Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
In 2006, 36 ½ million Americans lived in poverty, 12.3% of the US population. People in poverty face problems many middle class Americans only see on television. Lack of resources and knowledge can cause many Iowans in poverty to become frustrated, be seen in a negative light, and their actions misunderstood by the people trying to help them achieve a better life.

Response:
ISU Families Extension in Northwest Iowa collaborated with Morningside College and AmeriCorps Staff to bring the plight of persons in poverty to the forefront of college students. The Rowell Poverty Simulation provided its attendees the opportunity to walk a mile in the day of a person in poverty and experience the frustrations, anger and hurt someone in poverty often feels. At the same time, low income families were provided the opportunity to role play positions of authority that they often have to deal with each day.

Impact:
92 individuals participated as members of families in poverty and over 14 others staffed the simulation’s tables or observed the day’s events. Evaluations showed all participants felt they understood more about the:

• financial pressures faced by low-income families,
• difficult choices people with low resources need to make,
• difficulties in improving one’s situation and becoming self-sufficient,
• emotional stresses and frustrations caused by having limited resources, and
• positive and negative impacts of “helpers” on people with limited resources.

 
Staff reported this was” the biggest turnout ever and the debriefing was one of the best, as well, due to the group of students that really seemed to make it click”.

Additional ISUE Extension Staff:
Renee Sweers, 712-276-2157, rsweers@iastate.edu

Additional Team Members or Community Partners:
Morningside College; AmeriCorps Employees

Contact:
Jan Burk
Clay County Extension
110 W 4th Street
Spencer, IA 51301
712-262-2264
janburk@iastate.edu