Poverty Simulator Volunteer 11/4/2020

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Poverty simulations are a series of role-playing scenarios that give participants the opportunity to learn about the realities of poverty and its impact on society as a whole. Participants adopt a new persona and family profile for the purpose of the exercise.

Usually, Poverty Simulations are held in person, but because of the challenges of COVID-19, we have adapted and created a virtual option using Zoom. Participants of the virtual simulation navigate through daily tasks that many of us take for granted. During four timed "weeks", those assigned adult roles try to maintain their home, feed their families, send their children to school, and retain utility services while trying to navigate local supports and resources. Those assuming the roles of children have an opportunity to see what it is like to go to school and cope with family dynamics, peer pressure, and the need for love and attention within the context of a family in poverty. The outcome of the simulation is unpredictable and demonstrates how strategizing with limited resources can make the meeting even the most basic needs very challenging for a family.

Participants will be utilizing Zoom breakout rooms to meet with their family and a volunteer family facilitator. CAP provides the volunteers with a ratio of one volunteer to 3-5 participants. The family facilitator will act as a helper for the family and will also act as the different vendors or resources the family may need to access. Family assignments will be given prior to the simulation.

A poverty simulation can be a profoundly moving experience. It is thought-provoking and promotes insightful conversation about the realities of poverty. It demonstrates the importance of a community working together to address the problem of poverty. Most importantly, it inspires action and moves people to get involved in making a difference.

As the simulation concludes, participants come together to discuss their experiences. The power of this unique learn-ing resource is its ability to provide real insight into the barriers that low-income families face daily and to motivate participants to work for change in their communities.