Residents are hosting a sleep-out and read-a-thon in the Amani neighborhood this weekend at 2444 N. 21st St.
“This is more than an event—it’s a movement,” said Christal West, who organized the event with her husband, Jarvis, and other community partners. “Together, we are uplifting literacy, addressing homelessness and showing what’s possible when the community comes together in love and action.”
In 2023, Christal and Jarvis West spent a week sleeping outside to shed light on youth homelessness and support local community groups.
From Friday, Sept. 19 to Sunday, Sept. 21, the Wests and other partners, including local elected officials, will host a number of activities including a read-a-thon.
Attendees are encouraged to camp out as well.
Full list of activities
The weekend is packed with family friendly activities, including:
- Tent tours – Explore six large-scale 10’ x 30’ rooms (Sept. 20–21, noon to 7 p.m.)
- Community and youth yoga
- Scary story hour with s’mores
- Outdoor family movie nights
- Open sanctuary room for prayer
- Livestreamed demonstrations (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) on cooking, wellness, domestic violence awareness, survival skills, men’s wellness and homelessness
- Free food boxes with dry goods and snacks provided by Feeding America
- First ever readathon – Volunteers will read in 30–60 minute slots, sharing the love of literacy throughout the sleep-out.
To learn more, volunteer or sign up for a read-a-thon slot, you can contact Christal and Jarvis West at (414) 215-8643 or email mrjarviswest@gmail.com.
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