MONTANA – The statewide initiative, “Two Lights Montana”, aimed to encourage Montanans to a year of learning, civic participation and community service for America’s 250th birthday. 

The initiative was inspired by Paul Revere’s ride and the two lights signal from the Old North Church in 1775. 

May 4 marked the first day of the initiative and organizers said it will extend into December, and aimed to uplift with learning, engagement and serving.

Montanans were encouraged to learn about American history by visiting landmarks such as the Montana Heritage center, local history museums or other historical sites across the state. Historical texts were encouraged as reading material as well. 

As a part of engagement in the initiative, Montanans were invited to participate in local government public meetings, in person or online. This included city and county commissions, school boards,. Or legislative Interim committee meetings.

To serve in the Two Lights Initiative, Montanans were asked to participate in volunteer opportunities.  The initiative established “Montana Makes a Difference Day” to dedicate time to volunteer at a local food bank, church, or other organization.  The specific date is October 26, but Montanans can make a difference no matter the day. 

Other opportunities to engage in service will include Veterans Day in November and the Wreaths Across America event in December.

“At its core, Two Lights Montana is designed to bring Montanans together. To help us promote and document this initiative, we are asking all Montanans to participate in each phase of Two Lights Montana and then document their experiences on social media,” Officials shared on the America’s 250th in Montana website.

Organizers asked participants to share their photos, stories and summaries of the engagement with the Two Lights Initiative.  Anyone can share by using the hashtag #TwoLightsMT and tagging the Montana 250 and Serve Montana Facebook pages.