Sleep Out Offers a Night of Conversation and Connection
Millions of young people experience homelessness each year. The Covenant House Sleep Out, now in its 15th year, brings together a global community to confront this crisis head-on. More than 100 volunteers gave up their beds on March 14 and slept outside on cold concrete. It’s not about pretending to be homeless; we Sleep Out to show our solidarity with those who are. The spring Sleep Out in NYC raised over $300,000 to provide shelter, sanctuary, and support to young people receiving care at Covenant House.
What started as a single Sleep Out in New York City in 2011 has grown into the largest fundraising and awareness program in support of homeless youth in the world, taking place in more than 20 cities annually. Since inception, Covenant House supporters have spent more than 65,000 nights outside and raised over $160 million.
We celebrate the diverse paths that lead individuals and teams to join the Sleep Out movement, revealing the powerful motivations and experiences that drive them to stand up for homeless youth.
Sleep Out for Mom
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 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. 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.
Team member Jack Riker 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.
Sleep Out to Make a Difference
Ashleigh Uzoaru, a Brooklyn-based marketing coordinator with a passion for art and community, embarked on her first Sleep Out with Covenant House. Ashleigh became involved with Covenant House through her company's employee resource group, Noble, which supports Black employees.
Her journey to the Sleep Out was rooted in her personal background and a profound desire to give back to those who need it most. "Behind my closed doors, it was never safe, physically, for me," Ashleigh recalls, reflecting on how those experiences shaped her understanding of safety, stability, and the importance of a secure home. Her environment made it difficult for her to focus on her future, yet it also fueled her determination to succeed and help others along the way.
Ashleigh’s message to others who are considering getting involved with Covenant House is clear and heartfelt. "This work is life-changing, not just for the youth we support, but for us as well. The joy, the fulfillment, the purpose you feel — it’s indescribable. If you’re looking for a way to make a real difference, to connect with others on a deeper level, and to do something that truly matters, I can’t think of a better place to start than with Covenant House."
Sleep Out to Give Back
Dan Freed is the CEO and founder of Thesis, a company that makes personalized nootropics (supplement blends) for cognitive health and mental clarity. Today, Dan has voluntarily given up his bed five times as a Sleep Out participant, but as a teenager, he had no choice but to sleep outside before he found Covenant House. Thesis is a Covenant House New York corporate partner and thanks to Dan’s leadership, his colleagues are aware of the youth homelessness crisis, and they take action year-round.
“When I was 18, I came to New York looking for a fresh start, but I knew no one, had no job, and didn’t have a place to stay. Covenant House helped me through that difficult time in my life. It was a place where I found refuge and support to help get me on my feet while I sorted out life for a couple of months,” Dan said.
“Since then, I’ve been committed to helping them provide essential services to youth in need. Thesis partners with Covenant House to give back, including fundraising tens of thousands of dollars, providing hands-on support, and offering employment opportunities,” he shared. “And, for the last five years, I’ve participated in the Sleep Out, where we sleep outside in solidarity with homeless youth and raise awareness about the challenges they face. I’m excited to be joined by many members of the Thesis team this year.”
Join Us
Now is a great time to join the Good Newsers, Ashleigh, Dan and the thousands of volunteers who give up their bed for one night to ensure that youth facing homelessness can sleep safely at Covenant House.
Are you ready? Here are some things you can do today!
Shelter Is Only the Beginning
From crisis to care: Find out what it's like when a young person enters our doors.