Project Empathy – Jack’s Story

Competition in the charitable sector, shifting demographics and changing attitudes impacting giving are quickly disrupting philanthropy in fundamental ways. To meet this challenge, United Way and J5, a Canadian design studio, created The Social Impact Lab to experiment with emerging technologies using human-centred design and rapid prototyping to address significant social problems in our community.

Project Empathy is a planned series of VR experiences built in Unity to immerse donors in the lives of our most vulnerable citizens. Our first production is Jack’s Story, about a 10-year-old boy who lives in poverty with his family. By immersing the audience in Jack’s life and imagination, we explore challenges including unemployment, social isolation, mental health issues, and lack of basic needs. Also, the project consists of an in-person curated discussion about the realities of those living in poverty to enhance the digital experience and help the audience make the connection to actions we all can do to help.

The entire project designed, developed and delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. The VR experience is being provided to potential donors under strict COVID-19 protocols. For those at Unity who work with a mostly industrial clients, it was rewarding to be creative and emotive on this project.