At Making Spirits Bright, our mission is simple yet powerful: to create equitable access to books and inspire a love of reading for families across Metro Detroit. One of the ways we bring this mission to life is through our Family Literacy Nights—joy-filled evenings hosted in partnership with Brilliant Detroit hubs, where families come together to read, play, and grow.
These events are more than just book giveaways—they are immersive, community-centered experiences designed to foster early literacy skills while strengthening bonds between children, parents, and neighbors. Take a peek inside to see what Literacy Nights look like:
1. Welcome & Family Check-In
Families arrive in the evening to transformed community homes which are now Brilliant Detroit Hubs. They are greeted by smiling Brilliant Detroit Staff, Making Spirits Bright volunteers and neighbors that have gathered for a night of memories. Children receive a warm welcome that immediately sets the tone for the evening. A short overview helps everyone know what to expect, and the excitement is already in the air!
2. Opening Circle & Story Time
We begin with a group gathering for storytime, where a Making Spirits Bright volunteer brings a beloved book to life. A popular one is when MSB Founder Maria Dismondy reads her book, Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun! No matter what the story, the stories spark curiosity and conversation. At the Russell Woods hub, kids have been known to chant along with the alphabet and dance between stories!
3. Creative Literacy Activities
After storytime, families enjoy a variety of activities. Each one is designed to support early literacy in fun, hands-on ways. Some of the activities are painting, letter Tracing, decorating journals, counting, number Games, ABC songs and dancing! These moments of play are actually building blocks—supporting letter recognition, comprehension, and the joy of learning.
4. Family Engagement & Book Selection
Next, families get to pick from a beautiful selection of age-appropriate books to build or grow their Home Libraries! MSB Volunteers share tips on how to make reading part of daily routines, and parents often leave with renewed confidence in supporting their child’s learning journey. Kids take ownership of their reading by choosing books that feel personal to them!
5. Community Meal
Dinner is served! Gathering around the table or cozy nooks around the hub, families share a meal and enjoy a moment to unwind together. It’s more than just food—it’s connection. Kids talk about their favorite activity of the night, and parents connect with one another in a welcoming space. A popular meal on these nights is…Spaghetti, in a Hot Dog Bun of course!
6. Closing & Takeaways
As the evening winds down, each child receives a take-home literacy kit that includes a home library crate, books, a journal, and reading guides for parents. With hugs and high-fives, families say goodbye, already asking when the next Literacy Night will be!
These evenings aren’t just events—they’re pathways to empowerment. When families have access to books and a space to learn together, it creates lasting change. That’s what we’re building at Making Spirits Bright, one Literacy Night at a time.
Visit our Instagram page or Facebook Page to check out recent Literacy Night photos and videos! Highlights include story circles, colorful crafts, and the smiles that say it all.
Want to get involved? Volunteer, donate books, or support our mission by following us @makingspiritsbrightorg on Instagram and Facebook.
Read more about Brilliant Detroit from a recent Community Partner Spotlight blog post by Logan May.
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