The Human Development and Family Studies Poverty Simulation is a workshop based after the Missouri Community Action Network model that allows participants to experience one month as a family living in poverty, or as a service provider struggling with too few resources to assist these families.
The poverty simulation is a profoundly moving experience that exposes its participants to the harsh realities of poverty. Some examples of groups who have used the poverty simulation include:
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Public Schools
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Social Service Providers
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College Students and Faculty
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Community Organizations
Generally, simulations are offered to students and professionals who work in the human services or education fields. The simulation provides an opportunity to learn about some of the challenges families face when they lack adequate resources to meet their daily needs. The Poverty Simulation is also provided to businesses, school districts and local governments as a part of our commitment to raise awareness and serve those living in poverty throughout Michigan.
Watch the Video to Learn More
About the Poverty Simulation

Interested in Hosting a Poverty Simulation?
If you are interested in hosting a poverty simulation please contact Katie Reck, Faculty Leader/Poverty Simulation Coordinator, at 989-774-2760 or povertysim@cmich.edu.
Register for the Poverty Simulation
Please select one of the following to register for the poverty simluation.
Participants for the poverty simulation will be assigned to be a member of a family during the event. Please sign up as a participant if you are attending the event for any class other than the three HDF classes listed in the next paragraph. ANY CMU STUDENT may attend the poverty simulation (especially, HDF 100, HDF 110, HDF 317, HSC 317).
Facilitators for the poverty simulation will be assigned as agency workers during the event. These roles are typically reserved for students enrolled in HDF 319 and HDF 411.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Katie Reck, Faculty Leader/Poverty Simulation Coordinator
989-774-2760 or povertysim@cmich.edu