Last Thursday I had the honor of sleeping outside in solidarity with homeless youth in Vermont as part of the Spectrum Sleep Out. I’ll admit that when I agreed to spend a March night out in the cold, I took a leap of faith. The morning after, I found myself rewarded with a headache, a sore back and a new, profound sense of gratitude for having a place to go home to and a warm bed to sleep in at night.
It was my first time at the Sleep Out, but I am proud to say that it won’t be my last! Spectrum Youth and Family Services is an inspirational community organization that provides emergency shelter and transitional housing for homeless and at-risk youth. PC Construction’s 20-person team joined over 100 business and community leaders at the event in Burlington to support Spectrum and those they serve.
I was floored by our fundraising success – this year the event raised over $250,000 and as the top fundraiser, PC Construction’s team brought in over $40,000 of that total. Over 98% of every dollar raised will go straight to helping teens and young adults turn their lives around.
When I arrived at the Sleep Out, I could see the enthusiasm and commitment on the smiling faces of everyone involved, and I knew I was doing the right thing. Before we turned in for the night, we listened to the inspirational story of a young Spectrum client and that one story reminded me to reflect on and appreciate the support I receive every day from friends and family.
I am deeply grateful to have participated in this event. Thank you to everyone else who donated to and/or participated in the Spectrum Sleep Out. Together, we have made a difference in the lives of the youth and young adults across Vermont.