FLINT, MI -- A local nonprofit is hosting a summer outdoor movie night series, and they're looking for ideas on what to show.
Communities First, Inc., a nonprofit that has in addition to other projects focused on bringing arts and culture to underserved portions of the community, began the movie night program last year when it held one outdoor screening of the animated film "Rio" on the lawn behind Flint City Hall.
Glenn Wilson, president and CEO of Communities First, said the night was a success and this year they're planning on holding one outdoor movie a month between June and September of 2015. "We just piloted it to see what the interest was going to be and the community said they wanted it more after we did our surveys," Wilson said.
Part of the planning process is figuring out what movies to show. Wilson said the movie nights are intended to be family events, so movies should be something parents can bring their children to.
They're looking for community input on what to show.
"We'll get a bunch of ideas, and then we'll probably do a vote, and let the community vote on it," Wilson said. Those who want to share their ideas can vote by emailing the organization at info@communitiesfirstinc.org, posting a suggestion on their Facebook page, or sharing an idea on Twitter. (You can also share your ideas in the comments below.)
Some people, Wilson said, have suggested having one movie be a romance for a romantic date night.
Wilson said the movies will most likely be shown again behind City Hall, but that they're still working through paperwork. He said they have alternate places picked out in case City Hall falls through.
Attending the movies is free, and Communities First, Inc. also gives out free popcorn, candy, and refreshments.
More than 200 people showed up to the inaugural movie night last year, Wilson said, setting up lawn chairs well before the movie started, projected onto a 25-foot screen. He said they also offered music prior to the movie and that people were dancing.
"We're all about building an atmosphere where it's a culture of families participating together," he said. "We want to make sure we have something where the whole family can come."
What's your idea for a good outdoor family movie? Tell us in the comments below.