It is Christ’s love and compassion that compel us to bring the Kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven to the poor, widows, orphans, homeless, downtrodden, hungry, naked, lost, sick, lonely, forsaken, needy and broken. In doing this, we ourselves are healed.
In 1986, Jimmy and Janet Dorrell created the Poverty Simulation for a youth group whose youth pastor wanted to give them practical experience along with scriptural knowledge they could apply to their lives.
Thirty-five years later, the Poverty Simulation weekend continues to challenge adults, families and students to see the world through a different lens. Scripture and doctrine become real and alive for both students and leaders who participate in the program.
2024-2025 Dates
- March 21-23, 2025
- April 25-27, 2025
- May 30- June 1, 2025
- Other dates will be added for 2025, so please check back here for updates!
- If you have a group of 20-30 or more people, please email [email protected] if you don’t see dates that work for your group, and we’ll be glad to check on options.
The program runs from 8 p.m. Friday to 3 p.m. Sunday. Please do not be late—plan for traffic!
What You Need to Know Before Arrival
The cost is $95 per person—groups get one free person for every 15 people that pay.
Bring passionate sponsors. The youth only go as far as the adults go. If leaders question the rules, don’t participate fully or cheat, then your group will do the same. We also ask that you make sure participants know they are coming to a Poverty Simulation weekend — no “mystery trips!”
Leading a group? This letter is for you.
What to Bring:
- Most importantly, bring positive attitudes!
- Pack just like any other weekend trip, including a sleeping bag, pillow, towel and water bottle.
- Anyone under 18 years old needs to bring a completed Parent/Guardian Waiver Form that is signed by parent/guardian.
- Adults need to bring a completed Regular Waiver Form, or sign one on site.
Click here to read our Frequently Asked Questions.
Our Address: 628 N. 15th Waco, Texas 76707.
Register Now for This Impactful Experience
Individuals (including Baylor Students)—complete online registration and payment through Brushfire.
Groups of 10 or more—Group Leaders can complete the Poverty Simulation Inquiry Form.
Mission Waco Mission World staff members, interns, work-study students or ministry guidance students, please complete the Poverty Simulation Inquiry Form as well. Our staff members will follow up with you to confirm the dates and the registration info.
