Hoping to establish a growing tradition, Lights 4 Hope Inc. has for the second year decorated a drive-through holiday light spectacular at Okeeheelee Park at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd.
Scores of cars were lined up just after sunset when the show opened last Sunday night. Most were filled with families supporting the organization’s cause and celebrating the season of lights.
“The nonprofit organization was created to spread happiness and hope and brighten the holidays for those in need,” explained volunteer Kristine Minerva, who added that it takes a lot of volunteers to put on the event, which operates Friday and Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m. through Dec. 29.
“This is Lights 4 Hope’s annual fundraising event to raise money for children in local hospitals and for families in need. The price is just $12 per carload of up to eight people,” Minerva said. “Throughout the season, proceeds from the show are used to bring presents to patients at local hospitals and also decorations and gifts to patients that are recommended by the hospitals.”
She said that the group of people who founded the organization have always had a passion for holiday decorating and wanted to find a way to transfer that joy to those in need during the holidays.
“Hosting this event provides the resources needed to provide presents, decorations and assistance to children and families in need,” Minerva said. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and families we help makes it all worthwhile.”
Minerva explained that a team of volunteers spent about three weeks setting up the displays for the show, and creative ideas for new displays are kicked around and worked on throughout the year.
“It takes a lot of work to put on a show like this,” she said.
For more information, visit www.lights4hope.org.
