To show solidarity for those living in poverty, a group of people will come together to live for an extended weekend in tents at Guilderland’s Tawasentha Park.
The Tent-A-Thon, which raises money for the Capital District Habitat for Humanity, is in its 19th year. The event provides a unique way to give back to the community, while getting an authentic camping experience in a safe environment.
“We ask participants to give up the comfort of their homes to demonstrate their commitment to Habitat for Humanity’s mission,” said event organizer Nancy Ware.
The event was originally started by the McKownville United Methodist congregation, members of which slept in the parking lot in the back of their church. Now the fundraiser is much larger and a number of denominations and organizations participate.
Each year, participants collect pledge from friends and family members to donate to the cause before spending the night in the park. Each tent is also sponsored by a local business or organization to raise extra money. For those who would like to participate at the last minute, they can donate to the event themselves in order to stay in a tent if the room is available.
All of the money goes into a separate fund from the overall account of the local Habitat for Humanity so event organizers can make sure the money goes directly to building homes within the area.
So far, the event had led to the building of nine homes for local residents in need.
According to Christine Hmiel, the director of development for the Capital District Habitat for Humanity, it takes about $95,000 to have enough money to build a home, but because of state grant money the costs are then lowered for house sponsors. Those participating in this year’s Tent-a-Thon would then need to raise $25,000 to sponsor a completed home.
“This is one of the more family-friendly events that are put on to help our cause,” said Hmiel.
Local restaurants provide free breakfast and dinner for campers, who have the option of staying from one to four nights. Each night there is a family activity like a softball game or an ice cream social, and demonstrations from local wildlife and astronomy groups.
The site is guarded by security during the day so camper can keep their regular work or social schedules.
“This is an especially good way to introduce camping to people who have never done it before because it is happening in a very controlled environment,” said Ware. “It’s also fun for families not too experienced with the outdoors and if they don’t have the equipment, we can find stuff for them.”
The 19th Annual Tent-A-Thon runs from Thursday, Aug. 9, to Monday, Aug. 13, in Tawasentha Park. Those looking to participate can register online by visiting www.capitaldistricthabitat.org or volunteers will be on site the day of the event if additional people would like to camp at the last minute.
