Poverty Simulation
Interactive experience
In
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43.5 million Americans
lived in poverty
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That's 14.3%
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What is a "Poverty Simulation"
An interactive experience aimed at helping your community understand poverty." |
The Poverty Simulation is a unique, enlightening experience that helps individuals begin to understand what life is like with a shortage of money and an abundance of stress. It moves people to think about the harsh realities of poverty and to talk about how communities can address the problem collectively. Most importantly, it encourages people to make a difference.
In the simulation, participants assume the roles families facing a variety of challenging, but typical circumstances. Some are homeless, others have recently become unemployed, and some are suddenly faced with the responsibility of raising grandchildren.
To start the simulation, each family is given a card explaining its unique situation, as well as a small amount of “money.” Then, the families must secure food, shelter, and other basic necessities by accessing the various resources during the course of four “weeks.” |
Do you need volunteers?
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Volunteers play the roles of resource providers, such as social workers, loan officers, employers, pawnbrokers, grocers, utility collectors, police officers, and teachers.
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How much space do you need?
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The program is conducted in a large room. Participants are seated in family clusters, and community resources are located at tables around the perimeter of the room.
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How much time is required?
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The activity lasts approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on group size and includes:
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Support
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Company |
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