Finding Connection and Purpose Through Sleep Out
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One of the first emails I received in my Cisco inbox following the Splunk acquisition was for the Covenant House 2024 Sleep Out. As a Splunk remote worker, I had never met any of my colleagues in person, and I saw this event as a chance to make connections and become part of the Cisco community.
I accepted the invite and attended the Sleep Out Team Boston kick-off event. I was welcomed and learned more about Covenant House and its mission. Covenant House provides crucial support to youth experiencing homelessness, many of whom have aged out of the foster care system. This hit close to home, as it is connected to my journey to parenthood.
My wife and I had longed to become parents, but our dreams were shattered in 2008 when we lost twins who came prematurely. The loss left us devastated, but in 2013, when we learned about adoption through the foster care system, we once again had hope.
We adopted our daughter in 2015 when she was just 18 months old, ensuring she would never have to worry about not having a permanent home.
She has always been showered with love. Yet recently, she asked me, “Did my birth family want me, did they love me?” I explained that her birth family loved her deeply and wanted to give her the best life possible, even if it meant finding another family who could provide for her needs.
Reflecting on her question, I realized how easily she could have been one of those children aging out of the system, ending up alone with nowhere to go.
This realization compelled me to participate in the Sleep Out. I also thought it was ironic that I was originally interested in the Sleep Out to find connection, when this is exactly what Covenant House provides to young people experiencing homelessness.
We all deserve to feel loved, included, and part of a community — whether that takes the form of a family, a caring organization, or a company.
The Boston Sleep Out was a profound experience, offering me a glimpse into the harsh realities people experiencing homelessness face.
That night, temperatures dropped below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and persistent rain made it difficult to stay dry. I had a three-season sleeping bag and a Mylar emergency blanket — often used for retaining body heat — but I struggled to stay warm and dry. My 6-foot-2-inch body was restless, and the Mylar sheet was too short.
I was getting soaked and found myself thinking of the young people who endure these conditions every night.
When I finally accepted that sleep was impossible, I sought a quiet spot to pray — something that always brings me peace.
As I reflected on the cold November night, as a Catholic, I thought about the timeless story of Mary and Joseph — a young family, much like those in need today, who faced a long journey with nowhere to rest. Despite being turned away by many, they eventually found shelter where Mary could give birth.
This remembrance resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of compassion and connection, especially as we reflect on the challenges vulnerable families face.
That night, I learned — thanks to Cisco's fundraising efforts — that Covenant House is launching a new program in Boston to create 100 units of affordable-for-youth housing. This initiative highlights what is achievable when we unite to make a difference. It reinforces the importance of showing young people, especially those who may not have a forever family, that they are loved and supported.
It also made me realize what an incredible community Cisco is to be part of.
Cisco's commitment to the Sleep Out
Cisco's involvement with the Sleep Out is part of a longstanding tradition of support and advocacy for young folks experiencing homelessness. Since 2014, Cisco has contributed nearly $21 million to Covenant House, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to creating an inclusive future for all.
In 2024, 454 employees across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, and Singapore slept out in solidarity with homeless youth. With every Sleep Out, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that no young person is left without a safe place to call home.
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