What is the Empathy Project?
The Empathy Project is an experiential learning exercise, designed and led by people with lived experience of homelessness and their supporters.
Our goal is to amplify the voices of our community members, and make social policy education accessible and digestible.
Participants are assigned a fictional but realistic case study representing a pathway through the housing and homelessness system. Following in the footsteps of their persona, participants navigate a labyrinth of intakes, referrals, and dead ends in an effort to meet their goals.
Following the simulation, we guide participants through a facilitated discussion designed to help them connect these experiences to action.
Quotes:
“I didn’t realize how difficult it is to access services—the wait times, running around to different places, waiting in lines. It was eye-opening.”
“It was a very impactful experience that challenged me emotionally. It helped me understand the difficulties in navigating the system and the barriers families face.”
“The simulation was very powerful and eye-opening. Thanks for helping us have a glimpse into the barriers and difficulties that many face daily.”
“This has been the most effective way to explain the situations individuals experiencing homelessness face in our City that I have seen or experienced.”
Booking:
How do I book an Empathy Project for my school, organization, or community group? Reach out to us at [email protected] for your information packet.
Volunteering:
We need individuals to fill the role of social sector workers. You may be a worker at an emergency shelter, or Service Ontario, or be on an outreach shift at the park. No prior experience is necessary. Participation in training is mandatory prior to volunteering. Contact [email protected] for more information.