PRESENTED BY DUKE community affairs
Durham county memorial stadium
AUGUST 15, 2026 | 10AM - 2PM
What Is Light the City?
Light the City is one of Durham’s largest community service events, bringing together churches,
nonprofits, businesses, healthcare organizations, and volunteers to serve our city in radical ways.
This year, Light the City will provide:
- $25,000 in utility bill assistance for Durham residents
- School supplies for every middle school student in Durham Public Schools
- Free household items (small appliances, diapers, toiletries, paper goods, etc.)
- Health and Wellness Services (BP), A1C, Cholesterol, BMI, Depression screening, Heart Disease Risk Assessment)
- Family-friendly activities and entertainment
Throughout the day, families and residents will receive support, resources, encouragement, and
opportunities designed to strengthen our community.
Over 500 people are prepared to volunteer in various capacities! You should be one of them!
UTILITY ASSISTANCE
Come Be Blessed!
This year, Light the City will provide:
- $25,000 in utility bill assistance for Durham residents and Duke Energy Customers.
Utility Bill Assistance Eligibility:
To qualify for utility assistance, participants must bring:
- Proof of Durham Residency AND
- A recent Physical copy of your Duke Energy utility bill AND
- A valid photo ID matching the utility account address AND
- Be present at the event to receive assistance.
** Assistance is limited and available while funds last. Assistance will be provided per ONE per household. **
SERVICE PROJECTs
Come Be A Blessing!
Over 500 volunteers will come together to serve Durham through hands-on community projects
throughout the day.
One of our major service initiatives includes packing school supplies for every Durham Public
Schools middle schooler to help families prepare for a successful school year.
Additional volunteer opportunities include:
- Community giveaway distribution
- Hospitality and guest support
- Health and wellness assistance
- Family activity support
- Parking control
Whether you are an individual, family, ministry, business, or community organization, there is a
place for you to serve. Volunteer Registration is required! Volunteers MUST be 16 years old and older.
COMMUNITY GIVEAWAYS
Thanks to our partners, families will have access to free household items and essential resources throughout the day!
Giveaways may include:
- Household essentials
- Hygiene products
- Cleaning supplies
- Family care items
- Back-to-school resources
- Additional surprise giveaways
HEALTH & WELLNESS Services
Light the City is committed to supporting the total well-being of our community.
Free services and resources may include:
- Mobile dental services
- Health screenings
- Wellness resources
- Hearing screenings
- Community health education
- Family support resources
Fun for the Whole Family
Light the City is more than a service event — it is a community celebration!
- Food trucks
- Bounce houses
- Live DJ and entertainment
- Face painting
- Family activities
- Games and more
Admission is completely FREE.
Our Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Community Sponsors
More PARTNERS
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event free?
Yes! Light the City is completely free and open to the public.
Do I need to register?
Registration is encouraged for volunteers but community attendance is free and open.
Where should I park?
Parking will be available in the gravel lot at Durham County Memorial Stadium. Please follow parking directions!
What happens if utility assistance funds run out?
Utility assistance is first come, first served while funds are available.
Can my organization partner or volunteer?
Absolutely! We welcome churches, businesses, nonprofits, and community groups to serve
alongside us.
Groups of 10 or more, please contact fcbcministry@firstcalvary.org.
Durham, We’re Showing Up For You.
Join us for a powerful day of service, generosity, hope, and community.
Saturday, August 15, 2026 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Durham County Memorial Stadium 750 Stadium Drive, Durham, NC, 27704
