Join a Sleep Out
Join a Sleep Out
There are three easy steps to join a Sleep Out. For questions on any step, email sleepout@covenanthouse.org.
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1. Register for an event.
Sleep Outs are hosted at local Covenant Houses across North America. Find an upcoming event near you and complete the registration form to sign up. Sleep Outs have varying age and fundraising requirements, so please double check the event details prior to registering.
If you can’t find an event near you, consider starting your own.
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2. Fundraise and spread awareness.
You create a personal fundraising page upon registration that you can customize with a photo, story, friendly URL, and fundraising goal. This page is what you share with your network so they can donate directly to you.
Each Sleep Out has a required minimum fundraising goal, so please review the event information. Never fundraised before? Don't worry. Our fundraising tools make it easy to get started, and you’ll receive regular coaching emails prompting you along the way. You also have access to a fundraising coach, who can help you navigate a fundraising strategy.
We recommend starting your fundraising at least 4 weeks before your Sleep Out, but we have seen people reach their goal with less time. Check your event leaderboard to see where you stand and compete to earn top fundraising prizes at the event. Your page will remain active for up to 6 weeks after the event so you can share about your experience and continue your campaign.
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3. Sleep Out.
In advance of Sleep Out, you will receive emails from your event coordinator with the schedule, venue, and list of what you need to bring with you (this info will also be available on your event website).
A typical Sleep Out will start around 8pm, with time for registration and a light dinner before the welcome program begins. We always take time to thank our fundraisers, share about our mission, and show the impact of the funds you raised. You may be broken up into smaller groups for deep-dive conversations on different topics related to youth homelessness with your fellow Sleepers, Covenant House experts, and youth or alumni speakers, and some Sleep Outs include a candlelight vigil.
When it’s time to Sleep Out, usually around 11pm, you will head out to the parking lot or other secure area with your sleeping bag (check with your event coordinator if you need to bring your own). You’ll have the opportunity to change your clothes (layers are recommended!) before settling in. Sleep Out is a rain or shine event, though there will always be indoor space available and Covenant House staff onsite should you need them in the night.
In the morning, Sleepers wake up, grab a cup of coffee, and join a morning reflection to talk through the experience, reflect on how it differs from what youth facing homelessness experience, and ask questions before continuing on with your day. You’ll hear from your event coordinator after the Sleep Out with ways to stay involved.