Our work started with just one word: “lighthouse”

In 1997, two writers set out on a remarkable journey to build a lighthouse for others like them: people who were passionate about writing, yearning for a supportive community, and eager to connect with kindred spirits. This "lighthouse" symbolizes a safe harbor, a beacon of hope, and a place to call home. From the seed of that one word, "Lighthouse," we've grown into a thriving and inclusive community of thousands, transcending geographical boundaries to illuminate the world with the magic of storytelling. We've reached a point where we ask ourselves, "What more can our community achieve, if we take things one word at a time?"

The answer to that question is crystal clear to us:

Create: We can create an even more expansive and welcoming community of writers. Whether you reside near our new home on York Street or in a different part of the world, you can find a family at Lighthouse that is ready to support you and grow with you. Our mission is to break down financial barriers, and with the support of thousands of individuals, we can offer over $120,000 in tuition assistance and free programs throughout the year.

Inspire: We have the power to inspire the next generation of writers and readers. Imagine a young person dipping their toe into the world of creative writing at one of our free arts programs in dozens of schools and community centers. Once they discover the magic they can create on the page, they can embark on a journey through our summer camps, school-year writing groups, and even have their work published in our annual youth anthology.

Provide: Our commitment extends to providing platforms for voices that have been marginalized for far too long. Through dedicated programs such as Writing in Color and Queer Creatives, and through partnerships with organizations like Sacred Voices, we are dedicated to centering people of color, LGBTQIA+ writers, and Indigenous artists, creating an inclusive space where their voices can shine.

Write: Writing, we believe, can help us pen new chapters and even write entirely new books. Writing is a form of healing, and in challenging moments, simply putting pen to paper can be liberating. Our free workshops reach out to people experiencing homelessness, cancer survivors and their caregivers, healthcare workers, veterans, and many more, providing a safe haven for self-expression and connection. This transformative work is compiled in our annual community anthology, allowing us to hear each other's unique perspectives and deepen our connection with one another.

Please consider making a donation to Lighthouse today. Just as our founders set out to build a lighthouse for writers, we need your help to keep our light shining brightly. Your generosity will enable us to continue creating, inspiring, providing, and writing—a mission that touches countless lives.