About Us

Learning to speak English is one of the most critical steps to securing good employment in the United States.

Lighthouse Charities places high value on this important skill, and provides one hour of ESL classes to each full-time employee as part of their paid workday.

This is a requirement for each client in our program, as English acquisition is one of the most critical steps to securing good employment, and progressing towards self-sufficiency.

Because of daily classes, trusted teachers and volunteers, and the continuous focus on learning to communicate in English with our staff and each other, clients find success at speaking and understanding English at a much higher rate than they would on their own.

The Hydroponics Healing Garden at Lighthouse Charities is the first of its kind! This program provides work experience and training to a population of whom the majority are already experienced farmers, creating a solid pathway for refugees to train and become employed with certifications and small business opportunities.

The produce grown in these gardens directly supports at-risk families by providing fresh fruits and vegetables as supplemental nutrition to those who often cannot afford to acquire such important food sources.

The hydroponics program will also provide multiple streams of revenue for lighthouse charities to aid in organization self-sufficiency.

In addition, and perhaps most importantly, gardening is proven to provide healing from trauma and PTSD. Research shows that hope and happiness are consistent byproducts of working in the Earth. Fostering growth in plants reciprocates to the individuals who care for them.

Because of cultural differences or language acquisition challenges, the pathway to begin healing is not always attainable for refugees. We hope to provide a significant start towards emotional and mental wellness to the individuals who participate in this program.

Rose Creek Farm is more than just a garden—it’s a transformative workforce training program that empowers refugees with practical skills, meaningful employment, and a renewed sense of purpose. Rooted in sustainable farming practices, the farm teaches participants techniques such as farm-to-table cultivation, vermicomposting, greenhouse growing, and the care of over 100 chickens, all while producing nutrient-rich crops and fresh flowers.

Through hands-on experience in every aspect of farm operations, refugees gain confidence, develop valuable job skills, and begin healing from the trauma of displacement. Rose Creek Farm offers a peaceful, restorative environment where individuals can reconnect with the land, nurture growth, and cultivate hope—both in the soil and in their own lives. It’s not just about farming—it’s about fostering resilience, dignity, and opportunity.

Frosted Bakery is a delicious extension of our workforce training programs, offering hands-on experience in the culinary arts for refugees rebuilding their lives. From baking artisan breads and pastries to learning customer service and kitchen operations, participants gain real-world skills in a supportive environment. More than just a bakery, Frosted is a place where confidence rises, careers begin, and hope is baked into every batch.

Lighthouse Charities operates a full-service client choice market, which provides culturally specific food with religious sensitivity to our underserved segment of society.

Not only does the market provide desperately needed food to clients and families, but also to feed insecure families in our community in a dignified shopping experience.

Fresh produce grown at Lighthouse Charities’ gardens, as well as fresh baked breads and other items produced at Frosted bakery, help to sustain the needs of both the Corner Market and the clients it serves.

In addition, The Corner Market also provides clients at Lighthouse Charities an additional job training program specific to grocery and retail environments.

Our Linen Reclamation Program is a transformative workforce training initiative that breathes new life into discarded hotel linens. By repurposing rejected linens into high-quality cleaning rags for custodial work, we not only reduce waste but also create a sustainable, hands-on learning experience for individuals entering the workforce for the first time. This innovative program offers essential job skills, such as time management, attention to detail, and teamwork, all while empowering refugees and displaced individuals to take the first steps toward self-sufficiency. It's more than just a job; it's an opportunity to rebuild lives, support the environment, and offer a bright, sustainable future.