Lighthouse Foundation of Chicagoland is a Black LGBTQ+-led, multiracial social justice organization that advances justice for Black LGBTQ+ people across Chicagoland through empowerment, education, and entertainment.
We envision a Chicagoland where Black LGBTQ+ people are safe, resourced, empowered, liberated, and flourishing.
New at LF
New at LF
We’re Hiring!
Lighthouse Foundation seeks a Communications Generalist and Grant Writer to assist with organizational communications.
A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Black LGBTQ+ Chicagoans face a syndemic of violence, poverty, substance misuse, and HIV crises that are deeply rooted in systemic racism, economic disenfranchisement, and inequitable access to resources. These challenges are not isolated; they compound and intersect, creating urgent barriers to health, safety, and economic mobility.
We developed a Holistic Wellness Model that informs all of our programming to break this cycle. Grounded in research and community insight, this model is built on three interconnected domains:
Economic Wellness: Economic Wellness is key to our long-term stability. Through workforce development, skill-building, and entrepreneurial support, we create pathways to financial security and empower our community to drive systemic change.
Spiritual Wellness: Healing and connection are essential to our liberation. We create spaces that combat social isolation, address religious trauma, and promote mental well-being, helping us reclaim spirituality on our own terms and build strong, affirming communities.
Physical Wellness: We face systemic barriers to healthcare and safety. Our programs provide access to affirming medical care, violence prevention resources, and sexual health services, including HIV/STI testing, prevention, and linkage to care — ensuring we can thrive physically and holistically.
Our Programs
Black LGBTQ+ Caucus (BQC)
Culturally grounded, joy-driven programming that builds connection, identity, and leadership among Black LGBTQ+ individuals. Through events like Pride Skate Party, Black LGBTQ+ Beach Day, and Self-Care Recharge, BQC creates affirming spaces for healing, rest, and community resilience.
Black Queer Equity Index (BQEI)
The first Black LGBTQ+-led workplace equity tool in the U.S., the BQEI supports nonprofit organizations with accountability tools, report cards, and workforce development to advance equity across the sector.
Coalition of Accomplices for Racial Equity (CARE)
A values-based network of individuals, businesses, and faith communities advancing Black LGBTQ+ liberation through building community and the pursuit of justice.
HIV Testing, Linkage to Care, Counseling and Social Service Navigation (HIV TLC & SSN) Free, culturally competent HIV/STI testing, prevention, and care navigation, paired with social service support to address the broader structural conditions impacting Black LGBTQ+ health.
Upcoming Events
Recent Blog Posts
Read inspiring stories of empowerment and justice as we celebrate our achievements and keep you informed about our ongoing efforts to foster Black LGBTQ+ liberation in Chicagoland.
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Our Current Funders
