Alvin Helms, who has more than 35 years of experience in ministry and leadership roles in nonprofit and community organizations, has been named Chief Executive Officer of Bellingham-based Lighthouse Mission Ministries.
“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,” said board chairman Marty VanDriel. “We’re excited to have Alvin join the Mission in this full-time leadership position to help us grow and better serve our neighbors. We also acknowledge with gratitude the many years of service of our previous CEO, Hans Erchinger-Davis. We pray that the Lord will continue to bless all our staff members as they work to heal homelessness in Whatcom County.”
“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.”
Before coming to Bellingham, Helms served as board president for Tacoma Rescue Mission, then as its Chief Operating Officer, before returning to pastoral ministry at a local Whatcom County church. He has a Doctor of Ministry in strategic leadership from Corban University, and a master’s degree in social ethics from Yale University.
“At the Lighthouse Mission, we will keep our focus on healing homelessness through Christ’s power and love,” Helms said. “This faith-based approach will continue to provide hope, healing, and help for many friends and neighbors in the days ahead.”
About Lighthouse Mission Ministries
Founded in 1923, Lighthouse Mission Ministries provides a comprehensive range of services for people experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County. The Christian nonprofit operates a 24/7 emergency shelter in Bellingham and provides long-term residential recovery programs, workforce development, case management, and other support designed to help people move toward stability and independence. Learn more at thelighthousemission.org.