Emergency Call: Walk a Night in Their Shoes
Youth homelessness is a growing crisis, and right now, HUD has not released critical funding that programs like Our Ark rely on to support vulnerable young people. Without these funds, essential services, life skills programs, and emergency support are at risk, leaving youth with even fewer resources and safety nets.
Why This Event Matters Now:
Our Ark’s “Walk a Night in Their Shoes” campaign is more urgent than ever. With federal funding delayed, raising awareness, mobilizing the community, and generating immediate support is the only way to ensure youth still have access to critical services and safe spaces. By participating, volunteers, host families, and donors help fill the gap, directly supporting programs that keep young people safe and on the path to independence.
“Feel Their Struggle. Fuel Their Hope.”
“Step Into Their Shoes. Change Their Tomorrow.”
“Take a Step. Make a Difference.”
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What: “Walk a Night in Their Shoes” is an awareness campaign that immerses participants in the challenges faced by youth experiencing homelessness.
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Why: The campaign exists to educate the community, build empathy, and inspire action to support vulnerable youth.
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When: January 2025- 40days/40nights
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Where: The campaign takes place in safe, organized locations across the community, including schools, community centers, and outdoor awareness walks.
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Who: Our Ark Executive Director. Students, volunteers, community members, faith-based groups, and local organizations are welcome to participate in the campaign.
Purpose
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Build empathy and understanding for youth experiencing homelessness
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Educate the community about the realities and risks of housing instability
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Inspire action through volunteering, donations, advocacy, and supportive partnerships
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Keep housing doors open
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Keep holistic programs open: life skills, street outreach, and case management
How You Can Create Awareness
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Get involved, bring your family and friends
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Share your experience and knowledge with others
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Volunteer your time 2 hours a week
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Sponsor a youth/young adult
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Become a Team Member, Mentor or Volunteer
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Gift supplies, food, funds, or clothes
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Fundraise to help youth experiencing homelessness
Jungle Walk
What does it mean to walk in the shoes of a street kid who has nowhere to go or turn to? Each walk of every day is sharing what is going through in the eyes of that young person. Stories and experience will get shared with permission of the youth as we make these travels.
