Where and how you sleep is up to you! We understand our supporters have varied levels of comfort. We recommend sleeping in a vehicle as many of the women have who come to us at Bethany House after leaving their abusers. You can participate alone or in groups. Last year, a group of colleagues from the same company spent the night together in a van. It’s open to every one of all ages - families, individuals, faith and school groups, sports teams, the scouts, and businesses!
HOW DOES MY SUPPORT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
100% of the proceeds go towards the Residential Programs, Services, and Operations at Bethany House of Northern Virginia. This means every dollar you raise will help provide a warm, safe, supportive place for women and children to rebuild their lives after abuse. Hundreds of people in Fairfax County and thousands across the country are homeless due to domestic violence. Each dollar you give has a name on it and will help us to save lives. Spending One Night Homeless and raising funds will make a difference!
WHAT IF MARCH 9th IS A REALLY COLD NIGHT?
By participating in this event, there’s a chance you will feel uncomfortable. You may feel unsure about familiar surroundings in the middle of the night or surprised by the temperature in early March. You will most likely be tired the following day, and these are the struggles many women fleeing abuse face every day. We appreciate you giving up your comfort in support of your neighbors in need of safety from domestic violence.
You may also choose not to spend One Night Homeless and simply support the cause by starting a fundraising team. Every way that you support helps Bethany House to save lives!
ANY TIPS TO HELP ME PLAN FOR THE NIGHT?
Make sure to have many layers and blankets. Even sleeping in your car in March can be very cold. Make sure to properly time your eating and drinking to ensure that you have access to a restroom before stores and businesses close. Bring books, charge your phones, and make sure that you park in a safe place. You may want to get permission ahead of time if you plan to park in a more public place. Keep in mind that you are doing this in solidarity with women and children in your community and across the country who are sleeping in their cars because they have no other options. Journal your experience. Go live and post on social media to share your experiences throughout the night and to get more people to donate and support the cause.
CAN I FUNDRAISE INDIVIDUALLY OR WITH A TEAM?
You got this! We provide outreach templates to help with ideas but encourage you to include a short, personal note. It's helpful to share a personal story about why you want to be an advocate for survivors of victims of domestic violence and why you’re choosing to fundraise for Bethany House of Northern Virginia.
Don’t be afraid to ask! Most people are happy to donate to a good cause and support your fundraising campaign. Think about everyone you know: friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues. Thank you for being a champion for Bethany House of Northern Virginia and our community.
Yes! Go to the top, right side of your personal page, team page, and the homepage, there is a box that says "Invite a friend." We encourage you to build a team and experience One Night Homeless together. If you can't be together that's okay, virtual teams are welcome!
The suggested fundraising minimum is $500 but aim high! We make it easy. Our Starter Kit will give you the tools and tips you need to reach your goal.
Yes! We want to show our appreciation to our fundraisers. Participants who register for $25 or who donate at least $25 will receive a t-shirt. The person or team who donates the most will get bragging rights and features on our e-newsletters and social media platforms.
You can drop off or send those donations to our admin office. Please make sure you tell us your name, and we will add that amount to your campaign.
Bethany House of Northern Virginia
attn: One Night Homeless
6862 Elm Street, suite 200
McLean, VA 22101