Center researchers studied data from Lighthouse and local and federal sources and found the following:

Return on Investment: For every $1.00 spent by Lighthouse, an additional $1.62 was generated in economic activity and benefits to youth and families assisted, as well as to the State of Ohio’s economy.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Lighthouse provided $367.25 million in net benefits over the seven years studied (benefits minus costs for that period).

Lighthouse leaders say the analysis confirms that an investment in Lighthouse services for young people pays off in a stronger community, and that when people reach their potential, everyone benefits.

“For more than 50 years, Lighthouse has helped young people heal and achieve success. The research by the Economics Center is the first to show the far-reaching impact of our services on the economy and our community. The numbers quantify the substantial benefits of an investment in Lighthouse,” said Paul Haffner, President & CEO of Lighthouse Youth & Family Services.

“The Alpaugh Family Economics Center is so proud to help this wonderful organization articulate its impact on our community. We all know Lighthouse has had a profound effect on the individuals they serve, but an important part of their story—the impact their work has had on all of us in the community— has not been told before now. Quantifying nonprofits’ impacts on our larger community is part of the Center’s #WorkThatMatters area of specialization, and we’re happy to have partnered with Lighthouse Youth and Family Services on this project,” said Center Executive Director Dr. Julie Heath.