Shine the Light is NYSCAA’s annual tribute during Community Action Month each May, created to honor the people who are the heart of Community Action. While Community Action Month highlights the impact of the broader network, Shine the Light gives us the opportunity to pause and hear directly from the staff doing the work every day in communities across New York State.

Through this campaign, we recognize the dedication, compassion, creativity, and perseverance of Community Action Agency staff at every level. From direct-service teams to program leaders and behind-the-scenes support staff, these stories help show what Community Action looks like in practice and why this work matters so deeply.

Shine the Light is also a chance to celebrate the people whose work often happens quietly, but whose impact is felt in powerful ways every single day. Their stories remind us that Community Action is not only about programs and services. It is about people helping people, building relationships, responding to needs, and creating meaningful change in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

Why Shine the Light Matters

• Elevating Voices: We give CAA staff a platform to tell their own stories in their own words.
• Honoring Commitment: We recognize the dedication and heart it takes to serve communities every day.
• Inspiring Others: These stories highlight the many ways Community Action changes lives across New York State.
• Building Community: Sharing experiences across agencies strengthens connection, pride, and our shared mission.

How It Works

1. Call for Stories: CAA staff are invited to submit a short personal story about their work, their journey, or the impact they have seen through Community Action.
2. Selection: A review panel selects featured stories to highlight during Community Action Month.
3. Spotlight: Selected stories are shared on NYSCAA’s website, social media, and other communications throughout May.

2026 Shine the Light — Now Accepting Submissions

We are now accepting submissions for the 2026 Shine the Light Campaign.

If you are part of New York’s Community Action network, we encourage you to share your story or recognize a colleague whose work deserves to be celebrated. Whether your impact happens on the front lines, behind the scenes, or somewhere in between, your story helps shine a light on the people who make Community Action possible.

We are looking for short stories that reflect the heart of this work, how you got started, what keeps you going, or a moment that reminds you why Community Action matters.

Ready to submit your story for 2026?

Click here to submit your 2026 Shine the Light story.

We look forward to hearing from the incredible people across New York who are helping people and changing lives every day.