Recently, the Interprofessional Education (IPE) Committee in the College of Education, Health, and Human Services (CEHSS) hosted two interdisciplinary, immersive learning experiences focused on housing insecurity and poverty. The events were spearheaded by committee co-chairs, Dr. Shannon Salley and Dr. Jenn Cuchna.
The first event, Cardboard City, took place on November 22 from 7 p.m. to midnight. This experience simulated the challenges of being unhoused, asking participants to construct impromptu shelters for the night. Approximately six participants and several volunteers took part, including an unexpected “eviction” coordinated with campus police to reinforce the realities of instability.
The second event, a Poverty Simulation, was held on January 22 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and engaged roughly 100 students and more than 20 volunteers. During the simulation, students worked in family units to meet basic needs over the course of a simulated month, with each week condensed into 15 minutes. Participants navigated community resources and experienced firsthand how housing, financial, and social constraints shape daily decision-making for individuals living in poverty.