Lighthouse Youth Center (LYC) is an after-school and summer youth program that serves youth between the ages of 10 and 18 who are living under the poverty level in Milwaukee. It has three campuses: Havenwoods (68th & Silver Spring, majority black or African American students); Garden Homes (25th & Roosevelt Dr., majority black or African American students); and its newest location in Polonia opened in May 2020 (majority Hispanic or Latino students).
LYC is a safe place for youth to go after school and be supported and encouraged mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Participating youth interact with loving and caring adults who serve as positive mentors in their lives. Each day, through mandatory homework time students get assistance with their academic assignments. Students also participate in devotion time to learn the Gospel of Jesus.
Primary Focus: Youth Ministry – after-school and summer leadership development
Requesting Funding for "Plan, Prep, Prepare and Partner"
Program Budget: $300,000 (the program is $50,000 short of reaching its goal)
Operating Budget: $850,100
Lutheran Affiliation: WELS
Programs: LYC focuses on recreational time, homework assistance, and sharing Jesus with young people. Through past efforts, LYC staff became aware that there is fear and lack of knowledge among students about the kitchen, cooking, and food choices. LYC's dream is to educate and transform the approach to meal and snack planning, cooking, and eating with LYC youth, their families, and community members in the three neighborhoods served. LYC has observed that most youth have little knowledge, education, or training when it comes to food choices. Increased programming around food preparation and healthy food choices will be transformational and will lead to healthy lifestyles.
Who is Served: This program will impact 900 youth and their families each year.
Location: 5641 N. 68th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53218
Website: https://www.lighthouseyouthcenter.com