An interactive simulation that fosters empathy, bridges divides, and promotes effective poverty solutions.
April 9-11, 2024
Delta Hotels By Marriott, 11320 Chester Rd , Sharonville, OH, 45246
Facilitator Training
Hosted by Found Village
A catalyst that empowers teens from hard places to reach their full potential
The Cost of Poverty Experience (COPE) is a 2.5 hour simulation that explores the lived experience of poverty firsthand through the eyes of real families. The experiential nature of this training helps organizations and communities more deeply understand the human and systemic impacts of poverty.
For years, many top down or well intentioned approaches to poverty have left out the wisdom and leadership of those closest to the challenges. Created with the input of individuals with personal experience in poverty, COPE sheds light on these challenges and catalyzes meaningful dialogue and action. This experience challenges participants to rethink poverty, respond effectively, and partner with those affected for change. COPE accommodates groups large or small and can be facilitated live or virtually.
See what Catalysts are saying about COPE:
“As a Catalyst organization leader, I participated in the Cost of Poverty Experience (COPE) and I know how powerful COPE can be to shift mindsets around poverty and those that experience it. I’m excited that Catalysts are coming together to learn how to utilize this valuable tool.”
“When I went through COPE the first time I was a foster parent. The experience literally changed my thinking. It opened my mind to the realities that parents who face poverty and the foster system go through. CarePortal has since helped facilitate over 100 COPES through our Care-Sharing Network across the nation. It has helped to shape our culture.”
“Participating in the COPE experience was very valuable for me. At Cincinnati Works, we work with individuals experiencing poverty on a daily basis, however, the COPE exercise still brought to light all of the struggles that our Members go through on any given day just to manage small tasks. For such a time as we are enduring now, it is imperative that our employers have a well-rounded view of their employees in order to create best practices to secure strong talent. I recommend all employers participate in the COPE simulation.”