Poverty Simulation Training

The Missouri Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) is a learning tool created to help people understand the realities of poverty. It consists of an experiential portion as well as a reflection debrief afterwards. During the simulation exercise, participants role-play the lives of low-income families.

A Poverty Simulation is a facilitated two-hour immersive experience designed to create awareness among participants of the challenges and barriers relating to poverty. Participants are assigned to “families” who do their best to survive week-to-week over a simulated one-month period.

Poverty is a reality for many individuals and families. But unless you've experienced poverty, it's difficult to truly understand. This interactive immersion experience bridges the gap from misconception to understanding about the effects of poverty. Through a series of role-playing scenarios, participants adopt a new persona and a family profile for the duration of the exercise. Poverty Simulations can enable participants to empathize with people living in poverty, reduce their misconceptions about people living in poverty and about governmental support, and improve their awareness of financial hardship, economic difficulties, government programs, and community resources.

Northeast PA AHEC partners with academic institutions, healthcare systems, and community organizations to offer this experience to health professions students and community members. Opportunities are available for participants to engage in the simulation in the role as a family member or community resource volunteer.

Be Part of the Solution: Participant Volunteer Roles

Family Member: Step into the shoes of someone facing poverty. You'll grapple with real-life dilemmas related to finances, housing, and healthcare, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges many face.

Community Resource: Empower families by offering guidance and resources. Represent local organizations and be a vital link to support services.

Help us create a realistic and impactful learning environment! Community organizations can volunteer in various roles within our simulated community, such as bankers, social workers, and employers. We're also seeking volunteers to portray Family Members and Community Resources. Contact us to explore how you can contribute to this unique and impactful experience.