Lighthouse
About Lighthouse
At Lighthouse in Lincoln, students can walk into an after-school space that has a snack, an evening meal, tutoring, mentoring, counseling, recreation, and room to breathe. That matters because it gives middle and high school youth a place where school support and real adult care show up together, after the last bell. For donors, the appeal is straightforward: this is a place built around helping young people feel safe, stay connected, and keep moving toward graduation.
Lighthouse stands out for how practical its support is. A student might get study help one day, a meal every weekday, a restorative circle, or a real introduction to trades through TIPP. The throughline is simple, a setting where belonging and school success are not treated like separate goals.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
After-school program
Provides a safe, supervised, and nurturing environment for middle and high school youth Monday through Friday, twelve months a year.
Tutoring and academic support
Offers study hours, one-to-one tutoring, computer access, and coordination with school personnel to support attendance, academic performance, and behavior.
Food program
Provides an afternoon snack and an evening meal Monday through Friday, twelve months a year.
Enrichment activities
Offers workshops, career exploration field trips, camping, arts and theatre activities, and other learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Recreational activities
Provides structured recreation such as sports, basketball, pool, and card, board, and video games.
Counseling and mentoring
Provides caring adults, mentoring, and counseling as part of the services offered to youth.
Trades & Industries Pathways Program (TIPP)
Introduces students to real-world experiences, industry-recognized certifications, hands-on learning, and career connections in trades and industries.
Restorative practices and alternative suspension support
Uses restorative circles, mediation, and youth mentoring and supervision for youth referred by schools, probation, Diversion, and the community.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
Promotes the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of adolescents through a community-based after-school program for youth in middle and high school.
Who they serve
Middle and high school students in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Their impact
- 563 unduplicated youth were served during 10,044 visits.
- 3,968 evening meals were served to 308 unduplicated youth.
- 2,301 snacks were served to 276 unduplicated youth.
- 1,114 units of enrichment activities were provided to 206 unduplicated youth.
- 43 unduplicated youth participated in 263 units of hands-on training in the Trades & Industries Pathways Program, with 511 hours of training.
How your donation helps
- Meals for youth
- Academic support and tutoring
- Caring adults and mentoring
- A safe place for youth to belong and grow
- Field trips and enrichment activities
- Structured after-school programs
Our story
Lighthouse began in 1990 after Peter and Maureen Allman, along with Jim Perry, saw a need for a safe place for teens in Lincoln. Peter Allman had visited a similar facility in New York City called The Covenant House, and Lincoln community members had said the same thing in plain terms, young people needed a place like this. Woods Charitable Fund helped fund the initial needs assessment, the organization started in the Atwood House at 17th and G, later moved across from its current location at 26th and N, and opened a new building in 2008 after a capital campaign.
Need help?
How someone in need can access Lighthouse’s services.
Middle school and high school students are welcome. All programs are free. Youth must be actively attending school or working on a G.E.D., cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and must show respect for the people and property of Lighthouse. Programs are available Monday through Friday after school.
Stories
The people behind the work.
In their words
I liked getting help with school work and being there knowing I’m safe.
I have people outside my family that genuinely care for me.
Lighthouse was a turning point for Bill.
Somos en familia Lighthouse! We are family at Lighthouse.
Events
Youth in Action Prom
Youth participate in etiquette trainings, choose formal wear, ride on a limo bus, attend a formal dinner and dance, and take part in a post-prom lock-in.
Holiday meals
during the holidaysDuring the holidays, Lighthouse board members serve meals to youth, and families are invited to Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ways to help
Concrete needs and volunteer roles Lighthouse has shared.
Volunteer opportunities
- Tutoring
- Youth supervision
- Meal preparation
- Cleaning
- Large maintenance projects
- One-time group volunteering
Recognition & press
Awards & recognition
- Accredited After-School Program
Partners & funders
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
Who can attend Lighthouse?
Middle school and high school students are welcome at Lighthouse.
What services are available each day?
Youth can come for academic support, tutoring, an evening meal, a snack, mentoring, counseling, enrichment activities, and recreation.
How does the Trades & Industries Pathways Program work?
It gives students real-world experiences, industry-recognized certifications, hands-on learning, and connections to careers in trades and industries.
Similar nonprofits
Other children & youth services nonprofits in NE.