Sleep in Heavenly Peace Service Project
Collin Hayes
The following is a reproduction of an article that I wrote, which appeared in the Genesee Valley Penny Saver and Livingston County News, describing a service project that I organized for the Avon Rotary Club. Avon Rotary is a nonprofit organization classified under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code. Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization classified under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The use of the name, image and likeness of Avon Rotary and Sleep in Heavenly Peace, respectively, does not constitute an endorsement.
On Saturday, March 29th, the spirit of “Service Above Self” was in full swing as the Avon Rotary Club spearheaded a service project in collaboration with Sleep in Heavenly Peace – Rochester (SHP). A dedicated team of 45 volunteers came together to construct 37 beds for local children who currently lack a safe and comfortable place to sleep.
The event, held in Macedon, saw enthusiastic participation from Rotarians representing not only the Avon Club but also the Geneseo, Honeoye Falls-Mendon, Penfield, Rochester Southwest, and Spencerport Clubs. Their efforts were further bolstered by the generous involvement of friends and family, all united by a common goal.
Throughout the day, volunteers worked in teams at specialized stations to assemble each component of a twin bed. One station was dedicated to assembling and sanding the side rails, another to fastening strapping tape to rolls slats, and another to sanding and constructing headboards and footboards, which were then drilled with holes to facilitate easy bolt assembly upon bed delivery. As a final touch, each completed headboard and footboard was branded with the SHP logo.
SHP is an international nonprofit organization, founded in 2012, that is driven by the motto "No Child Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town." With over 300 chapters across the United States and Canada, SHP recognizes that a good night's sleep is fundamental to a child's healthy growth and development. Their core mission is to build and deliver beds to families in need, ensuring no child has to endure the discomfort and insecurity of sleeping on the floor.
The importance of this work is underscored by scientific research. A study published in Lancet Child & Adolescent Health on July 29, 2022, highlighted the critical role of sufficient sleep in healthy brain development. The research indicated that children who consistently get at least nine hours of sleep experience better mental health and exhibit fewer behavioral challenges compared to those with insufficient sleep.
The Rochester chapter of SHP was established in 2019 by Donna and Shawn Ritchie. Their hard work and dedication have resulted in the delivery of over 1,150 beds to families in need throughout Monroe County. Despite their significant impact, the need remains substantial, as evidenced by SHP’s waitlist of over 400 families.
Tim Hayes, a Geneseo Rotarian who volunteered at the event, said, “This is such a worthwhile project. Most of us take for granted a safe and comfortable bed to sleep in. This project was a reminder that too many children in our area go without this basic necessity. It felt good to be able to help local families take care of their kids.”
The successful bed build event was supported by Avon Rotary’s $5,000 donation to Sleep in Heavenly Peace for building supplies. This contribution included $2,910 in District Grant funding from the Rotary Foundation. The Rotary Foundation invests funds donated by Rotarians and channels them back into communities through District Grants, which local Rotary Clubs like Avon can apply for to finance projects that create meaningful change both locally and internationally. This collaborative support within the Rotary network underscores its commitment to service and community betterment.
Beyond the construction efforts, Rotarians also rallied to donate essential bedding items, which will be delivered alongside the newly built beds. Adding an extra layer of warmth and care, the Henrietta Quilt Club contributed handmade bedding, ensuring each child receives not just a bed, but also the comfort of cozy blankets and linens.
This collaborative service project exemplifies the dedication of the Avon Rotary Club and its partners to addressing critical needs within our community. By providing these 37 beds, Rotarians are not only offering a place to sleep but also contributing to the health, well-being, and brighter futures of local children.
