Southern Energy Kicks Off Financial Literacy Month with ‘Bite of Reality’ at Georgia Power Headquarters

April is Financial Literacy Month, and Southern Energy Credit Union is highlighting a recent hands-on financial education experience made possible through its ongoing partnership with Southern Company. Held at Georgia Power Corporate Headquarters in Atlanta, the event brought together students and employee-volunteers for a day focused on practical money skills and future planning.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment by Southern Company and Southern Energy Credit Union to empower students with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to make informed financial decisions—both now and as they prepare for adulthood.

The event brought together high school students from DeKalb County Schools and Southern Company volunteers for an immersive learning experience focused on real-world money management, career exploration, and financial decision-making.

Understanding Needs, Wants, and the Cost of Living

Kim Lovingood, Director of Retirement and Financial Wellbeing, led Southern Company volunteers as they kicked off the day with an engaging discussion centered on needs versus wants, the cost of living, and the importance of understanding financial trade-offs. Through relatable examples and open conversation, students explored how everyday choices—such as housing, transportation, and entertainment—can directly impact long-term financial stability.

Terry Owens, Engagement Program Manager in Workforce Development with Georgia Power, also highlighted career development opportunities, helping students make the connection between career paths, income potential, and future financial planning. This portion of the event reinforced the idea that financial wellness begins with understanding both earning potential and responsible spending habits.

Experiencing Real-World Finances Through ‘Bite of Reality’

Following the discussion, Southern Energy Credit Union volunteers led students through a ‘Bite of Reality’ simulation—an interactive, app-based experience that places participants in the role of an adult navigating real-world financial responsibilities.

During the simulation, students received fictional personas complete with occupations, salaries, credit scores, families, and debt obligations. With those profiles, students visited Merchant Stations within the app, making decisions on essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, childcare, and entertainment while working to stay within a monthly budget.

The simulation provided a safe and engaging environment for students to experience the consequences of financial decisions, encouraging critical thinking, prioritization, and personal accountability.

“This was my second Financial Literacy and Bite of Reality event with the Credit Union, and each time I’m reminded how impactful this experience is for students,” said Danielle Mitchener, Southern Energy Marketing Specialist. “Watching them pause, rethink decisions, and adjust their budgets shows just how powerful hands-on financial education can be.”

Building Connection Through Purpose-Driven Service

For many volunteers, the event was not only educational for students but also deeply meaningful on a personal level.

“This was my first Financial Literacy and Bite of Reality event, and I absolutely loved it,” said Jamerial Larkin, Business Development Specialist with Southern Energy. “Being able to connect with students and see them truly engaged in learning about their future made the purpose of this initiative feel very real and personal. It was rewarding to know that we’re helping set them up for success beyond the classroom.”

Caitlin Brothers, External Affairs Manager for the Credit Union, lead the simulation and added, “Events like these reflect Southern Energy Credit Union’s broader mission to empower students through financial education while strengthening partnerships within the Southern Company family. By bringing financial concepts to life through interactive experiences, students are better prepared to navigate the financial realities they will face after graduation.”

Celebrating Financial Literacy Month

As Financial Literacy Month begins, Southern Energy Credit Union is proud to continue delivering impactful programming that builds confidence, encourages smart decision-making, and connects students to real-world financial skills.

Thank you to the Southern Company volunteers, educators, and administrators who helped make this experience possible. Together, we are creating meaningful opportunities that prepare the next generation for financial success—one Bite of Reality at a time.