20090430

DO YOU WANT TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Luminaries (or luminarias) are paper bags with sand inside for an anchor and a light source within. They are used outdoors to decorate for the holidays. Neighbors throughout the country set out these luminaries creating ribbons of light to create beauty and celebrate the holiday season. However, St. Augustine, FL and other areas use these luminaries for many different events throughout the year.

(Note- the luminaries coordinated for our neighborhoods are the safest items available– plastic base to be filled with water or sand and bright non-flame LED tea lights).

SYLNight builds upon the spirit of all holidays in December and is scheduled for the Second Saturday in December by enlisting the volunteers of Civic Leagues, Homeowner Associations, Neighborhood Watch groups and other community based organizations to help organize these events. These organizations could use the products to raise funds for charities or and other community needs not covered by local governments.

Groups may light the entryways of neighborhoods or common areas in either apartment or condominium complexes. In tandem, they encourage neighbors to come outside during the event by having friendly neighbors or HOAs/Civic Leagues/NHWatch groups set up celebration stations, offer warm cocoa and cider, offer song and cheer, carol door-to-door, arrange horse and carriage rides in well-lit areas… while building upon the spirit all religions share – unity and love. These events have proven to unite neighborhoods nationally and locally.

If you are interested and are part of a non-profit group who wishes to adopt this event and grow it, help of others, make a difference in the lives of all people on the most basic level, contact SYLNights@yahoo.com NOW! Whether you and your organization is considering taking a small or large role in this movement to unite neighbors, build camaraderie, and establish relationships all while raising money for charities, please email us your questions and thoughts.

Bookmark the www.ShareYourLightNight.blogspot.com event website and review the archives showing photo and newspaper write-ups for even more information.
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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