ReThink Poverty Simulation

The Missouri Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) helps break down stereotypes by allowing participants to step into the real life situations of others. 

Poverty is often portrayed as a stand alone issue - but this simulation allows individuals to walk a month in the shoes of someone who is facing poverty and realize how complex and interconnected issues of poverty really are.

  • A single parent with limited resources and no transportation must find a way to get to work and get their child to daycare.

  • An elderly person must find a way to pay for both utilities and medication.

  • A young adult must care for siblings while their parent is incarcerated.

  • An elderly couple must raise their grandchildren and deal with their own health and employment issues

After the experience, individuals then have the opportunity to discuss what they’ve learned with their peers. CAPS is a tool that helps participants rethink the challenges that millions of low income individuals must face each and every day. More importantly, this tool helps people identify areas of change that can directly impact the effects of poverty on individuals, families, and communities.

Overview

  • The entire simulation takes three hours plus set-up and tear down time.

  • Simulations can be done for colleges, businesses, schools, churches or civic groups. A minimum of 50 participants are required to put on a simulation. Simulations will hold up to 80 participants.

  • A 3,000 square feet room, 20 tables, and 100 chairs are required.

  • Project Iowa in partnership with the Center for Social Ministry coordinates the Missouri Community Action Poverty Simulation in the Des Moines metro area.

  • There is a cost to offer the simulation.

Attention Social Workers

We are excited to announce that Social Workers can obtain CEUs by participating in the Poverty Simulation. You will receive three contact hours for participating in a Poverty Simulation. CEU certificates will be provided following the simulation.

Please note that it is the responsibility of the individual to be familiar with the CEU requirements of their professional license board. Licenses should retain course materials and certificates for four years for auditing purposes. 

Upcoming Simulations

Community Poverty Simulation
Thursday, November 14 - 9:30 a.m. to noon
Franklin Junior High School, 4801 Franklin Ave., Room 106, Des Moines, IA 50310

Want to Learn More?

To receive more information (cost, logistics, dates) on hosting a Rethink Poverty Simulation, please fill out the short form below. Thank you!