Virtual COPE 1.7

Virtual COPE is an innovative interactive simulation designed to immerse participants in the experiences of families living in poverty. By engaging in this simulation, individuals navigate a week's worth of challenges faced by low-income households, making difficult decisions and addressing unexpected situations as they strive to improve their circumstances.

Developed by Think Tank, Inc., COPE draws upon the personal narratives of low-income individuals, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the daily struggles faced by many American families. The initiative aims to transform the culture of support for those in poverty, empowering organizations to approach issues with a focus on human dignity and sustainable change.

COPE serves as a valuable resource for diverse organizations seeking to:

• Enhance their comprehension of the complexities surrounding poverty in America.
• Refine strategies for effectively engaging low-income individuals and their families.
• Foster collaborations with the wider community to improve outcomes for those experiencing poverty.

The Virtual COPE experience lasts approximately one hour for both organizations and individuals. Participants leave with a heightened awareness of poverty, interactions with individuals who have firsthand experience of these challenges, and motivation to translate their insights into actionable steps. The online experience includes around 40 minutes of immersive gameplay followed by a 20-minute group debrief led by a live facilitator via Zoom.

For more information or to schedule a Virtual COPE event, please visit thinktank-inc.org/vcope. Registration is required to obtain an event code for participation.