The Impact of a 24-Hour Sleepout

At Grunt Style, we like the stories about the good that happens in our country. The truth about the world is that there is enough negativity without us adding to it. Sometimes we can't avoid it as the breaking news needs to be covered. However, stories like this we are more than happy to cover. There will be a 24-hour sleepout sponsored by Columbia College Chicago’s Student Veteran Association and ChicagoVets on December 15th.

For the fifth year now, participants will gather and spend a full twenty-four hours, braving the elements of a Chicago winter, living as if they were homeless. They do this to support and bring awareness to the homeless veteran population of Chicago. These men, women and their families gather to spend a day in solidarity, experiencing some of the same hardships of the homeless veteran population.

Because the internet is an unforgiving place and certainly someone will take issue with the event. Let us say this. No one can do everything forever, but many can do what they can for a short while. It may not be a perfect solution or even a solution, but maybe, just maybe it helps one person. This holiday season, with so much negativity in the news, can we just appreciate that people are willing to do something kind with their time. Time is, after all, the most precious commodity we have. We salute those of you who choose to brave the windy and icy chill that many homeless veterans endure. During this 24-hour sleepout, we hope that each of you volunteering makes a lasting connection and is able to lift one of your brethren up. Every once in a while we all need a helping hand.At the Sculpture Garden at the corner of S. Wabash and 11th St in Chicago (60605) on the morning of December 15th at 9:30 a.m. people from all over the city will gather to show their love and support. Donations of new or gently used clothing will be collected for the homeless at this location as well. Merry Christmas everyone.