. Past the point of managing? Find out how to get more help.
Presented by Clara Barton Medical Center
Financial Knowledge- Learn about credit cards, interest rates, student loans, and overdrafts. Making money isn’t the only way to grow your wealth. Being smart and making informed decisions can go a long ways to the life you envision.
Presented by Eric Schoendaler, First Kansas Bank
Larned High School will take place on March 27th
How to maintain your car- Learn how to check tire pressure, oil levels, and what to do if the check engine light comes on. Before you road trip home or for fun, make sure your car is in good shape to make the trip.
Presented by Zach Hampton, Chromotize
What to do if you get sick- Learn the basics of what type of medical visit you need and when. What is health insurance and how does it work? Get the basics of making sure you know what to do when you get sick.
Presented by Pawnee Valley Community Hospital
Apartment Hunting 101- Learn what to look for in an apartment, a landlord, and a roommate. Sometimes your best friend won’t be your best bet to live with.
Presented by Lisa Schartz, Picket Fence Realty
How to manage your stress- Learn techniques to manage your stress and anxiety when your support system is far away. Past the point of managing? Find out how to get more help.
Presented by Shanna Long, The Center for Counseling & Consultation
Know when to walk away- Learn about red flags in relationships and how to step away. Keep yourself safe by knowing what to look for in unhealthy relationships-be that friends or romantic.
Presented by Family Crisis Center
