Reading Under the Lights was a wonderful example of what makes Orrville such a special place.
This community event brought together students, families, educators, authors, volunteers, local organizations, donors, and community leaders for an evening focused on literacy, connection, and the joy of reading. From the moment families arrived, it was clear that this event was made possible by many people working together for our children.
We would like to thank Orrville Public Library, Daphne Silchuk Ashcraft, and the library team for their leadership in making this event happen. The event grew from the generosity of the Douglas family, whose support helped inspire a larger community partnership. With the collaboration of the Orrville Area United Way, Orrville City Schools, and many local organizations, Reading Under the Lights became a true community celebration.
We were also honored to welcome Orrville High School graduate Allison Roadruck Rozo, Class of 1999, who shared her and her husband Rafael’s book, Diego Fuego and the Firefighting Dragon, with those in attendance. Having an Orrville graduate return to be part of an event that celebrates reading and community made the evening even more meaningful.
We are also grateful to Carrie Jones, Jay Bishop, our custodial staff, teachers, coaches, students, and volunteers who helped prepare, organize, welcome families, and ensure the evening ran smoothly. More than 60 volunteers gave their time to support this event, and their efforts made a real difference.
Orrville City Schools would also like to thank the many financial sponsors, in-kind donors, and community partners who supported the evening, including the Mary Douglas Family, Hazel Knight and Sarah Henthorne Fund, Orrville Rotary Club, Orrville Exchange Club, Orrville Library Friends, McFarren Family, Orrville Area United Way, Tuesday Book Club, J.M. Smucker Co., Goodwill, Commercial Savings Bank, Buehler’s, Hummel Group, YMCA, Aultman WOW Van, Education Association of Orrville, Growing Healthy Habits, Heartland Education Community, Open Arms Ministry, Orrville High School Baseball Team, Mothers Study I, Orrville Area Boys and Girls Club, OHS Cheerleaders, Rowdy Rider, Orrville Fire Department, Orrville Police Department, and the Salvation Army.
We also want to recognize the Orrville City Schools staff and student groups who helped support the evening, including members of our central office team, building leaders, teachers, coaches, cheerleaders, baseball players, Rowdy Rider, and many others who stepped in wherever needed.
Most importantly, thank you to the children, families, and community members who attended. Seeing our stadium filled with families reading together was a powerful reminder that literacy is not just a school priority. It is a community priority.
Events like these do not happen because of one person or one organization. They happen because Orrville comes together. We are deeply thankful for everyone who helped make Reading Under the Lights such a meaningful and successful evening, and we are already looking forward to next year.