Why Green Valley Supports Open Doors
I hope you will read the short article below about Open Doors and their upcoming fundraiser - The Coldest Night of the Year run/walk. Green Valley is participating and we are proud to be one of the sponsors of this event. But first I want to share a little of the WHY behind our support for Open Doors.
At Green Valley, we support a number of local, national, and international charities—but we do so with purpose. Our giving is approached through the lens of Scripture, with the intention of bringing honor and glory to God.
In many ways, Open Doors is a first responder in the world of homelessness: they open the doors and offer assistance to those who are struggling.
Over the past 12 years or so, we have had the opportunity to serve meals and eat with folks staying at Open Doors. I spent several nights as an overnight volunteer when Open Doors was held in church fellowship halls. During those times, I was privileged to meet people and to hear their stories. We packed breakfast to go for one gentleman because his boss was picking him up at 6am for work. He was working full time but hadn’t been able to save up enough to pay a 1 or 2 month downpayment along with first month rent and electricity fees. There were other stories of folks just lacking that safety net when there is a bump in the road of life. Open Doors provides that safety net, and at the time that meant a mattress on the tile floor in the church basement.
Welcome to the Navigation Center.
When I first visited the new home of Open Doors, I was blown away. Not just in the facility and the beds with storage lockers below and walls to provide some privacy; NO, I was blown away by the number of additional services now available to the unhoused in the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County communities. Lat year alone, Open Doors was able to connect 48 guests with long term housing solutions. They truly are making a difference in our community.
Take a moment to read the article below and learn more about Open Doors and The Coldest Night of the Year. I hope you will join us on February 28th for the Coldest Night of the Year walk and more importantly I hope you will join us in supporting Open Doors.
Walking for Warmth — The Coldest Night of the Year
What is The Coldest Night of the Year?
Coldest Night of the Year is a community walk that helps us step—just a little—into what winter can feel like for neighbors who don’t have a safe place to sleep. It’s a night of fun, connection, and purpose, and it raises critical funds for local organizations serving people experiencing homelessness.
Who Open Doors Serves
Open Doors exists for a clear and urgent mission: To provide safe shelter for the unhoused, as well as compassionate support and access to services for all in the Harrisonburg–Rockingham community. Their work is rooted in values we deeply respect: dignity, integrity, compassion, advocacy, and kindness.
Open Doors began serving the community with thermal shelter services in 2007 under the name HARTS (Harrisonburg and Rockingham Thermal Shelter). In 2013, HARTS became Open Doors. Their services have continued to grow—especially with the opening of the Navigation Center.
The Navigation Center: A Place of Safety and Support
Open Doors now operates out of the Navigation Center, which is home to:
A low-barrier emergency shelter for adults
A weekday daytime drop-in center open to all in the community
This model extends critical services to the greater Harrisonburg–Rockingham community—whether someone is currently housed or unhoused.
In 2025, Open Doors:
Provided emergency shelter for 348 unique individuals
Supported 229 unique individuals through the Drop-in Center
Connected 48 guests with long-term housing solutions
They carry out their mission for our community, with our community.
Your Support Matters (More Than You Might Think)
Many people assume Open Doors is primarily funded through government because of their partnership with the City of Harrisonburg—but that’s not the case.
Open Doors receives zero funding from state or federal sources
Less than 25% of their annual budget comes from local government
The rest comes from individuals, faith communities, local businesses, and community supporters
Even small, consistent support makes a difference. With as little as $8/month, supporters can sponsor beds for guests.
Coldest Night of the Year Event Details
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Where: Choose a CNOY location near you—or walk offsite in your neighborhood
Distance: 1 or 3 miles (2 or 5 km)
Who: Everyone is welcome—families, churches, businesses, schools, and community groups
Cost: Free to register (fundraising is how your walk will change lives)
Join/Support the GVAM Team: Green Valley Auctions and Moving Team
Info/Sign Up: https://cnoy.com/location/harrisonburg
How It Works:
Register online (a team or individually)
Create your personal fundraising page
Set a meaningful fundraising goal
Send emails to friends and family to support your walk
Learn More About Open Doors
Want to learn more about Open Doors—who they serve and how they support our community?
Visit: https://www.valleyopendoors.org/aboutus