20091116

SYLNight 2008

December 13th offered perfect crisp winter weather. It could have been a bit warmer, but this is why we gather to sip hot cocoa, warm up by Chimaneas, and eat freshly made warm and satisfying… chili?! WOW! What a great idea!

Seen in the photo above is a festive neighbor in Homestead pulling a wagon full of chili and drinks to their block gathering. We commend their originality in making a wagon their festive vehicle decorated with Christmas lights. How fun are they! You all get the spirit award! One could easily envision SYLNight parades in your future.

In another neighborhood, the Charlestown area of Kempsville had nearly 2000 luminaries lining their streets with Santa pulling a trailer filled with talented carolers, mounted police, and Celebration Stations offering cookies and drink. Neighbors parked their vehicles at the gathering areas to play Christmas music as they socialized. Baycliff neighbors not only enjoyed illuminated streets, but also warmly received carolers offering the gift of song. We are thankful for the joyful memories made by involved neighbors.

These types of neighborhood organizations encapsulate the precise spirit SYLNight wants to encourage in every community. Everyone has a talent to offer - either the talent of a beautiful voice, the skill to build a festive atmosphere, or simply the gift of gab. All it takes to bring out these assets are community leaders who simply encourage their neighbors to become involved in the community through SYLNight – a festive holiday tradition.

SYLNight participants will be meeting in February to debrief and plan for next year. For more information, email shareyourlightnight@yahoo.com or call 714-2772.
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DO YOU WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Illuminate that golden thread that unites us all... be part of Share Your Light Night each year.

WHAT: Luminaries are illuminated bags set in a line creating a ribbon of light symbolizing neighborhood unity.

WHEN: EVERY YEAR - Generally held on the second Saturday in December each year starting between 6-7PM. It could also be organized for National Night Out in August, or every year for 9-11.

The official time and date is set by each neighborhood organization (civic league, neighborhood watch, unite community neighbor leaders). Each participating group from this time forward are invited to be part of this blog so that they can share their stories, photos, and success.

WHERE: Along the edge of property lines or common areas when permission is granted.

HOW: Coordinate through your Civic League, HOA/Condo Association, Neighborhood Watch group, House of Worship or other community based group. However, as an individual, you can seed this event on your own by getting 3 or so of your neighbors to participate with you.

WHY: SEE LIST BELOW - BENEFITS

THE COST: It depends upon you and your neighborhood organization. For more information, contact Illuminate A Cause, LLC at 757-714-2772.

BENEFITS - What difference can this event make?

One word:
EMPOWERMENT...

FOR THE CITY:
By empowering citizens to show solidarity, citizens will work as partners with each other, local Police Departments, Parks and Rec and youth to create solutions to crime and other social issues.

FOR UNITED NEIGHBOR COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:
Empowerment and improved safety and security for the neighborhood. Validation of the value of civic leagues and homeowner associations.

FOR NEIGHBORHOODS:
Neighborhood unity and camaraderie, a safer community less prone to vandalism.

FOR THE CITIZENS:
Better communications and closer relationships between the citizens, civic leagues, city representatives and law enforcement agencies is a good thing. It reduces cost and improves efficiency.

Video of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania sharing their light.

Will you participate?

Pledge Form

Grassroots SYLNight Video