Host Housing
We are pleased to offer limited host housing on a first-come, first-served basis for families traveling to compete in The Desert Gem.
To ensure a fair and organized process for everyone, all host housing requests must go through our Host Housing Coordinator—even if you have a friend who has offered to host your family. This helps us manage placements accurately and prevents double-booking situations. By keeping all communication centralized, we can serve both guests and host families smoothly and respectfully.
Please note: Host family preferences (e.g., available space, number of guests) and guest considerations (e.g., allergies, special needs) are taken into account to ensure a good match. While we do our best to accommodate everyone, not all requests can be guaranteed.
Before submitting your request, please review the following carefully.
Request Deadline
If you would like to be considered for host housing, please submit your request by December 9th when registration ends.
Requests will not be accepted after December 9th or once all available host homes are full — whichever comes first.
What You Can Expect from Your Host Home
- A place to sleep (may be a bed, sofa, or space on the floor for your air mattress and sleeping bags)
- Access to a bathroom to shower and get ready for the tournament
- Small space in the refrigerator for food
What Your Host Can Expect from You
- A thankful heart and Christlike attitude
- Carefully supervised children at all times, regardless of age
- No smoking in or near host home
Our hosts open their homes out of generosity and a shared love for the speech and debate community. Let’s ensure they have a wonderful experience with their guests!
How to Request Host Housing
Please contact our Host Housing Coordinator, Liz Sowles, at liz.sowles@gmail.com
To help us find the best host home for your family, please copy and paste the questions below into your email and answer each one completely.
Email Subject Line: TDG Host Housing Request – [Your Family’s Last Name]
Include the following in your email:
- Total number of people who need housing.
- Name and gender of each adult.
- Home address, cell phone number, and email address for each adult.
- Name, age, and gender of each competitor.
- Name, age, and gender of each non-competing child (if applicable).
- Estimated arrival and departure days/times (e.g., Wed–Sun, Thur–Sat).
- Any special needs or limitations your host family should know about?
- Any allergies?
- Name of your speech and debate club.
Important Note: If you find other accommodations after submitting your request, please notify the Host Housing Coordinator right away so we can free up space for another family.
Thank you for helping us serve our STOA family well!