“The event seeks to raise at least $10,000 for Covenant House, an organization providing housing and support to young people experiencing homelessness in Chicago, Grand Rapids, and Detroit. [file photo]
The event, part of the General Conference Youth Department’s Global Youth Day (GYD) initiative, seeks to raise at least $10,000 for Covenant House, an organization providing housing and support to young people experiencing homelessness in Chicago, Grand Rapids, and Detroit.
Global Youth Day was established to recapture the reality of Adventist youth as a global movement mobilized for service—contributing to the proclamation of the everlasting gospel and preparing the world for the second coming of Jesus Christ. With the 2025 theme, “ACT: A Community Transformed,” this initiative is a direct response to God's Great Commission, as stated in 2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV): “…not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
“We are asking people to step into the shoes of homeless youth, even if just for one night,” said Earl Baldwin, Youth director of the Lake Region Conference. “Too many young people are forced to sleep outside in harsh conditions every night. This is our chance to raise awareness and provide real support.”
Participants will give up their beds for one night in solidarity with homeless youth, sleeping out at designated locations, including Straford Memorial Church's parking lot (500 W. 119th), local churches, personal yards, or even at home without a bed. Sponsorship levels range from $10 to $100, depending on where participants choose to sleep.
The vision of Global Youth Day extends beyond church walls. “There is a lot more to religious faith than simply going to church and listening to sermons,” said Lake Union Youth and Young Adults Director Ron Whitehead. “The true practice of religion is seen in selfless acts of love, just as Jesus commanded before He ascended to heaven.” This vision is encapsulated in the Global Youth Day motto: “Be the Sermon”, based on Luke 10:25-37, where Jesus instructs, “Go and do likewise.”
The event will continue into Saturday, March 15, as volunteers engage in hands-on service at various locations, including Pacific Garden Mission, Olive Branch Mission, Habitat for Humanity, Chicago Cares and outreach teams providing care packages and prayers for the homeless. Volunteer spots are limited, and projects will be selected based on participation numbers.
Following the service activities, participants will gather at a church (TBD) for a wrap-up session featuring food and games. To document the experience, individuals will be asked to submit photos of their Sleep Out locations, which will be compiled into a Global Youth Day collage and shared with sponsors.
“We don’t want this to be just another event—we want people to take what they learn and turn it into action,” Baldwin said. “If we can inspire even one person to keep advocating for homeless youth, then we’ve succeeded.”
Donations will soon be accepted via a direct link, with all proceeds benefiting Covenant House. Those interested in participating or supporting the cause are encouraged to get involved and help make a difference.
For more information, contact Earl Baldwin, Youth Director of the Lake Region Conference, at ebaldwin@lrcsda.com.
