Illuminate the Night
Anythink
Innovation Synopsis
Anythink Wright Farms hosted an evening event to mark the end of its mySummer program. This program included live music, spoken word, owls, moon yoga, lights and lanterns, a group processional and viewing of the lantern installation by artist Helen Hiebert. The event promoted community healing by shining literal and metaphorical light in the dark.
Challenge/Opportunity
After supporting Adams County residents during the darkest parts of the COVID-19 pandemic, staff knew that community members desired a space to gather together and experience joy. To conclude 2022’s mySummer program, which had the theme of wishes, Anythink created Illuminate the Night to address this need and foster community nurturing.
Artist Helen Hiebert taught lantern-making workshops throughout the district that summer. Customers brought their lanterns to the event and joined in a celebration of hope and light.
Key Elements of Innovation
Led by Anythink Wright Farms staff and inspired by artist Helen Hiebert’s large-scale paper lantern, this event was the first of its kind for Anythink. It was held after hours on a summer evening in the yard of Anythink’s main branch, and it brought together musicians, astronomers, a yoga instructor, master falconers, and more to delight hundreds of customers and foster intergenerational community healing.
Achieved Outcomes
Success was measured through attendance, participation and community feedback. Over 250 people attended the event, surpassing the goal of 200, and all activity stations were active throughout the night.
“Last night our local library held an end of summer celebration. It was so thoughtful, gentle and caring, embracing the community and acknowledging our collective pain, loss and struggle through the pandemic. It brought tears to my eyes the whole time. Thank you, Anythink.” – Adrienne B., Anythink Customer
