OREGON – The Illinois Extension will host a poverty simulation on February 28th at the Rock River Center in Oregon, offering a hands-on experience to raise awareness about the struggles of living in poverty. During the event, participants will take on family roles and navigate real-life challenges such as budgeting, working, and securing basic needs over the course of a simulated month.
Mike Delaney, Educator, Community and Economic Development with the University of Illinois Extension said around 100 people will participate in the event.
“It’s not a presentation, it’s not a set of lectures, it’s an actual role-playing simulation,” he said.
The simulation will feature 80 individuals representing community members living in poverty, with another 20 volunteers taking on roles as employees or officials that are part of the community.
Karla Belzer, County Director of the University of Illinois Extension, said that for many in the state, you can be one health scare or job loss away from limited income.
“The whole simulation is just really focused on bringing awareness to that, so that empathy can be developed. And then from that, you know, we can take care of each other better and develop strategies and approaches that can help everyone in our communities,” she said.
The event is free, open to the public, and includes lunch. Local social service agencies will also be on hand to provide information on available resources. To register, visit go.illinois.edu or call 815-632-3611.
There will be two more events this year.
Carroll County Davis Community Center April 25th, 2025 8:30 AM – to 1:30 PM and at the Whiteside County Sterling Township Building September 5th 8:30 AM – to 1:30 PM. Lunch will be served at both events.
