Be a Part of the Light, now in its 8th year, is My Block, My Hood, My City’s annual holiday initiative to bring joy, connection and hope to Chicago’s South Side. Each year, volunteers and community members come together to transform Martin Luther King Jr. Drive with festive holiday lights, replacing the cold glow of police cameras with the warm colors of celebration. The campaign interrupts cycles of isolation and trauma by creating spaces where neighbors can gather, smile, and feel seen. Through simple acts—stringing lights, sharing cheer, and showing up—we remind communities that they matter and that we are all connected.

How It Works

• Meet us at 8330 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive at 12:00 PM

• Pick up decorating supplies and get assigned to a local home

• Help light up the neighborhood with holiday decorations

• Carpooling is encouraged; access to a car is needed