Why We Sleep Out: Turning Compassion into Action– How the Good Newsers Are Changing Lives at Covenant House

"Why We Sleep Out" is a collection of stories that highlights the diverse paths that have led individuals and teams to join Covenant House's Sleep Out movement, revealing the powerful motivations and experiences that drive them to stand up for homeless youth.

A team of childhood friends who grew up playing sports together now share a deep connection to Covenant House that is rooted in camaraderie, passion for the cause, and personal growth. Their journey began in March 2017 when the group decided to “do something their mothers would be proud of.” This simple act of solidarity marked the birth of the Good Newsers, a dedicated team that has since become a powerful force in supporting Covenant House through the Sleep Out movement.

The First Step

Inspired by a friend, Dan Ryan, son of former Covenant House International CEO, Kevin Ryan, the group first gathered in the parking lot of Covenant House New York on a bitterly cold night. Frank, one of the team’s founding members, recalls how the energy of that first Sleep Out experience consumed them all immediately. What started as a one-time event quickly grew into an annual tradition, eagerly anticipated each year.

For Jack Riker, the first Sleep Out was an eye-opening experience. Initially, he approached it with some reluctance, feeling it might be more of a burden than a benefit. However, upon entering the New York Times building where the program portion of the event was held, the energy and passion in the room transformed his perspective. The stories shared by Covenant House youth and staff left a lasting impact on him, solidifying his commitment to the cause– ending youth homelessness as we know it.

A Growing Commitment

As the Good Newsers continued their involvement with Sleep Out, their group grew larger, and their dedication to the Cov deepened. Frank expanded his participation by running both the NYC Half Marathon and the full New York City Marathon to raise funds for Covenant House. He also rallied his colleagues at Neuberger Berman, helping to turn the company into a corporate sponsor and leading teams to Covenant House shelters to refurbish spaces, play yard games, and provide career guidance to our young residents.

Through their collective efforts, the Good Newsers have raised an astonishing $375,000 for Covenant House, with a goal to reach half a million dollars by their tenth year. Jack highlights the tangible impact of their fundraising efforts, noting that the money raised directly benefits the young people at Covenant House. “The impact is evident both during the events and in everyday life whenever I get to meet former Covenant House youth who have turned their lives around,” he said.

Covenant House Newsers Sleep Out Volunteers

TJ, another member of the Good Newsers, joined the team around the same time as Frank. Like Jack, TJ was initially drawn to the cause by a friend's invitation, but quickly became hooked after his first Sleep Out experience. The mission of Covenant House resonated deeply with him, motivating him to ramp up his involvement by volunteering in resume workshops and participating in other initiatives to support our young people.

Despite the challenges of fundraising, the Good Newsers have never lost sight of their goal. Every year, they aim to be the top fundraising team, driven by a sense of friendly competition that comes to life through good-natured teasing in their group chats, and a desire to make a difference. TJ himself has raised between $2,000 and $3,000 annually, often using creative approaches like Instagram storyboards to engage his loved ones and give shout-outs to donors.

For Jack, the challenges of the Sleep Out, particularly the discomfort of sleeping on concrete, have become part of what strengthens the bond among his group of friends and their connection to the mission. Sleep Out has become more than just a charitable activity; it's a meaningful way to reconnect with friends around shared values, moving beyond traditional social reunions to something that deeply resonates with them all.

The Good News Is...

As the Good Newsers look forward to their next Sleep Out and the ongoing work they’ll do for Covenant House, their message is clear: everyone can make a difference. "With social media, news, and every distraction, personally and professionally, it's important for everyone to dedicate some time—one day or many—for the benefit of others," says TJ. "Covenant House is exactly one of those organizations where you know your efforts and funds are going to a great cause."

The Good Newsers have seen firsthand the impact that Covenant House has on young people. From hearing success stories to witnessing the tangible changes in the lives of those they’ve supported, they know that their efforts are making a real difference. And they encourage others to join them—whether it’s through participating in a Sleep Out, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

In the end, what began as a simple desire to make their mothers proud has turned into a lifelong commitment to helping those in need. The Good Newsers have become an inspiration to all who are fortunate enough to hear their story, reminding us that no act of kindness is too small.

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