Want to increase your understanding of the complex issues facing families struggling with limited financial resources?
Crisis Assistance Ministry offers three experiences that explore ways participants can help create a community where everyone has access to financial stability and an equitable chance for long-term success.
Each of these experiences is designed for adult learners who live or work in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. There is no charge for facilitating these sessions, but donations are greatly appreciated as they help fund Crisis Assistance Ministry’s mission.
Poverty Simulation
- Two-hour immersive experience
- Utilizes Missouri Community Action Network's Community Action Poverty Simulation Curriculum
- Requires 50-80 participants and a 1500+ sq foot meeting space
This facilitated two-hour immersive experience designed to create awareness among participants of life at the bottom rung of the economic ladder. Participants are assigned to “families” who do their best to survive week-to-week over a simulated one-month period.
Virtual Poverty Awareness Experience
- 90 minute virtual experience via teleconference
- Fully online simulation includes interpersonal reflection and debrief
- 10+ participants
Facilitated by a member of the Crisis Assistance Ministry team, this highly interactive session is fully virtual, with each participant logging in from their laptop or other device. Everyone is asked to participate with their camera on and be prepared to engage in honest conversation.
Blended Poverty Awareness Experience
- 2 hour in-person experience
- Utilizes online simulation with full in-person dialogue
- 10+ participants are suggested.
- Requires wi-fi access, laptops, physical meeting space
This facilitated option combines elements of the virtual experience with the power of in-person proximity at your location. Participants learn about the realities of life for families struggling with limited financial resources.
Participants often tell us they will never forget the overwhelming stress and hopelessness they felt as they walked in the shoes of someone facing poverty.
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