COTS Phonathon

The COTS Phonathon is our oldest fundraiser. Each year volunteers call past supporters to ask for support. Join us in supporting the homeless community by participating. Together, we can make a difference!

Donate to the Phonathon

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What is the Phonathon?

The COTS Phonathon takes place from November 30th to December 3rd, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. each evening. You can participate as many nights as you would like. All volunteering can be done virtually, but on Monday, November 30, we’re also hosting an optional in-person kickoff event at 95 North Avenue with food, drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

The Phonathon is one of our longest-running and most important fundraising efforts, supporting more than half of COTS’ annual budget. Since the 1980s, volunteers have come together during the week after Thanksgiving to ask donors to make a gift in support of our work. It’s a meaningful tradition held in a warm, holiday setting!

Support our biggest fundraiser of the year, it's essential to keeping our programs strong and thriving!

2026 Volunteer Hub:

How can I help?

Your participation plays a vital role in helping us meet our fundraising goal and continue supporting those who are experiencing homelessness in our community.

Volunteer for the Phonathon

Caller Materials for Volunteers

Volunteer opportunities for the COTS Phonathon are as follows...

Volunteer to Call Donors

Here is a helpful Phonathon instructional video. You can call from home or join us in person on December 1st! Younger supporters are welcome to join with parents- making phone calls is a valuable life skill, and this is a great opportunity to practice! Participate as many nights as you would like

Volunteer to Phone-A-Friend

If making phone calls isn’t your thing, you can still help by reaching out to your own network. Text, email, message on social media, or contact people in whatever way feels comfortable. Just ask them to consider making a gift to COTS. Be sure to have them mention you on their donation!

Gather your friends and Host a Calling Party

Rally your office, church group, school club, or any team you're part of to make calls together! We can even come speak to help get things started. Timing can be flexible to fit into your groups schedule.

The Difference a Dollar Makes

$24

Covers the cost of an ID, which is needed to apply for housing.

$100

Covers four nights of emergency shelter at the Waystation for single adults.

$310

Covers the average cost of moving and storage.

$535

Covers the average utility assistance payment.

$1,100

Is the average financial assist needed to help households avoid eviction.

COTS Phonathon

Donate to the Phonathon

What is the Phonathon?

2026 Volunteer Hub:

The Difference a Dollar Makes

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