FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DETROIT, MI — For the second consecutive year, Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation (SMSB) will host a Lights On Afterschool celebration, bringing together youth, families, policymakers, community leaders and statewide partners to highlight the critical role out-of-school time (OST) programs play in supporting young people. In partnership with the Michigan After-School Partnership (MASP) and Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), the event will take place Monday, October 26, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at SMSB Headquarters in Detroit.
As Michigan’s largest OST program, SMSB provides young people with safe, supportive spaces beyond the traditional school day where they can strengthen academic skills, explore new interests, build relationships and prepare for future opportunities. During Lights On, guests will experience that work firsthand as students participate in interactive eSports, art, media and content creation, STEM and robotics activities.
The event also celebrates SMSB’s continued partnership with MASP and MiLEAP and a shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality afterschool opportunities for Michigan youth. Representatives from MASP and MiLEAP will join SMSB leaders, policymakers and community stakeholders to recognize the impact of OST programming and the importance of sustained investment in programs that support students, families and communities.
“Out-of-school time is an essential part of how we support the whole child,” said Curtis Blackwell, President of Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation and Afterschool Ambassador. “Our partnership with MASP and MiLEAP allows us to create opportunities that expose young people to new experiences, reinforce what happens during the school day and give families access to safe, engaging environments for their children. Lights On gives us an opportunity to show that impact in action.”
The evening will culminate with the unveiling of a new MASP- and MiLEAP-sponsored mural, created by artist John Baker III, symbolizing the collective commitment to Michigan’s youth and the future of afterschool programming. SMSB students will participate in the unveiling alongside organizational leaders, partners and invited guests.
SMSB’s second consecutive Lights On celebration follows the organization being named a 2025 Afterschool Excellence Award winner by MASP, further recognizing its leadership and commitment to high-quality out-of-school time experiences.
Event Details
WHAT: SMSB Lights On Afterschool Celebration & Mural Unveiling
WHEN: Monday, October 26, 2026 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
WHERE: SMSB Headquarters | 11433 Beaconsfield, Detroit, MI 48224
About Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation
Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation is a Detroit-based youth development organization and Michigan’s largest out-of-school time program, providing education, athletics, mentorship, college and career readiness, and enrichment opportunities designed to help young people thrive in school and beyond.
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