“Is that the one where people sleep on cots?” We hear this question a lot in lead up to our annual fundraising event YWCA KEEP A ROOF OVER THEIR HEADS®. The answer in short is, yes. It’s not our most glamorous event, but that’s sort of the point: experiencing one night “homeless” in a YWCA shelter will evoke a deeper awareness and understanding about those who regularly spend nights on a cot at a shelter, or worse places. Not only do registered participants and fundraisers gain a new perception of homelessness in our city, they also have a light meal, make new friends and connections, and enjoy an intimate and interactive evening program. The event is an extremely important component in the YWCA’s fundraising efforts. Funds raised support women and children in Calgary experiencing homelessness, arguably Calgary’s most pressing issue with more than 3,500 people experiencing homelessness as per Calgary Homeless Foundation’s October 2014 Point-In-Time Count Report. Returning participants and compassion-istas Nadine McGrath and Aisha M. Leung were gracious enough to provide some insight into their experience last year and what motivated them to for return for a second year.

What surprised you the most last year?

Nadine: For me the entire experience was a surprise; seeing what people without homes go through, especially women.

Aisha: I think the surprise for me was when we got to the [intake] doors and there was a “No waiting in the parking lot” sign. If you have no place else to go, it’s freezing outside and you just want to get there on time so you can have a place to sleep, it would be frustrating.

What was the most impactful moment for you?

Nadine: I think the most impactful moment was hearing one of the guest speakers, someone who stayed at the YWCA Winter Emergency Response program, speak about her experiences. I know I crave comfort and a safe place; knowing that there are people who don’t have that, like that woman [during a period in her life], is disheartening.

Aisha: What impacted me most was when we wrote little messages [in cards to put in the basic needs packages]. I really liked doing that, because it gives hope to the ladies.

What motivated you to register to participate again this year?

Nadine: I’m participating again because I feel it’s the right thing to do. Everyone deserves a place to feel safe at night, but not everyone has what they deserve.

Aisha: I’m participating again because I have been in a similar situation and was almost homeless. I hope the women [who come to the YWCA] are able to find a home like I did.

What’s your fundraising goal this year and how can people help? 

Nadine: Last year Aisha and I raised about $250. This year we hope to double that amount. People can help out by donating to our team “anventures”  via ywcakeeparoof.com I think the more people in the city are aware of the event and the issue of homelessness, the more enriched they will be.

So far, we have more than 40 participants and ten teams registered and already doing great fundraising; but there is always room for more. You can join Nadine, Aisha and many others on May 7! See you at lights out.