Street Sense Vendor for a Day

Vendor for a Day (VFAD)  is a program in which student groups in the D.C. area sell Street Sense papers for a day as a way to have a meaningful, personal learning experience about homelessness and poverty. These groups come from all over the country, and from many different cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. This is a great activity to pare with the the Faces of Homeless Speakers Bureau and Street Outreach with Capital Hill Group Ministry.

Time and Schedule of Events

VFAD is a three-hour program at two times during a day, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM, and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.  The program is available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays only.

• 10:00 AM/1:30PM: Introduction and orientation led by a volunteer or staff member. This meeting will cover a brief introduction to homeless and some of the stereotypes people hold about homelessness, the history and mission of Street Sense, and the protocol for selling the paper. Students will also hear a personal story from a vendor volunteer who will serve as their guide.
• 11:00 AM/2:30PM: Sales. A Street Sense vendor will take small groups (7-10 students per vendor) out to sell papers.
• 12:30 PM/4:00PM: Debriefing and Reflections.

Who can participate?

Student groups from middle school to college level are welcome.

Where?

Students meet at the Street Sense office at 1317 G Street NW, and accompany a vendor to their selling location.

Contact

Arrangements can be made through Street Sense Community Development and Program Manager at 202-347-2006 or Alan@streetsense.org. A typical day’s schedule is generally as follows:

Note: This event takes place rain or shine, so students should dress for the weather. Water bottles are highly recommended, particularly in the summer months.