Lighthouse Mission Ministries has named interim CEO Alvin Helms as its permanent president and CEO. Helms brings more than 35 years of ministry and nonprofit leadership experience to the Bellingham organization. (Photo: Lighthouse Ministries)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — After serving as interim CEO, Alvin Helms will lead Lighthouse Mission Ministries as its permanent president and CEO. Helms brings more than 35 years of experience in ministry, nonprofit leadership and community service to the Bellingham organization.
The nonprofit announced Helms’ appointment Oct. 13, saying the board selected him to lead its efforts to address homelessness in Whatcom County.
“The Board of Lighthouse Mission Ministries is very thankful for the leadership that Alvin Helms has provided to our team in the role of Interim CEO these past months,” board Chairman Marty VanDriel said.
VanDriel said the board looks forward to Helms’ leadership as the organization works to expand its ability to serve people experiencing homelessness. He also recognized former CEO Hans Erchinger-Davis for his years of service.
Helms said he intends to build on the organization’s more than century-long history of serving people in need.
“I hope to continue the great work that has been done for over 100 years by the staff, donors, and community partners of the Lighthouse Mission,” Helms said. “Being there for our neighbors in their times of need is a privilege that I do not take for granted.”
Helms Brings Nonprofit and Ministry Leadership Experience
Before joining Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Helms served as board president and chief operating officer of Tacoma Rescue Mission. He later returned to pastoral ministry at a church in Whatcom County before taking the interim leadership position at Lighthouse Mission.
His academic background includes a Doctor of Ministry in strategic leadership from Corban University and a master’s degree in social ethics from Yale University.
Helms said the organization’s faith-based mission will remain central to its work.
“At the Lighthouse Mission, we will keep our focus on healing homelessness through Christ’s power and love. This faith-based approach will continue to provide hope, healing, and help for many friends and neighbors in the days ahead.”
Alvin Helms
Lighthouse Mission Provides Shelter and Recovery Services
Founded in 1923, Lighthouse Mission Ministries provides services for people experiencing homelessness throughout Whatcom County.
The Christian nonprofit operates a 24-hour emergency shelter in Bellingham and offers long-term residential recovery programs, workforce development, case management and other services intended to help people move toward stability and independence.
The appointment places Helms at the helm of an organization with a longstanding role in addressing homelessness in the community.
More information about Lighthouse Mission Ministries and its programs is available at thelighthousemission.org.
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