About Us
Building core values in youth and connecting them
to the opportunities that change everything.
Our Story
Where the LIGHT Foundation began, and where it’s headed.
The LIGHT Foundation was founded in 2016 by the Cockerham family and close friends, united by a shared mission: to generate leadership and development opportunities for today’s youth. Building on decades of involvement in youth-focused organizations, we created the Foundation with a distinct purpose — to collaborate with like-minded nonprofits while producing our own programs and advantages for young people.
In 2020, the Foundation expanded into the virtual space to explore new, impactful ways to create life-changing opportunities for youth. In 2021, we launched LIGHT Box Productions, producing original video, web, and social media content alongside philanthropic event management — expanding and strengthening our impact for youth-forward organizations across the country.
What “LIGHT” Means
Five principles that guide everything we do.
Leadership
We cultivate youth development and authentic learning through real opportunities to lead — building the personal responsibility, self-discipline, and confidence that young leaders carry for life.
Inspiration
Empowering a positive, successful mindset in the youth of today can fundamentally change the landscape of tomorrow — one spark of encouragement can set the course of an entire life.
God
We believe that a belief in God guides morality and character, giving young people a sense of true identity and being — a steady foundation to stand on as they find their way in the world.
Humanity
Humanity represents a constant progression toward universal harmony and enlightenment — promoting human liberty, progress, education, and service in every community we touch.
Tradition
The link to our past and our hope for the future lies in honoring the very things that have shaped, and continue to shape, our world — and passing their meaning on to the next generation.
Mission · Vision · Values
Mission
To build core values in youth and connect them to opportunities that will enrich their lives.
Vision
To create a generation of successful youth by providing life-changing opportunities.
Values
Leadership · Inspiration · God · Humanity · Tradition
Board of Directors
Our Team
Together, We Carry the LIGHT Forward
Discover how you can support our mission — or partner with the Foundation to serve more young people.