Student Leadership Johns Creek Class Members Learn About Poverty

Student Leadership Johns Creek (SLJC) students spent their MLK holiday from school at Emory Johns Creek Hospital working with North Fulton Community Charities learning through a “realistic” Poverty Simulation.

During the simulation, the students were tasked to get their “family” through a month of challenges faced in poverty.

Having to deal with losses of jobs and income and still provide transportation to and from work and various social and community services while paying their bills and managing their family.

This simulation was eye opening for these high school teens. According to one student’s assessment of the simulation “a lot of the reasons that people are in poverty are reasons that are out of their control.” Another student reflected that “there is not a lot of time to think about luxuries or small things when you have to pay bills and feed your family.”

Additionally, it made the students aware of our community needs; families who are homeless and who are trying to provide for their families. The students were able to reflect on their experiences at the end of the session.

The simulation was facilitated by Sharla Calloway, Director of Volunteer Services with North Fulton Community Charities.

According to Ms. Calloway, “the Poverty Simulation is a “role play” exploration of the challenges that families in poverty face every day. The participants navigate many frustrations such as loss of income, applying for assistance, being a single parent, burglary, lack of transportation, etc. By promoting understanding, compassion and change, students get a chance to engage and realize that they have more in common with those living in poverty than they realized. The outcome is empathy and awareness-two qualities which lead to a better world for us all. Student Leadership Johns Creek completed the event with enthusiasm and great maturity, and NFCC is happy to have teamed with this amazing group of teens.”

In addition to the Poverty Simulation, the SLJC students packed toiletry bags for needy families that visit the North Fulton Community Charities. Shampoo, conditioner, lotion and other essential day-to-day products are just one of the needs at NFCC. Many students reflected on the day and the power of “giving back and the responsibilities of adulthood.” It clearly provided the students with a day to understand the needs of others and an oppportunity to support people in their community.

Applications are currently available for next year's class. More information about Student Leadership Johns Creek can be found at the following website: www.leadershipjohnscreek.com .