Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, The Poshard Foundation, and University of Illinois Extension are hosting a comprehensive, full-day event aimed at addressing the pervasive issue of poverty in Southern Illinois.
The event will offer professionals across various fields an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of poverty, its causes, and effective strategies for intervention.
The morning session will feature Charley Cass, Superintendent of Bethel Grade School District #82, author of Leaving Poverty On Purpose and For Good, and host of the Leaving Poverty Podcast.
His presentation, Captain of the Ship: How Mentorship, Fellowship, and Ownership Can Pull People Out of Poverty, will explore how community support and personal empowerment can help individuals break free from the cycle of poverty.
In the afternoon, the University of Illinois Extension will lead two Poverty Simulations. These simulations give participants a unique, hands-on experience of what it feels like to live a month in poverty.
Through role-playing scenarios, attendees will navigate challenges such as securing food, housing, and managing family needs, while interacting with community resources.
This exercise is designed to highlight the real-world obstacles that people living in poverty face on a daily basis.
CEUs are available for LCSWs, LSWs, LCPCs, LPCs, and educators. Registration opens at 8:30 AM, with the workshop running from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
A light breakfast will be provided, though participants must arrange their own lunch during the midday break.
Volunteers are also encouraged to sign up to help with the simulation.
