Friday, June 6, 2025
2:30 - 4:45 p.m.
Gustavus Adolphus College
800 W. College Ave., St. Peter, MN
All are welcome! Only 80 participants will be able to experience this simulation. You do not need to be a registered synod assembly voting member to attend, however this is one of the learning opportunities provided at the assembly for voting members.
All must sign up to save your spot!
Presented by United Community Action Agency Partnership
Helping People ~ Changing Lives ~ Eliminating Poverty
AA/EOE/ADA
The poverty simulation experience is designed to help participants begin to understand what it might be like to live in a typical low-income family trying to survive from month to month. It is a simulation, not a game. The object is to sensitize participants to the realities faced by low-income people.
Share with your congregation!
Click here to download simulation flyer.
Synod Assembly Workshop:
Poverty Simulation – Walk a Mile in Their Shoes.
Organization: United Community Action Agency Partnership.
Leader: Deb Brandt.
Place: Heritage & St Peter Room(s), 2:30 – 4:45 pm.
Description: The poverty simulation experience aims to help participants grasp what it might be like to live in a typical low-income family, struggling to make ends meet month after month. This is a simulation, not a game, designed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by low-income individuals.
The simulation takes place in a large room, with the "families" seated in groups at the center. Surrounding them are tables representing various community resources and services, including a bank, super center, Community Action Agency, employer, utility company, pawn broker, grocery store, social service agency, faith-based organization, payday and title loan facility, mortgage company, school, community health center, police officer, and childcare center.
A minimum of 60 and up to 80 participants will take on the roles of 26 different families experiencing poverty. Additionally, around 20 volunteers are needed to staff the community resource tables. Advance registration is required, and it's crucial to follow through with your commitment, as the simulation will be canceled if we fall below the required numbers. Past participants, both volunteers and attendees, described the simulation as impactful and life changing. Be sure to reserve your spot right away!
Please read the full description prior to signing up. The 20 volunteer or "staff" positions do require some training. This means arriving at 1 pm.