Lighthouse: Illuminating Hope for Lincoln’s Teens
An interview with Pete Allman by Jacque Genovese
Amidst the daily rhythm of life in Lincoln, stands a beacon of hope for teenagers navigating the challenging waters of adolescence. Lighthouse, founded in 1990 by the visionary trio of Peter and Maureen Allman alongside Jim Perry, has been steadfast in its mission to provide a safe harbor for teens in need. As Lighthouse prepares to mark its 35th anniversary next year, we asked Pete what his dreams are for the future.
How did Lighthouse get started?
Pete: I feel we all come into the world a certain way. I came into the world with a heart of wanting to help people, especially teens. I always wanted to work with adolescents, from my early days at my church's Senior High youth club and at a boys' group home. However, it was when I went to work at The Covenant House in New York City during the late 80s that crystallized my purpose in Lincoln.
What are some of the concerns youth are dealing with today that weren’t issues 30 years ago?
Pete: Social media and changing family dynamics have reshaped the landscape of adolescent experiences. In addition, there's a greater awareness and openness to discuss mental health concerns that weren’t talked about 10 years ago, much less 30 years ago. Teens are more able to say they have anxiety issues or are feeling depressed. This is good because our team at Lighthouse can work with them more closely and provide the support
they need.
“Love is our greatest change agent.”
At the heart of Lighthouse's endeavors are the teens themselves — resilient souls emerging from challenging backgrounds, often being the first in their families to achieve a high school diploma. Recognizing the risk many face of not graduating, Lighthouse becomes a steadfast presence in their lives, offering not just support but a nurturing family environment. From tracking their school attendance and grades to providing tutoring and mentorship, Lighthouse embodies the transformative power of love and kindness to help them become successful adults.
What is Lighthouse doing to prepare teens for a successful future?
Pete: Lighthouse continues to innovate and expand its impact. When we first started the program it was to help kids graduate and get their four-year degree or two-year degree. But we found that those weren’t always a good match. One significant initiative is our Trades and Industry Program, launched 18 months ago to equip teens with practical skills in fields like concrete work, trucking, and manufacturing. Businesses have eagerly partnered with us, recognizing the potential of these young individuals. This program not only provides viable career paths but also addresses the cycle of poverty by offering well-paying opportunities. Our kids are loving this and so are the businesses.
Will Lighthouse be expanding its facilities for these programs?
Pete: We started out doing the training at the trades businesses because we didn’t have the space. Lighthouse is currently renting part of a building on West A Street for the Trades and Industry Program. Trade professionals from Lincoln like electricians, plumbers, and manufacturing workers will come to our location to instruct the teens. This move will streamline our operations and allow for enhanced collaboration with partnering businesses, fostering a more immersive learning environment for the teens.
How can people get involved with Lighthouse?
Pete: Knowing about Lighthouse is not just about being informed; it's about being part of a collective effort to uplift the next generation. Whether through volunteering time and expertise or making financial contributions, there are myriad ways individuals can support Lighthouse's mission. From mentoring programs to donations earmarked for specific initiatives like the Trades Program, every act of kindness fuels the beacon of hope that is Lighthouse.
We have people who share their passion with our teens. For example, we have a woman who likes to sew, so she has provided several sewing machines and comes in each week to teach the teens how to sew. A former teacher teaches ACT prep classes. We have an instructor who teaches Spanish. We also have people who volunteer to bring snacks for our 30 kids which are provided every day. We never turn down dessert if anyone wants to come and serve and meet the teens.
Lighthouse remains steadfast in its commitment to guiding teens toward brighter futures, one heart at a time.
You Can Make A Difference
Lighthouse stands as a testament to the power of compassion and resilience. As a nonprofit, Lighthouse receives a portion of funding from United Way but the rest is raised through gifts from donors. These funds can go directly to one of the many programs at Lighthouse, such as:
Trades and Industry Program
Tutoring and After-school Programs
Mentoring Program
Recreational Program
Food Program
Your gift can be directed to a specific program or make a general donation to support all of the programs at Lincolnlighthouse.org/donate.
You can also donate to Lighthouse through Give to Lincoln, May 1-30, 2024.