Fundraiser Turns Into a Life-Long Learning Experience.

Did you know that the average age of a homeless person is 9 years old?

As a lot of you know, I really enjoy volunteering in my spare time. Coming up on Oct. 19 and 20 is Community Human Services Sleep-In for the Homeless. This is a fundraising and awareness raising event in Downtown Pittsburgh.

This year, the event will take place at the Severe Weather Emergency Shelter, Smithfield United Church, 620 Smithfield St., Pittsburgh, PA. 15222. I believe this event truly was my inspiration to work in the non-profit sector.

This fundraising event benefits more than 1,500 local homeless individuals in Allegheny County. The Sleep-in, an overnight and outside event, features inspirational speeches by people who have overcome homelessness, the support of local politicians working on solutions to end homelessness, and a walking tour and educational experiences for those who want to make a difference in the lives of people who are struggling with housing crises.

I have been participating in this event for three years now and can tell you from first-hand experience how amazing it really is. It's really quite an experience being out there sleeping outside, feeling like you're homeless.

It's a real test to what they have to go through every day. I'm not sure what it is— the noise, the big buildings that make you feel small, or how aware and awake you feel when you are out there. Even though I wasn't alone, it really made me still feel vulnerable and more aware of everything that was around me. I guess that's what the homeless have to do to survive and keep their sanity and peace every night.

I write this article for two reasons. One, I am trying to raise the minimum pledge of $35 to participate. If any of you would be willing to donate, please write a comment or shoot me an email at tarasmith2011@hotmail.com.

I plan on setting up a PayPal account to collect the donation, or you can send the donation by check. I sent an email tonight to who runs this event for more information on who to send the check too.

Two, if any of you would like to participate in this event, I am trying to get a group together to go, please let me know if you are interested and would like more information. This fundraiser means the absolute world to me so any help is appreciated. I encourage you all to check it out.

For more information, please check out the following website:

http://www.chscorp.org/sleep-in%20info.htm

Sources: http://www.chscorp.org/sleep-in%20info.htm, http://www.opendoormission.org/about/fast-facts