SIMON'S BIG SLEEP OUT: WHY IT MEANS SO MUCH TO OUR TEAM

As we near the end of August, it’s hard to believe that the summer season is almost over. We’ve had a fantastic first half of the year here at Simon on the Streets when it comes to fundraising, with our Corporate Socials going from strength to strength and the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and charity skydive being a huge success.?

Now, our focus is on our flagship fundraiser: Simon’s Big Sleep Out. On Thursday, October 10th, 2024, our team, along with a number of our corporate and individual supporters, will sleep outside Leeds Civic Hall to raise awareness about the challenges of homelessness and the work we do as an outreach team.???

In this week’s blog, we wanted to discuss what Simon’s Big Sleep Out means to us as a team and why your support matters so much.?

Raising awareness about the work we do

Because we work with those facing homelessness every day, it’s not often that we get the opportunity to take a step back. Out of all our events, Simon’s Big Sleep Out offers the chance for us to talk to others about the difference we’re trying to make and how we’re doing that on a daily basis.?

We know only too well that one night spent sleeping outside could never replicate what someone facing homelessness is going through. However, it does offer the ideal platform to shine a light on just a few of the challenges, even if only for a few hours.?

Appreciating the support we have?

As a charity, we consider ourselves incredibly lucky. We have such a fantastic network of support, both individual and corporate. Events like this really bring that home. As our senior fundraiser, Andy Sharpe said:

‘The one thing I took away from last year was a sense of gratitude towards every individual and business who made the event so successful.’

For example, at last year’s event, over 70 participants braved the terrible weather conditions to raise vital funds and awareness. Many of those who took part support Simon on the Streets in other ways, too, whether that’s by attending our corporate socials or participating in one of our other fundraisers. To say that we’re so very grateful is an understatement.?

Coming together as a team and a community?

Given our work, it’s important to take care of each other and have a safe space to talk about the support we provide to those who need it the most.?

One of the reasons that Simon’s Big Sleep Out is so special is that it enables us to come together as a team in the community here in Leeds and Bradford, where we spend so much of our time. It also means that we get to spend time with our many supporters and have the opportunity to say thank you.?

Raising vital funds?

As a charity, it costs money to keep the cogs turning. The funds raised go towards keeping our outreach team out there in our community and supporting those experiencing homelessness. In 2023, Simon’s Big Sleep Out raised over ￡30,000. This year, we’re determined to beat that number. Can we count on your support?

If you’re considering participating in Simon’s Big Sleep Out 2024, we urge you to sign up now. Whether it’s just you or you choose to come with a group of friends and family, never underestimate the difference you will make. This is the perfect team-building event if you’re part of a business. As Andy says, ‘the event provides a great platform for businesses looking to develop strong bonds within their staff team while helping to raise vital funds.’?

Visit our website to learn more about Simon’s Big Sleep Out and secure your place. We’d love to welcome you on the night.