On Lighthouse

It’s Colorado Gives Day. And you know what I’m gonna point at: The Lighthouse Writers Workshop. And I’m gonna be unremittingly corny in doing so.

First, the personal stuff: A lot of you know that it’s been a crazy few years for me and the kids. It’s been a tough time, I ain’t gonna lie. Not as tough as a lot of people have it, don’t get me wrong, but tough enough there were times I wasn’t sure we were stay afloat. But we did. Things are getting better every day, and a lot of that has to do with Lighthouse. They support writers, and I don’t mean in some vague way: I mean by keeping a number of us above water, with food on the table and a roof over our heads.

And then there’s the intangible stuff: Having a community where literature matters. An amazing community. This ain’t some sniping, status anxious, academic program. (Which is not to say that all academic programs are like that, but you know what I mean.) These are some of the best people I’ve ever met, and smartest. Every day I have the opportunity to collaborate with some of the finest writers working, and to pass on a little of what I’ve learned to the next wave of ‘em.

There’s not a faculty or staff member or student that I’m not proud to call a friend. That’s not to say we all agree on much. Like on everything else, my ideas on writing can be, shall we say, slightly off center. But there’s room for me, room for everyone. And room for beginning writers to pick and choose different philosophies.

And there’s the other stuff they do. The outreach programs to the homeless and under-served populations. The young writers’ programs, with financial aid opportunities. The Book Project, to help guide writers through that first novel.

I always tell people that there’s only two things in life that I really take seriously: My family – with my kids at the front of that – and my work. The rest of the world I’ll let y’all bicker about. I may chime in now and then, but really, I don’t give a shit.

My family. My work.

And Lighthouse.

Every time I email the founders, Andrea Dupree and Michael Henry, I try to tell them how much what they’ve built means to me. To the point where I’m pretty sure I embarrass the hell out of them.

But I don’t give a shit. They’ve given me more capability to work, and to take care of my kids. Lighthouse has made me a better writer and a better person, and I don’t know what else you can say but that. It means the world to me.

So anyways, Lighthouse is a non-profit. And today is Colorado Gives Day. So why don’t you do that.

If I haven’t sold you yet, this is their mission statement:

The Lighthouse Mission

The mission of Lighthouse Writers Workshop is to provide the highest caliber of artistic education, support, and community for writers and readers in the Rocky Mountain Region and beyond. We strive to ensure that literature maintains its proper prominence in the culture, and that individuals achieve their fullest potential as artists and human beings.

To achieve this mission, Lighthouse has identified seven goals:

Lighthouse attracts literary types of all ages and from all walks of life, inviting them to connect with our programming and community, both to enrich their art and enrich their lives.
Lighthouse provides a lifelong educational environment that fosters the artistic, intellectual, and personal growth of its community and provides continuing support as they embark on successful careers and productive lives as artists and citizens.
Lighthouse continually elevates its educational and artistic standards, remaining open and responsive to changing conditions in the worldwide literary arts scene.
Lighthouse attracts and retains talented and renowned faculty members in all disciplines by providing a collaborative work environment and involving them fully in the artistic and educational life of the community.
Lighthouse upholds its commitment to a diverse community by nurturing an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming environment .
Lighthouse takes an active role in preserving the future of the literary arts by providing exemplary arts education programs, encouraging its members and youth to serve as advocates for the literary arts in society.
Lighthouse tirelessly promotes the belief that writing and reading create a deep understanding of ourselves and others, and thereby encourages compassion and empathy in our society.

Our Organizational Values

Accessibility

Lighthouse welcomes all people who want to learn more about writing, no matter their age, experience, or education. It’s important to our vision and mission that we keep our offerings affordable and our facilities convenient for all community members.

Collaboration

Writing is often seen as a solitary art; however, all writers need the inspiration and support of others. Our workshops engage students, teachers and peers in deeply collaborative relationships. We seek opportunities to explore other arts and media with regional and national partners.

Creativity

We explore emerging genres, foster innovation, and encourage experimentation.

Community

Writing and reading are primarily solitary pursuits. Lighthouse provides space and spirit for fellowship among working and aspiring writers. We offer readers unique ways to discover the writer’s way. We invite everyone who values arts and culture to explore the written word. And we support the vibrancy and diversity of the Colorado artistic culture.

Discovery

We believe that writing empowers greater understanding of self and others and thereby encourages compassion and empathy in our society.

Excellence

Lighthouse is dedicated to the supporting the highest potential of each writer, whatever his or her goals and talents. We are committed to increasing awareness of local and national authors producing high quality work.