Across Itasca County and surrounding communities, countless families work hard yet still struggle to afford life’s basics. As part of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon series, United Way of 1000 Lakes and its partners will shine a spotlight on this reality at Impossible Choices: An ALICE Simulation—an interactive experience designed to deepen understanding of poverty and inspire local change.

Community members are invited to take part in the October 20th luncheon at Timberlake Restaurant, 144 SE 17^th Street in Grand Rapids. The buffet opens at 11:45 a.m., followed by the program at noon. Tickets are $15 for Chamber members and $20 for nonmembers.

The simulation encourages participants to build awareness, increase understanding, and transform perspectives on the challenges faced by the 40% of households in our region that fall below the ALICE threshold. About 13% of households live in poverty (compared to the statewide average of 9%), while nearly 27% qualify as ALICE (compared to 25% statewide). ALICE—short for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—refers to households that live above the federal poverty line yet cannot consistently afford essentials such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare.

“The simulation allows participants to walk in the shoes of ALICE families and see firsthand the difficult trade-offs they face each day,” said Kim Brink Smith, executive director of United Way of 1000 Lakes. “It opens eyes to the reality that financial instability is not about individual shortcomings—it’s about systemic barriers that we as a community can work together to change.”

During the exercise, participants will assume the roles of families navigating one month of life on a limited income. Working together, they must make difficult decisions about employment, bills, food, healthcare, and childcare. Volunteers will help bring the simulation to life by engaging participants in discussion and sharing examples of local efforts that support ALICE households. Throughout the simulation, participants will pause to reflect on each decision and engage in table discussions that connect the experience to real challenges facing ALICE households locally.

The poverty simulation is part of a broader campaign to raise awareness and funds for local programs and initiatives. From October through November 20, proceeds from Dining United for ALICE promotions and direct donations will fuel innovative solutions to improve the lives of working families. One such initiative is Wheels to Work (W2W), which helps individuals and families in Itasca County overcome transportation barriers while building financial literacy and resilience through one-on-one coaching.

Attendees are encouraged to invite others to join the conversation and help raise awareness. To reserve your seat, email jennifer@grandmn.com. To learn more about ALICE in our region, visit uwlakes.org/alice or contact kimberly@uwlakes.org.