In Their Shoes

About In Their Shoes

As a family-friendly event and critical fundraiser for local emergency service and food providers, In Their Shoes aims to educate the community about homelessness in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties by offering an opportunity to learn about the daily challenges that our unhoused neighbors encounter.

This event is hosted by CVOEO’s Samaritan House, Franklin and Grand Isle Community Action, and Voices Against Violence/Laurie’s House, in partnership with another local organization serving the community, to be selected in advance of the year's event.

How to Participate & Fundraise

Each year, individuals, organizations, and/or groups come together and are provided with guided walking tours around St. Albans by CVOEO staff members who share information about what it means to experience homelessness in our community.

Central to In Their Shoes are our fundraising efforts. All funds raised through In Their Shoes go directly to assisting individuals and families experiencing homelessness in their transition into safe, affordable, and permanent housing.

Together, we know that we can raise critical funds to support our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

We encourage participation in the following ways:

Participate as an individual: All are encouraged to register via our online fundraising campaign, and to set a fundraising goal of at least $100. Once you set your fundraising goal, share with friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors. Offline donations can also be added to your fundraising goal - donors can mail cash or checks to CVOEO, Attn: In Their Shoes, P.O. Box 1265, Burlington, VT 05402.

Participate as a team captain: This event is especially meaningful when joined by friends and family! One person sets up your fundraiser, names it with your team name, and shares an invitation link (which can easily be found in the confirmation email) with all who can join them for the fundraising efforts and family-friendly event. You can also select "Join a team" from the "Start Your Fundraiser" link below link if someone you know has already started your team. Wear your matching shirts, bring your signs -- we'll be there to take photos!

Participate as an organization/small business: Set a goal as an organization, and show your community that you care! One person sets up your fundraiser, names it as your organization or small business, and shares a personal link (which can easily be found in the confirmation email) to all colleagues inviting them to join in. You can also select "Join a team" from the "Start Your Fundraiser" link below if someone you know has already started your team. Remember to wear your swag and represent your team spirit on the day. We always encourage healthy competition among colleagues when it's for a great cause.

Make a one-time gift: If you'd like to donate without starting your own fundraiser, you may make a one-time gift.

Help us meet our fundraising goal!

No additional event registration is necessary to join the in-person event. Fundraising is not required, though it is strongly encouraged!

This fundraising event includes physical activity (walking) and participation is at your own risk; CVOEO is not liable for any injuries sustained.

Want to extend your impact and show your community you care?

Become an event sponsor! Learn more below.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Presenting Sponsor ($5,000)

Designation as a Presenting Sponsor of In Their Shoes event
Sponsor recognition throughout marketing collateral and communications pertaining to the In Their Shoes event, including but not limited to:
- Event landing page on www.cvoeo.org, invitation, and ticketing platform
- Prominent logo placement onsite at the event
- Recognition on programs and/or special event collateral, to be determined
- Verbal recognition during the event
- Special thank you post specifically for Presenting Sponsors on CVOEO’s social media: Facebook and Instagram
- Recognition in In Their Shoes press release and opportunity to partner with CVOEO around additional media engagement
- Opportunity to distribute promotional items/collateral at the event, to be mutually agreed upon
- Bespoke volunteer opportunities during the event

Lead Sponsor ($2,500)

Designation as a Lead Sponsor of the In Their Shoes event
Sponsor recognition throughout marketing collateral and communications pertaining to the In Their Shoes event, including but not limited to:
- Event landing pages on www.cvoeo.org
- Prominent logo placement on site at the event
- Recognition on programs and/or special event collateral, to be determined
- Verbal recognition during the event
- Mention in thank you post for Sponsors on CVOEO’s social media platforms: Facebook and Instagram
- Recognition in the In Their Shoes press release

Neighborhood Sponsor ($1,000)

Designation as a Neighborhood Sponsor of the In Their Shoes event
Sponsor recognition throughout marketing collateral and communications pertaining to the In Their Shoes event, including but not limited to:
- Event landing pages on www.cvoeo.org
- Logo placement on site at the event
- Recognition on programs and/or special event collateral, to be determined
- Verbal recognition during the event
- Mention in thank you post for Sponsors on CVOEO’s social media platforms: Facebook and Instagram

Friend Sponsor ($500)

Designation as a Friend Sponsor of the In Their Shoes event
Sponsor recognition throughout marketing collateral and communications pertaining to the In Their Shoes event, including:
- Event landing pages on www.cvoeo.org
- Logo placement at the event
- Mention in thank you post for Sponsors on CVOEO’s social media platforms: Facebook and Instagram

DONATE TODAY

Make a one-time gift to In Their Shoes.

Save the date!

When: Saturday, May 24, 2025

Where: Taylor Park, St. Albans

Check-in: Begins at 1:00PM

Event: Begins at 1:30PM

Who participates?

All are encouraged to attend, walk, and/or support our fundraising efforts.

The event is a meaningful experience for school groups, church groups, families, and anyone looking to increase their awareness and heighten their empathy for our neighbors in need.

Why participate?

Homelessness rates in Vermont have increased over 300% in the past 5 years. With the 4^th highest rate of homelessness in the nation, it's clear that we must come together to address this urgent issue and care for those in our community who are unsheltered.