Huckleberry House is proud to announce that Dr. Michelle Taylor, widely known as Feminista Jones, will join Sleep Out as a featured guest speaker. Dr. Taylor will speak on the timely and powerful theme, “Harnessing the Power of Community.”
Huckleberry House’s Sleep Out is more than just a night outside. It is a powerful movement that brings our community together for young people facing homelessness. Each year, individuals and teams come together to raise awareness and critical funds to support young people navigating housing instability in our community. Participants spend the night outside to better understand the challenges youth face when they lack a safe place to call home. Sleep Out reminds us that no young person should face homelessness alone. When we come together, we become part of the support system that helps young people find safety, stability, and hope.
Dr. Taylor is a nationally recognized social worker, author, and activist, known for her work at the intersection of community building, equity, and social justice. Through her platform as Feminista Jones, she has sparked national conversations around mental health, trauma, and the importance of collective care. Her message aligns deeply with Huckleberry House’s mission to prevent and end youth homelessness by fostering connection, stability, and opportunity.
“Dr. Taylor’s voice is both powerful and deeply resonant with the work we do every day,” said Jennifer Sharma, CEO of Huckleberry House. “Her perspective on community as a source of strength and healing will inspire all who attend Sleep Out 2026 and reinforce the importance of showing up for young people in crisis.”
Sleep Out will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026 at First Congregational Church/UCC in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Proceeds from Sleep Out directly impact Huckleberry House programs, including its Teen Crisis Program and Shelter, a Transitional Living Program, and Counseling and Outreach services.
Registration will open online on April 13. Individuals, families, and community/corporate teams are encouraged to register, donate, or sponsor the event to help ensure that every young person has access to safe shelter and supportive services. For more information, or to get involved, please visit https://sleepout.rallybound.org/ or contact Carol Argiro, Director of Advancement, at cargiro@huck-house.org
About Huckleberry House
Huckleberry House is a leading provider of services for youth experiencing homelessness and instability in central Ohio. Through a comprehensive approach, that includes crisis intervention, shelter, housing, and counseling, the organization empowers young people to overcome adversity and build stable, independent lives.
Media Contact: