The fifth annual Sleep Out to raise awarenes and monetary donations for home heating assistance needs in northwest Michigan returns Nov. 4. The Sleep Out begins at 4:30pm and lasts through the night at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center. Community members scheduled or invited to participate include: Cmdr. Gregory Matyas, U.S. Coast Guard; Chief Pat Parker, GT Metro Fire; Kristine Erickson, GT County Parks and Recreation; Brandon Everest, NMC; Kent Wood, TC Chamber; Steve RAwlings, DTE Energy; Doug DeYoung, Consumers Energy; John Stephenson, NW Michigan Community Action Agency; Kevin Bavers, NW Michigan Community Action Agency; Tony Anderson, Cherryland Electric Cooperative; Steve Wade, GT Regional Community Foundation; Mike Hill, TBAISD; Joe Charlevoix, TV 7&4; Rick Coates & Omelette, WKLT.

New this year, NMC students are attempting to raise sponsor donations for 10 camping spots. Participation opportunities include:

– Firestarter ($1,084) – Bring a logoed tent or support one of the guest campers and have your logo displayed on their tent and receive formal recognition at the event and in media communication. Includes camping for up to five people. (Provides emergency heating reconnect assistance this winter for one family)

– Camper ($271) – Bring a tent for up to 5 people. (Provides one month of utility assistance this winter for one family)

– Absentee ($271) – Sponsor one of our guest campers and have your logo placed on their tent. (Provides a month of heating assistance for one family)

To sponsor one of NMC's tents or those of other special guests, contact Kevin Bavers at (231) 947-3780. This year's event is co-sponsored by the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency and the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce.