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K-State Today

January 29, 2018

Communitywide poverty simulation Feb. 24 at Pottorf Hall in CiCo Park

Submitted by Jenny Yuen

Poverty simulation logo

Poverty is a reality for many individuals at K-State and in the surrounding communities. Riley County Health Department reports that one in four families in Riley County is living in poverty. But unless you've experienced poverty, it's difficult to truly understand its impact.

A coalition of Manhattan organizations with leadership from Kate Behan and Elaine Johannes, faculty members in the School of Family Studies and Human Services in the College of Human Ecology, will host a communitywide poverty simulation from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at Pottorf Hall, 1710 Avery Ave., Manhattan.

Behan and Johannes will facilitate the interactive immersion experience which sensitizes participants to the realities of poverty. 

K-State Research and Extension, Thrive!, Everybody Counts, MAPJ, Health Communities Lab, and Riley County Health Department also will be part of the Feb. 24 poverty simulation.

Registration is free and required by Friday, Feb. 16. Register or find out more online. When directed, indicate whether you want to be a participant or a volunteer. A volunteer will play a provider role during the simulation. Professional continuing education units for social workers and contact hours may be available.

This simulation is appropriate for individuals ages 18 and older. Childcare is not provided during the simulation.

For more information, contact Brandon Irwin at birwin@rileycountyks.gov or call 785-776-4779, ext. 7612.