Sleep Out is an immersive experience that offers opportunities to learn from experts on the front lines of ending youth homelessness, connect with your colleagues or community, and hear directly from people who have overcome homelessness. The tone ranges from moments of celebration and inspiration to solidarity and reflection. 

Sleep Out asks you to have an open heart, an open mind, and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone. In return, it promises a life-changing experience.

To join this event in person, Sleepers must be at least 18 years old and work towards an optional $5,000 fundraising goal (with support from fundraising coaches!).

To join this event virtually, Sleepers of all ages choose their own fundraising goal and identify their own Sleep Out location (somewhere safe and legal!).

If you want to Sleep Out but cannot attend this event for any reason, consider signing up as a virtual participant and customizing the experience to work for you. This is an excellent option if you would like to participate from home or with children. 

Sleep Out is a unique experience that encourages awareness, empathy, and understanding for the immeasurable odds that youth experiencing homelessness face. But while awareness of a problem is important, it isn't a solution. 

Sleep Out raises critical funds that allow Covenant House to offer 24/7 safety, shelter, and support to young people overcoming homelessness. By fundraising, Sleepers become part of the solution for youth facing homelessness. 

We ask each Sleeper to work towards a goal of $5,000. If you start or join a team, your shared goal will be equivalent to your combined individual goals (e.g. 3 people on a team x $5,000 = $15,000 goal), but you can use your team fundraising page to work collectively towards reaching it. 

If you're nervous about fundraising, reach out! Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us to speak with a fundraising coach or visit our Fundraising Center for a step-by-step guide, sample messages, and shareable content. Fundraising can be daunting — it's part of the commitment you make to step outside your comfort zone when you decide to Sleep Out — but you are never in it alone. 

If you're looking for a Sleep Out with a smaller fundraising goal, consider signing up as a virtual participant which allows you to set a goal that feels right for you. 

Directly to Covenant House Greater Washington, where it is put to work caring for youth overcoming homelessness. Funds raised by Sleepers are put to use right away to help keep the lights on and the doors open for the young people who come to our shelter each year. Sleepers also help fund vital services like medical care, legal assistance, education opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic services that young people need to build stable, sustainable futures.