I’m a big believer in building the community around you. When you pour into your community, it creates a place where everyone can thrive.
In this blog, I want to introduce you to one of my favorite charities, the Lighthouse Youth Center. With five locations throughout the Milwaukee area, this organization is playing a vital role in supporting our city’s next generation.
Transforming Young Lives Across Milwaukee
Established in 2005, the Lighthouse Youth Center provides a safe and central location for young Milwaukeeans with a place to grow, learn, and come together. In the past twenty years, they have provided a safe space for over 100,000 kids.
This organization offers a variety of activities and support, including art, culture, computer, and finance classes, a Homework Club, job preparedness and partnerships, daily devotions, and regular Bible Study. Each young person also has an opportunity to participate in mentorship and service projects throughout the year.
Milwaukee Campuses Making a Difference
Serving primarily young people ages 10-18, the center provides free access to structured programming at five different locations throughout the area:
- Garden Homes Campus (2475 W Roosevelt Dr.)
- Havenwoods Campus (5641 N 68th St.)
- Polonia Campus (1132 W Oklahoma Ave.)
- Appleton Campus (820 W College Ave.)
- The Bridge MKE Campus (3203 S 76th St.)
During the school year, each location operates after-school hours (typically 3:00-7:00 p.m.) Each one also offers summer programming that runs 12:00-5:00 p.m. on weekdays. While each location offers a different schedule of activities, they all follow the Lighthouse model of blending recreation, education, and spiritual guidance to support and mentor their participants.
Supporting the Center Through Celebration
The center is funded through the support of sponsorships, donations, and events like the Jim Haag Memorial Bowling Fundraiser, the Appleton Golf Outing, the Jim Gaugert Sr. Memorial Golf Outing, and the Reaping the Harvest Benefit Dinner.
I am honored to be one of the supporters of the 19th Annual Lighthouse Youth Center Benefit Dinner this year! Taking place on Friday, October 3rd at Discovery World in Milwaukee, it’s a fun evening of food and fellowship, with exciting silent auctions and raffles – all to support an incredibly worthwhile cause.

How You Can Make a Difference
The Lighthouse Youth Center thrives through community support. If you want to get involved, there are several ways to do it, such as:
- Volunteer your time as a mentor, tutor, or program assistant
- Host a Wishlist drive at your work or church
- Donate to help provide resources and activities for participants
- Attend events like the upcoming October gala
- Spread awareness by following and sharing their content on social media
The impact of your support extends far beyond a single afternoon or donation. By investing in Lighthouse Youth Center, you help create lasting change in the lives of young people throughout Milwaukee.
For more information about Lighthouse Youth Center’s programs, locations, or upcoming events, visit the website or follow the organization on Instagram or Facebook to stay connected with its inspiring work. You can also reach out to me. I’m always happy to connect others with this wonderful local charity!
Image Source: Lighthouse Youth Center Facebook