The General Manager of the New York Red Bulls, Jerome de Bontin, will soon encounter a side of New York that he has never experienced. On November 21st, just one week before Thanksgiving, Bontin will spend a night on the streets of New York in order to raise awareness and charitable donations for homeless youths.
The “Sleep-Out: Executive Edition”, organized by Covenant House, gathers business executives to spend a night on the streets. Offering transitional housing services in 22 cities throughout North America, Covenant House opens their doors to kids in need. Covenant believes that “it doesn’t matter whether you are the vice president of a Fortune 500 company or an executive of a local business, you can make a difference by sleeping out for just one night.”
Last year more than 450 business leaders managed to collectively raise $3,000,000. This year the New York Red Bulls’ General Manager and Covenant House want to increase that number. Bontin set a personal goal to raise $5,000 to combat this issue that affects over 50,000 kids across North America.
Bontin, speaking on why he joined said, “My family and I have been supporters of the Covenant House for many years. The Covenant House has done an amazing job of helping young men and women get off the street and guide them towards a better future.”
When it comes to soccer in New York City, Bontin has demonstrated commitment and dedication. After his first full year as General Manager, the Red Bulls are continuing their successful regular season campaign into the playoffs. In addition to the team’s accomplishments, Bontin has also forged relationships for the local development of youth soccer and offered the first narrated-action broadcast for blind and visually impaired MLS fans.
This time, Bontin will substantiate his charitable efforts by braving the New York streets face to face as he said, “I am determined to raise awareness for these children’s deplorable situation and will sleep out in solidarity with all of those who are less fortunate. I know that it will be a challenging experience and I am looking forward to the support of my family, my friends and the broad based soccer community.”
Whether you support the Red Bulls, Bontin, or the fight against homelessness, click here to support the General Manager’s fundraising page or here to learn more about Covenant House.
