Thank you for choosing to make an impact on your community by planning a Sleep Out. Here are a few things to consider that will help make your Sleep Out a success:
Safety is a priority! Once your group has decided to hold a Sleep Out, make sure the rules and regulations of your organization or school or venue are followed. If it's unsafe for you to sleep outside for any reason - including weather, because you're in a big city, or because you don't have a yard or field - it's perfectly fine to sleep indoors. The idea of the Sleep Out is that you learn what it's like to not be able to go home to your own bed and to understand some of the discomforts that kids experience while homeless.
In the past, we have had groups sleeping in recreational centers, hallways, classrooms, gyms, rooftops, and even basements - if you're struggling to come up with a good option, email us at [email protected] and we'll help you with ideas.
To sign your group up, register and create a team page. Include your organization in your team name so that donors and team members can easily find it. After the team page is set up, encourage your friends, coworkers, students, or club members to register, join the team, and begin fundraising and raising awareness.
Help secure building access after hours, lighting overnight, bathroom access and trash removal. Also consider what items you need on-site: tables, chairs, microphones, speakers, projector, megaphone, etc.
If your event is spanning several hours (which it likely will!), we recommend providing simple, light food for your participants. Alternatively, you can ask folks to pack their own brown bag meals.
Venues and organizers often require signed waivers from each participant. If the event includes participants under the age of 18, parental consent forms may also be needed. Have all waivers and consent forms on record and on hand at the event, including emergency contact information. You can print the waiver from your Participant Center after you register.
A Sleep Out is a long event! Request support from non-participants to volunteer at the event and to help you cover supervision throughout the night.
Get The Word Out