Unite to Light’s third annual Unite to Light the Night art festival and fundraiser brought in more than $145,000 to further the organization’s mission of providing solar light and power to the 750 million people worldwide who live without electricity.
The event, held at the Community Arts Workshop in Santa Barbara, brought together some 50 artists and performers who used light as their medium or inspiration, showcasing creativity and innovation in illuminating ways.
The evening consisted of three events: The Glow Gala, a VIP evening for sponsors and supporters; the Community Showcase, which was free and open to the public; and the Bright Bash, a dance party with a purpose.
Each event offered something unique, from artistic displays to community engagement, all while supporting a greater cause. All three events were set among the art exhibit, allowing some 500 attendees to interact with and explore the artworks.
The funds raised will support initiatives such as creating Light Libraries in schools across Zambia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.
Funds also will be used for disaster relief efforts, building on previous partnerships during Hurricane Helene, where Unite to Light worked with World Central Kitchen, Direct Relief, and ShelterBox to provide solar lights, and solar power for phone charging and Wi-Fi hotspots for affected communities in North Carolina.
Community partners who were instrumental in the event’s success included MOXI, STUDIO Bar & Soundroom, Children’s Creative Project, Explore Ecology, 10 West Gallery, Selah Dance, State Street Ballet, UCSB’s Media Arts and Technology Program, and WorldViz.
“We are grateful to all of the artists, sponsors, volunteers, community partners, and our Board of Directors, staff and event committee members who brought this event to light,” said Megan Birney Rudert, Unite to Light’s president/CEO.
“Unite to Light the Night was a shining example of how art, community, and philanthropy can come together to light up lives across the globe,” she said.
For more about the work of Unite to Light, visit UnitetoLight.org.