I've been priviliged enough to work for Phoenix CDS for over 7 years in varying capacities. Starting on the Homeless Street Outreach team, I got to work day in and day out with folks where they were - in an encampment, under the bridge, in an abandoned building, their vehicle, an emergency shelter, etc. I loved this time in my career - I learned so much about empathy and compassion, meeting people where they're at, respecting their right to free will and choice, and to keep coming back because tomorrow might be the day someone was ready to accept help. Over the years, I have met hundreds of individuals experiencing the hardest struggle of their lives AND I have gotten to share in hundreds of individuals experiencing the joy of getting a key to their own apartment. There is no work more rewarding than sharing in someone's journey and watching them succeed. THIS is why I show up every day and continue the fight. I hope you'll consider joining me in the fight, whether it is by sleeping in a box or your vehicle or donating money to help us continue the work we do. No effort is too small when it comes to changing lives!

On Friday, February 16th, I will be spending the night outside at the Peoria RiverPlex or at the Miller Center in Pekin, Illinois, in my vehicle. I will experience a bit of what it's like to be outside, overnight, in the Central Illinois cold - something that our individuals and families experiencing homelessness face every night of the year!  The money I raise will help Phoenix Community Development Services to provide the permanent supportive housing and homeless outreach services that are necessary end homelessness in our community. Please support my efforts with your contribution today!