Summer Night Lights (SNL)

About the Program

SNL offers free, family-friendly evening events that provide positive programming and a welcoming, safe environment for youth of all ages. Events are hosted in partnership with a wide range of community organizations, including:

• Tulare County Board of Supervisors
• Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency
• Plus, many other community partners

Since Summer 2011, SNL has served thousands of youth, families, and community members countywide.

Program Vision

The SNL program aims to:

• Keep at least one youth- and family-centered venue open during evening hours in host communities
• Provide positive, structured programming for youth and families throughout Tulare County
• Foster positive interactions between youth and local law enforcement
• Create a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for all attendees
• Serve free food at every event
• Offer community organizations, including churches, an opportunity to connect residents with available services 

Program Goals

• Provide safe recreational opportunities for youth of all ages
• Reduce crimes committed by and against youth during the summer months
• Support the local economy through temporary jobs, training opportunities, and the purchase of food and event supplies

How to Participate

Organizations approved to host SNL events may receive $1,000 per event, for a maximum of four (4) events.

Funding guidelines:

• Funds may only be used to cover programming materials, food, and activities
• Funds may not be used to pay staff salaries for administration, coordination, or supervision

Event Requirements

All SNL events must:

• Take place between May 1 and August 13, 2026
• Be free and open to the public
• Include both food and a planned activity

Mandatory Grant Workshop (Required)

Attendance at a mandatory grant-writing workshop is required to apply for funding.

Workshop Dates
2027 Dates To Be Determined

Location
Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency – Government Plaza
5957 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93277

Important Notice
Organizations that do not attend a workshop will not be eligible to apply.

Important Deadline
All required documents must be submitted by Friday, March 6, 2026, to ensure funding and promotional materials are ready in time for your events.

Required Documents

1. Invoice
   • Required to process payment
   • Must list the total number of events and cost per event ($1,000 each)
   • See Invoice Template in Downloads below
2. Community Planning Guide
   • Must include event details for each night
   • Identify a primary contact person for each event site
   • See Planning Guide in Downloads below
3. Flyer(s)
   • Must include the new Step Up logo
   • Clearly list event date, time, and location
   • Must prominently include the word FREE

After Your Event

Following the completion of your SNL events, please submit:

1. Copies of all receipts for each event
2. Event photos, which should be shared with the Step Up Coordinator and posted on HHSA social media platforms

Downloads