There aren’t many executives who are prepared to trade a warm bed for a night sleeping on a piece of cardboard on a frozen city street – but for this man, it is all about giving back.
“As someone who has worked in the downtown core of Toronto for the past 20 years, I have a deep affection for the city,” says Alan Hollingsworth, vice president and partner of entertainment practice with
HUB International HKMB Limited. “This event provides me with the opportunity to give back to the city in a sense. Hopefully our involvement with this event can help raise awareness and money.”
More than just a participant, Hollingsworth is chairing the Sleep Out: Next Generation event that will take place on Thursday, April 10. With nothing more than a sleeping bag and a piece of cardboard, Hollingsworth and others will call the streets of Toronto their bed for one night.
“We had a senior partner participate in the Executive Sleep Out in November,” says Hollingsworth, “and now three of our team are participating in the ‘Next Gen’ version in April.”
According to recent numbers, 10,000 children and young adults spend some time living on the streets in Toronto each year. For three decades, Covenant House Toronto has provided assistance to some 85,500 homeless children and young adults.
“There are a lot of good people doing excellent work within the city,” says Hollingsworth. “Covenant House is a shining example of really good people providing wonderful assistance and opportunity to those who may have had some challenges in their respective lives. The selfless nature of the staff and volunteers coupled with the care and education programs offered by Covenant House, are truly commendable.”
But why sleep outside to start with? (continued.)
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“We sleep outside so that homeless youth won’t have to,” says Hollingsworth. “I’m hoping you will consider sponsoring me – even if it is just a small amount, it all adds up.”
Hollingsworth’s personal goal of $5,000 is almost halfway there, and donations can be made by visiting his personal Covernant House fund raising
page.
The Covenant House overall goal of $100,000.
You can also learn more about Alan Hollingsworth by going to our emag, who is featured in Favourite Things. If you would like to be featured, you can
contact the Associate Editor Don Horne.
