Why We Sleep Out: Reggie’s Story

Participate or Give to Reggie’s Sleepout

For nearly two decades, Reggie’s Sleepout has raised awareness and funds for homeless youth services in central Iowa. The event is named in honor of Reggie Kelsey, a young man whose tragic death sparked a movement.

In October 2000, Reggie was kicked out of his foster care placement. Only 17 years old, he moved from a group home to his own apartment. An investigative report by the state later found that information available at the time “clearly indicates Reggie was not ready for independent living.”

With multiple mental health diagnosis, Reggie’s anxieties and behaviors worsened as he found himself with more free time and less supervision. He was caught stealing, breaking curfew, missing school, and burning things in his apartment.

In early February 2001, Reggie informed the independent living program staff he longer felt safe in the apartment, and he was discharged. Around the same time, he was expelled from school and never returned.

By the time he turned 18, Reggie had nowhere to go. He bounced from one shelter to another, occasionally sleeping on the streets. He suffered from depression and hallucinations.

On May 28, 2001, Reggie’s body was found in the Des Moines River. According to the investigation, “the Deputy State Medical Examiner concluded Reggie died by drowning and reported the manner of death as suicide.”

The tragedy drew widespread attention to failures in the system. As a result, YSS led the effort to develop the Iowa Aftercare Services Network (IASN) in 2002 to provide services to those aging out of foster care. YSS continues to lead the program today, supporting foster care alumni with stipends, resources, technology, and more.

In 2005, Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC), a YSS organization, started Reggie’s Sleepout and invited hundreds of participants camp out to support the cause. This year’s event on Nov. 1 at Drake Stadium.

Reggie’s Sleepout reinforces our commitment to help youth like Reggie—and end homelessness for good. If you want to support the event, make a donation or click here to participate.

Day-Of Agenda:

Reggie’s Sleepout – Event Schedule

Drake Stadium – West Entrance (Main Entrance)
Saturday, November 1st, 2025

Doors Open: 12:00 PM | Lights Out: 11:00 PM

12:00 PM – Gates Open

Check-in & welcome area
Guests can begin setting up their sleepout areas & building structures
DJ Set #1 Begins (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM) – (Chuck Fresh)

2:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Food Trucks Open

Enjoy a variety of local vendors and food options

2:00 – 9pm – Yard Games are open and available

Set up in West corner

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – DJ Set #2 – Chaise Russell

Live music, energizing the event atmosphere

3:00pm – Opening Remarks from Erin Kiernan (5-10minutes)

3:00pm – This is when most people will begin to arrive to start building their structures

2:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Interactive Art Activities

Collaborative canvas art on concourse
This is not a mandatory activity but offers a great break from building

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Talent Show (Main Stage)

School of Rock (Greg Moore) will open talent show for 45 min.
Performances from individuals & groups
Grandview perform at 6pm for 25min.
Hosted by Erin Kiernan

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – DJ Set #3 – DJScam Newton

Last call for Food Trucks at 6pm (Closing at 7pm)

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Finishing Touches on Structures

Wrap up building structures
Andrew Allen (10-15min) – introduce honorary chairs and thank you’s @ 7:15pm
Box Contest & judging takes place @ 7:30pm
Message from Ryan Crane, Executive Director at NAMI (importance of mental health and acknowledging LGBTQ community) @ 7:30pm
Julian Dismute speaks at 7:50pm (or when Ryan wraps up)
People are encouraged to finish art or relax or play yard games

9:00 PM – 10:00 PM – DJ Set #4 – Quashonda again (Chuck Fresh)