Sip, Paint & Connect: Target Area Development Hosts Creative Night at Lindblom Park

Artists of all levels picked up their brushes, donned aprons, and immersed themselves in creativity during a family-friendly “Paint & Sip” hosted by Target Area Development at Lindblom Park. The event was part of Light in the Night, a Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) program aimed at reclaiming public spaces.

While there was shared excitement to paint, sip non-alcoholic beverages, and unwind, Marques Ray, an organizer from Target Area Development and the event’s emcee, emphasized a deeper purpose throughout the night. “We know you all come out to have fun… We want you all to have fun with your community,” he expressed, underlining the event’s goal of connecting those with their neighbors.

Approximately 60 people packed the activity room in Lindblom Park, with half of that number being children. The canvases provided featured an array of stencils, giving participants the freedom to choose their preferred design. In between painting, talking, and laughing, participants also ate and grooved to a DJ.

A raffle happening throughout the night added even more fun. While those whose ticket numbers were called had the privilege of the first choice of candles and self-care products, every participant walked away not only with a prize, but also with their own works of art.

Looking ahead, Target Area Development has an exciting lineup for the Englewood community in February, including the highly anticipated Community Bingo Night, the creative “Hearts & Crafts,” and a special “Enchantment of Love” Dance. These events reflect Target Area Development’s ongoing commitment to providing engaging and enjoyable experiences that bring the community together.

Target Area Development is one of 13 Chicago organizations representing CP4P, a coalition of non-profit organizations focused on gun violence prevention across 27 Chicago neighborhoods.

To learn more about upcoming Light in the Night events, check the calendar here.