On November 15, Covenant House Illinois (CHIL) hosted its second annual Sleep Out at St. James Cathedral. Members of the community, celebrities, business leaders, and young professionals came together to raise funds and awareness for Chicago’s homeless, trafficked, and at-risk youth by sleeping outside. “Sleepers” set personal fund-raising goals ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 that were met with the help of friends, family, and colleagues. Additionally, the sleepers shared a meal and participated in activities with CHIL staff, youth, and volunteers.
While this is Paveglio’s first Chicago Sleep Out, she’s been with Covenant House for 25 years and has attended Sleep Outs in Georgia and New York. “Any time our young person gets up there and shares their story, gives us their talent, shows who they are, they’re always spot-on brilliant,” she said. “And that’s every Covenant House event I’ve ever been to. When the youth steps up there and shares their life, it’s just a magical moment.”
The increase in Cisco’s contribution represents the major way that this year’s Sleep Out differs from previous years: “It’s bigger,” said Nichole Lamorgese, a case manager and the longest-serving Covenant House Illinois staff member. “[Last year’s Sleep Out] was more, like, in the whispers. It wasn’t as well known. This feels like there’s more of a community around it.”
“[Covenant House is] all good energy,” said Janesta. “A ‘safe space,’ as they would call it.” v
