In Their Shoes
About In Their Shoes
Thanks for an amazing 2024 In Their Shoes! Stay tuned for information about the 2025 event to be announced later this year.
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. 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 1603, 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.
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.
2025 date to be announced later this year
When: TBD
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?
In 2023, 462 people experienced homelessness in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties, and our doors were open to offer support, resources, and hope.
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.