On Thursday, November 7th, our Chairman & CEO Spencer J McCarthy and his team spent a night braving the cold to sleep outdoors and help raise an impressive £10,650 for EveryYouth, in partnership with the Churchill Foundation.
Spencer was joined by over 30 Colleagues from across the Churchill Group, who spent the night in the car park at the company’s head office in Ringwood to raise awareness and essential funds to combat youth homelessness.
The Mayor of Ringwood Cllr. Rae Frederick also turned out to support the event, along with representatives from the Ringwood Community Fridge initiative.
Though not replicating the reality of homelessness, participants stood in recognition of it, inspired by Every Youth’s mission to “put homelessness to bed.” Every penny raised will go directly to supporting EveryYouth’s critical programs, which address the root causes of youth homelessness and provide vital assistance to young people facing hardship.
One of the event’s highlights was a unique, socially aware version of the classic game Giant Snakes and Ladders, generously sponsored by clean energy supplier Rendesco. This custom game vividly illustrated the unpredictable and often challenging journey many young people face when confronting homelessness. Players navigated a life-size board, facing the “snakes” of housing instability, social stigma and other obstacles that can send youth backward on their path. It was a powerful reminder of the challenges homeless youth experience and how essential our support is.
The night also featured a “Build Your Bed” challenge, with participants creating their own makeshift beds out of cardboard. The competition brought out people’s creativity, with Colleagues constructing the sturdiest and most comfortable setups possible. Special thanks to Churchill Living’s Chairman for making a generous donation toward the winning bed design!
Spencer J McCarthy said: “The Churchill Foundation Sleep Out was a resounding success, not only in terms of the money raised, but in the camaraderie and shared purpose it fostered among the team. Together, we took a small step toward ending youth homelessness, recognising the critical need for awareness, compassion, and support. Thank you to every Colleague, Business Partner, friend and family member who generously supported this excellent cause, helping EveryYouth continue its mission to provide hope and opportunity for young people.”