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On Friday night into Saturday
morning, locals gathered at Memorial Park in Lincoln to camp out in
support of homeless veterans. This was the first campout for the
Central Illinois Veterans Commission (CIVC). Sam Downs was inspired
to organize this event after participating in similar events in
Springfield and wanted to raise funds for CIVC. Each camper was
provided with a cardboard box for shelter, and campers would donate
or raise funds for CIVC.
To begin the evening, Dan Benedict
spoke on the reality that many veterans are either homeless or at
risk of becoming homeless. He encouraged the group to remember those
who served our country, check in on local veterans, and support
groups like CIVC. Organizer Sam Downs then thanked everyone for
their participation and support. He hopes the event will continue to
grow but believes it was still a success.
The event had several sponsors:
Gold Sponsor: Logan County Democrats Central Committee, Silver
Sponsors: Ernest Magana, Logan Co. Pride, Saucier Soups & Sauces
LLC, Bronze Sponsors: Marianne Hroma, Lisa Cotton, Andrew Downs,
Walt and Julie Landers, Peggy Bateman, C.O.R.A.L, John and Mary
Strader, Clarissa Kastner, Cindy Lowe, Jennifer Keith, Robert Weis,
Larry Cochran and Barry and Julie King.
It was a pleasant evening as a few
campers set up their boxes. The boxes were provided for shelter for
the evening. Campers were encouraged to decorate the boxes. One was
decorated in shimmering red, white, and blue, and the other was
decorated with U.S. Army emblems and the flag. The award for “Best
Military Design” went to Julie and Barry King for their Army décor.
The other awards for most donations collected are still being
calculated.
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Later in the evening, there was a
campfire for campers to gather around. Refreshments for the campers
were provided throughout the night. Some campers hung out in their
boxes, while others enjoyed conversations around the campfire. Even
children were enjoying the activities, as Luna and Vera were spent
the evening under the stars with their pal, Shorty, who was dressed
in an army-themed costume.
At the end of the event, CIVC board president Kasey Cook provided
the following statement:
“Campers spent the evening swapping stories around the campfire,
enjoying hot dogs and s’mores, and connecting over a shared
commitment to making a difference. It was a relaxed, meaningful
night to reflect on the challenges many homeless individuals face on
a nightly basis.
“Proceeds from the event will go directly toward CIVC’s mission of
helping homeless veterans secure safe, stable housing. There’s
excitement about making the Logan County Campout an annual
tradition, with hopes of growing participation and impact in the
years ahead.
“Special thanks are extended to Sam Downs for his leadership and
vision in organizing the campout, as well as to CIVC Director Julie
King for her dedication and support in making the event possible.
Also, this event would not have been possible without the supportive
campers who donated their time and efforts for a good cause.”
CIVC assists veterans in obtaining permanent housing through the
Tiny Homes for Veterans program. CIVC provides a support system for
veterans to receive dental care, counseling, workplace training, and
other housing services. For more information on
CIVC, click the link to visit
their website.
“Logan County Campout: Homeless for a Night” photo slideshow
[Joli Boerma]
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