Step into someone else’s story. Experience the realities of poverty — and leave ready to act.​

Rooted in Reality is an immersive poverty simulation created by Helping Children Worldwide to deepen empathy and understanding of the realities faced by impoverished people.

What is Rooted in Reality?

Rooted in Reality is a facilitated, community-driven poverty simulation. Participants assume the roles of families, service providers, and community leaders and navigate a condensed “month in the life” under conditions that mirror real barriers faced by children and their caregivers — limited incomes, unpredictable expenses, restricted access to healthcare and education, and the complicated trade-offs families make every day.
This is not a game. It is a carefully designed learning experience based on real-world patterns and lived experiences. Our aim is to build understanding that leads to smarter policies, more compassionate service, and long-term support for children and families.
​Participants leave with:

• A nuanced understanding of how poverty affects children’s access to education, nutrition, and safety.
  
• Practical ideas to remove barriers and design more effective support systems.
  
• Increased willingness to advocate for policy changes and community investments.
  
• Clear, group-driven action steps to support children in their own communities.
  

Who Should Host a Simulation?

• Young adult groups, faith communities, and civic organizations
  
• Nonprofit and NGO staff and board members
  
• Local government and policy makers
  
• Healthcare and social service providers
  
• Corporate teams interested in community impact
  

How Do I Host a Simulation?

Walk away with more than good intentions. Rooted in Reality turns empathy into effective, informed action for children and families.

Book a session, partner with us, or invite us to your next staff retreat — together we can design solutions that truly meet the needs of children and families all over the world.